GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Poor Radio Reception (Check Antenna Lead and Grounds)

Subject:Poor Radio Reception (Check Antenna Lead and Grounds)

Models:2005-2006 Buick Allure (Canada Only), LaCrosse
2006 Chevrolet Impala, Monte Carlo
2004-2006 Pontiac Grand Prix



Condition

Some customers may comment that the radio has poor reception. This condition is more apparent on the AM band.

Cause

This condition may be due to any one of the following causes:

    • The antenna lead at the back glass is not fully seated.
    • Loose or ineffective antenna module ground.
    • Loose or ineffective radio ground.

Correction

To assist in diagnosis, the following steps are provided:

  1. Verify that the antenna lead at the back glass is fully seated.
  2. Check the antenna module ground for effectiveness.
  3. 2.1. Lower the rear of the headliner.
    2.2. Remove the antenna module ground bolt and reinstall.

    Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 3N·m(27 lb in).

    2.3. Install the headliner.
  4. Check the radio ground(s) for effectiveness.
  5. 3.1. Remove the driver side knee bolster.
    3.2. Locate the radio grounds G200 and G202 (Grand Prix, Allure/LaCrosse) or ground G202 (Impala, Monte Carlo) to the right of the steering column.
    3.3. Verify that the ground(s) are tight. The wire eyelet should not move. If the ground appears to be loose, attempt to retighten. If you are unable to tighten the bolt more, remove the bolt and check for metal shavings in the bolt hole. This bolt is self-tapping and when it was originally installed at the plant, metal shaving may have built up inside the hole, preventing the bolt from being fully tightened.
    3.4. Install the driver side knee bolster.

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

N9502*

Ground Repair

0.5 hr**

* This is a unique labor operation number for bulletin use only. This number will not be published in the Labor Time Guide.

** Includes appropriate time for component R&R to gain access.