Audio System - Poor AM Reception/Static
07-079December 5, 2007
Applies To:
2006 Ridgeline - ALL
2007 Ridgeline - From VIN 2HJYK1 ...7H000001 thru 2HJYK1...7H52441 2
Poor AM Reception or Static While Driving Over Bumps
SYMPTOM
The AM radio reception is poor or filled with static. The reception is noticeably worse when driving on rough roads or over bumps.
PROBABLE CAUSE
The AM/FM antenna main lead connectors or the sublead connectors were not properly attached to the wire harness during manufacturing.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Replace the AM/FM antenna main lead and sublead.
PARTS INFORMATION
Sublead:
With Navigation - P/N 39159-SJC-A00, H/C 8674665
Without Navigation -
P/N 39159-SJC-A10, H/C 8674673 Main Lead:
P/N 39160-SJC-A01, H/C 7927924
REQUIRED MATERIALS
EPT Sealer (3T) - P/N 06990-SA5-000, H/C 2086643 (One roll repairs about 10 vehicles.)
TOOL INFORMATION
Pin Removal Tool - T/N 07JAZ-002060A
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
In warranty:
The normal warranty applies.
Failed Part: P/N 39159-SJC-A10, H/C 8674673
Defect Code: 02401
Symptom Code: 03250
Skill Level: Repair Technician
Out of warranty:
Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Parts and Service Manager or your Zone Office. You must request consideration, and get a decision, before starting work.
DIAGNOSIS
Tune the audio unit to an AM station, and drive the vehicle over a rough and bumpy road.
Is there static or poor reception when driving over the rough and bumpy road?
Yes - Go to REPAIR PROCEDURE.
No - The vehicle is OK at this time.
REPAIR PROCEDURE
NOTE:
^ Make sure to attach the sublead and the main lead to the harness with wire ties or electrical tape, and use EPT sealer where shown to prevent rattles, slapping, or other noises.
^ Refer to the following image for the names and locations of the AM/FM antenna leads:
1. Make sure you have the anti-theft codes for the audio system and navigation system (if equipped).
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable, and wait at least 3 minutes before beginning work.
3. Remove the audio unit.
^ Refer to page 23-57 of the 2006-08 Ridgeline Service Manual, or
^ Online, enter keywords AUDIO REMOVAL, then select Audio Unit Removal/Installation from the list.
4. Remove the glove box.
^ Refer to page 20-85 of the service manual, or
^ Online, enter keyword GLOVE, then select Glove Box Removal/Installation from the list.
5. Remove the passenger's dashboard side cover:
^ Pull out the front door trim as needed.
^ Pry up the lower edge of the passenger's dashboard side cover at the notch to release the clip.
^ Gently pull the cover out along the edge to release the clips.
6. Remove the antenna 3P connector and connector C408 from the metal brackets behind the glove box opening.
7. Remove the antenna connector from connector C408 using the pin removal tool, and make sure you disconnect the sublead from the main lead.
8. Cut off the antenna connector on the sublead side, then bend the wire back, and securely tape it to the harness with electrical tape.
9. Cut off the antenna connector at the audio unit then bend the wire back, and securely tape it to the harness with electrical tape.
10. Install the new antenna sublead:
^ Follow the routing of the original antenna sub-lead.
^ Leave about 450 mm of the new antenna sub-lead at the audio unit opening.
^ Cut a 400 x 50 mm piece of EPT sealer, and attach it to the sublead at the audio unit opening.
^ Attach the new antenna sublead to the wiring harness with electrical tape or wire ties every 100 mm (4 inches).
^ Attach the new antenna connector to connector C408.
11. Remove the headliner:
^ Refer to page 20-70 of the service manual, or
^ Online, enter keyword HEADLINER, then select Headliner Removal/Installation from the list.
12. Remove the main lead that runs from the passenger's side A-pillar to the back of the roof.
13. Install the new main lead. Follow the routing of the original main lead, and attach the clips as you move from connector C408 to the AM/FM antenna amplifier.
14. Reinstall all remaining parts.
15. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
16. Enter the anti-theft codes for the audio system and navigation system (if equipped). Reset the clock.
17. Make sure the reception is good by test-driving the vehicle over a rough and bumpy road.
If the reception is still poor or has other issues, substitute these known-good components in this order:
^ Antenna amplifier:
- Refer to page 23-62 of the service manual, or
- Online, enter keyword AMPLIFIER, then select AM/FM Antenna Amplifier Replacement from the list.
^ Antenna:
- Refer to page 20-175 of the service manual, or
- Online, enter keywords REAR ROOF, then select Rear Roof Trim Replacement from the list.
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