Radio Grrrrrrrrrr!

[muzzer79]

I have an infuriating problem with the radio on my E46 coupe. Using the radio normally, it's fine. However, using the radio along with the heated rear window results in major interference - like the aerial has been snapped off.

I'm aware that the aerial runs through the rear window so I assume it's related to this in some way.

Any ideas on what this could be? I don't fancy another attempted shafting from the local BMW stealer.....

[JohnCL]

I've just bought an 01 E46 320d touring. The radio reception is very bad, I haven't tried it with the rear window heating on yet. Is bad reception the norm with these window aerials or should I get the connections looked at? Reception fades when blocked by foliage or buildings just as if the aerial wasn't extended in my old car. This is usually a good reception area.

thanks John

[mat205125]

Buy CD's, forget the shipping forecast or use the wing mirrors?

Seriously though, this is common to a lot of cars that don't have a conventional "coat hanger" aeriel.

Have a chat with a friendly car stereo place and ask about a booster / amplifier.

[Dino D]

The reception is brillaint on my e46 saloon, even better than my honda with super-long pull out jobbie...

[kentmotorcompany]

Im sure this is a fairly comman problem, If your car is out of warranty you may be able to get the dealer to talk BMW into giving you a good will contribution. If not Im sure most independents will have seen this before and know what to do.

[Onetone]

Had exactly this problem on a brand new 330 ci 03 plate - fortunately, the main dealer picked up the fault before I got the car and arranged to have the rear window replaced at my convenience rather than delaying my 1st day collection. New window solved all but, as was done under warranty, have no idea as to cost.

Bottom line - new window will undoubtedly solve the problem.

Got the distinct impression at the time that this was something they find quite a lot - known problem = product recall - yeah, good one, LOL.

However, may be worth asking for a goodwill contribution as suggested above.

[fixedwheelnut]

Most common cause is the rear screen, it gets a high resistance through the aerial.
Before condeming it check the contacts are tight at the amplifier behind the left rear C post trim, you can connect a separate aerial to the lead here to eliminate the rest of the circuit back to the radio.