How to Fix a Car Antenna
Updated: Mar. 09, 2023Complete this simple fix in about 2 hours.
Fix a stuck power antenna
Photo 1: Unbolt the power antenna and pull it free
Tilt the bottom of the antenna away from the fender and pull the unit down and out. That will loosen the rubber gasket and break the unit free.
Photo 1A: Close-up of antenna wrench
Use the special wrench to remove the bezel that holds the antenna in place.
If your power radio antenna won’t go up and down anymore, the problem is either a burned-out motor or the geared cable inside the mast. Both are easy DIY fixes. You can do the entire repair in about two hours. The parts run about $25 for a new cable/mast, plus the cost of the special wrench. Or, pick up a complete junkyard unit for about $75 (that’s half the price of a new antenna).
First, make sure the motor works. Have a friend turn on the radio and listen for motor noise coming from the antenna area. If it makes noise, it’s a candidate for repair. If not, you’ll have to replace it using the steps we show. Next, order a replacement mast kit from antennamastsrus.com. The kit includes a new geared nylon cable connected to new antenna sections. You’ll also need a special wrench to remove the bezel nut (Photo 1A). DON’T use pliers; you’ll scratch the bezel and the paint. Check an auto parts store for one or order the Steck No. STC21600 (about $18) from amazon.com.
Unscrew the bezel (Photo 1) and remove the antenna retaining bolts. If your power antenna is mounted inside the front fender, remove the wheel-well liner by pulling out the plastic rivets and push-in retainers.
Next disconnect the power and coaxial cable connectors and remove the entire unit from the vehicle (Photo 2). If your antenna doesn’t have a removable coaxial connector, disconnect the power connectors and perform the mast replacement while the unit is still connected to the coaxial cable.
Remove the cover screws from the antenna. Then lift the cover and note the location of the gears, cable spool, washers and idler roller before you remove them. Next, remove old mast (Photo 1). Thread the nylon cable and mast into the spool and reinsert the gears and rollers (Photo 3). Spray all the moving parts with lithium grease. Reinstall the cover, then plug in the power antenna and reinstall it in the fender or trunk.
Required Tools for this Project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- Nut driver
- Side cutter
- Socket/ratchet set
Required Materials for this Project
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.
- Degreaser
- Lithium grease spray
- Plastic gloves
- Replacement mast kit
