Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle
Always perform the Diagnostic System Check before proceeding with these diagnostic
procedures. Refer to
Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle
in Vehicle DTC Information.
Using a Test Antenna
Use a test mast antenna to quickly check for poor vehicle antenna operation.
Unplug antenna lead-in connector from radio receiver and plug a test antenna into
radio. Make sure the test antenna base is grounded to the vehicle chassis and keep
hands off the mast. Check radio reception in an area away from electrical interferences.
Tune to several weak and strong AM and FM stations. If the radio reception improved,
the problem exists with the vehicle antenna and/or lead-in cable. If the reception
is still poor, refer to
Audio System Troubleshooting Hints
.
Antenna Ground Test
Important: Always zero out the DMM before taking a resistance
measurement in order to ensure an accurate reading.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to
Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection
in
Engine Electrical.
- Disconnect the antenna lead-in connector from the radio receiver.
- Measure the resistance from the negative battery cable to the coaxial
cable, outer conductor, connector.
- The resistance measured should be 0.20 ohms or less.
- Test the following when the resistance is greater than 0.20 ohms.
• | Base of the antenna for a poor connection to body ground. |
• | The coaxial cable interconnects for a poor connection or corrosion. |
• | Test for an open or high resistance from the battery negative cable to
the body. Refer to
Circuit Testing
and
Wiring Repairs
in Wiring Systems. |
- After finding and correcting the condition, operate the system in order
to verify the repair.
Antenna Coaxial Cable Testing
Use the appropriate chart and diagram to test the antenna coaxial cable resistances
for the antenna system on the vehicle. Refer to the table when testing the antenna
and/or lead-in cable.
Mast Antenna System