How to Troubleshoot Power Antennas

Having a working stereo system in our vehicles has become a necessity for most of us. We need to listen to traffic reports, the news, our favorite talk show or radio station on the way to work and back home. If your vehicle is equipped with a power antenna, the time will come when something goes wrong, and you may want to locate the problem yourself. Whether your system comes with an automatic or semi-automatic antenna, these steps will guide you through to find the problem. You need very basic understanding of electrical circuits. But if you want to learn basic troubleshooting, this procedure will help you, as well. So, lets start.

Instructions

1

Turn the ignition switch on, and turn on the radio or the antenna switch to activate the antenna. If you can hear the motor running, go to the next step, otherwise go to Step 3.

2

Examine the antenna mast, and look for a possible bend. Remove the antenna assembly if necessary, and check the mast and hose for any damage or dirt that may prevent free movement of the antenna. Some masts can be replaced. Check with your local dealer.

3

Check the power antennas circuit fuse, and make sure it is in good condition.

4

Turn on the ignition switch, but do not start the engine. Turn on the radio, or have an assistant activate the antenna switch. Using a test light, check for voltage at the antenna, and make sure the ground connection is working properly. If you can detect voltage and a good ground, replace the antenna.

5

Inspect the antenna's relay. Turn on the ignition and the antenna switch or the radio to operate the antenna--you might need the help of an assistant. Using a test light, check the relay's incoming voltage and ground connection. Also, test for voltage going from the relay to the antenna. If the relay is receiving voltage and has a good ground connection, but is not sending voltage to the antenna, replace it.

6

Turn on the ignition switch, and check the antenna switchs incoming voltage using a test light. If there is no voltage, check for an open or short at the wire between the switch and the fuse panel.

7

Test for continuity at the switch-on semi-automatic antennas-using a multimeter. Make sure there is continuity in both up and down positions. If there is no continuity, replace the switch.

8

Check the wire running from the antenna switch to the relay for continuity using a multimeter.

9

Turn the ignition switch to the on position. Turn on the radio, and test for feed voltage from the radio to the relay using a test light if you have a fully automatic power antenna. If there is voltage, check the wire for an open or short. If there is no voltage, take the radio to a repair shop for inspection.