Aerial

[Henry52]

I have always had a bad reception on my radio. Checked it with vag-com and it says there is an "open circuit" in the antenna. Can anyone put that into idiot speak.

[Rachel]

Have you ever unscrewed the aerial and replaced it?

[Henry52]

No, but it is a non standard aerial that was fitted to the car when I bought it. I suppose looking back the reception has always been rubbish.

[kieranp]

I had the same problem with my radio, poor FM/ no AM reception. The standard aerial has a amplifier built into the base, the radio is looking for this as it is powered via the aerial lead. If your aerial is non standard it might not have the built in amp hence the "open circuit" message. I fitted a new aerial base yesterday (vw part 1J0035501C £44.17 from dealer) now the radio reception is perfect. Hope this helps

Kieran.

[Henry52]

I just took the aerial apart, and there is a printed circuit in there but it's got burn marks on it. I stuck a metal coat hanger on instead and reception was excellent. So your diagnostics was spot on. I went out to try and find somewhere open, no success, I did manage to get a stone put through my window. Looks like a visit to the dealer for the aerial and auto class for a new screen. But hey, poo happens. Thanks very much for the advice and part number.

[Henry52]

Fitted the aerial today, everything perfect. Thanks again kieranp.