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Pinpoint Test B: Poor Reception/Poor Sound Quality/No Sound - Satellite Radio




Information and Entertainment System

Pinpoint Test B: Poor Reception/Poor Sound Quality/No Sound - Satellite Radio

Normal Operation

Digital signals are received by the satellite radio antenna and sent to the Audio Control Module (ACM) , as the satellite radio receiver is built-in to the ACM (Audio Control Module).

A short to ground in the satellite radio antenna typically has no effect on the antenna signal. However, an open in the antenna circuit results in no sound from the satellite radio system. A short to voltage in the antenna circuit can have varying effects on the system.

Obstructions to the antenna line of sight can affect reception, but this is considered normal operation. Possible obstructions include hills, tall buildings, tunnels, and being parked inside a garage. Be sure the vehicle is in a clear area, free of obstructions, before testing satellite radio reception.





This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

- Obstructions to the antenna line of sight

- No channel found in the selected category

- Satellite radio antenna

- Satellite radio antenna cable

- ACM (Audio Control Module)

PINPOINT TEST B : POOR RECEPTION/POOR SOUND QUALITY/NO SOUND - SATELLITE RADIO

NOTICE: Use the correct probe adapter(s) when making measurements. Failure to use the correct probe adapter(s) may damage the connector.

B1 CHECK THE RECEPTION AND CATEGORY FILTER SETTING

- Turn the category filter function off. For additional information, refer to the Owner's Literature.

- Drive the vehicle to an open location, free of obstacles.

- Scan for a good channel.

Does the satellite audio system find a good channel with normal reception?

Yes
The system is operating correctly at this time. The concern was a result of no channel being found in the selected category.

No
GO to B2.

B2 CHECK THE SATELLITE SIGNAL PID (SAT_SIG_STR)

- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: ACM (Audio Control Module) DataLogger.

- Monitor the ACM (Audio Control Module) PID (SAT_SIG_STR).

Does the PID indicate "No Signal"?

Yes
GO to B3.

No
GO to Pinpoint Test I. Pinpoint Test I: The Satellite Radio Is Inoperative/Does Not Operate Correctly

B3 CHECK THE SATELLITE RADIO ANTENNA CABLE RESISTANCE

- Ignition OFF.

- Disconnect: Satellite Radio Antenna Connection At ACM (Audio Control Module).

- Disconnect: Satellite Radio Antenna Cable In-Line Connection At RH Kick Panel.

- Disconnect: Satellite Radio Antenna Connection At Satellite Radio Antenna.

- Measure the resistance of the front satellite radio antenna cable core between the ACM (Audio Control Module) and the satellite radio antenna in-line connection; and between the front satellite radio antenna cable core and shield.

- Measure the resistance of the rear satellite radio antenna cable core between the satellite radio antenna and the satellite radio antenna in-line connection; and between the rear satellite radio antenna cable core and shield.

Is the resistance of each satellite radio antenna cable core less than 2 ohms, and the resistance between the core and shield of each satellite radio antenna cable greater than 10,000 ohms?

Yes
GO to B4.

No
INSTALL a new front or rear satellite radio antenna cable. REFER to Antenna Cable - Satellite Radio . CLEAR any DTCs present. TEST the system for normal operation.

B4 ISOLATE THE SATELLITE RADIO ANTENNA

- Install a new satellite radio antenna. Refer to Antenna- Satellite Radio .

- Operate the audio system in satellite radio mode.

Is the reception OK?

Yes
The concern was caused by an inoperative satellite radio antenna. The system is operating correctly at this time. CLEAR any DTCs present.

No
GO to B5.

B5 CHECK FOR CORRECT ACM (Audio Control Module) MODULE OPERATION

- Ignition OFF.

- Disconnect all the ACM (Audio Control Module) module connectors.

- Check for:
- corrosion

- damaged pins

- pushed-out pins


- Connect all the ACM (Audio Control Module) module connectors and make sure they seat correctly.

- Operate the system and determine if the concern is still present.

Is the concern still present?

Yes
INSTALL a new ACM (Audio Control Module) module. REFER to in Audio Control Module (ACM) - Fusion or Audio Control Module (ACM) - MKZ . TEST the system for normal operation.

No
The system is operating correctly at this time. The concern may have been caused by a loose or corroded connector.