Audio System - Poor or Loss of FM Band Radio Reception

File in Section: 08 - Body and Accessories

Bulletin No.: 03-08-44-021

Issue Date: December, 2003

Subject:
Poor or Loss of FM Radio Reception (Perform "Radio Poor Reception" Diagnostics and/or Replace Radio)

Models Affected:
2004 Saturn ION Vehicles 2004 Saturn VUE Vehicles





Built Up To and Including VIN Breakpoints shown.

Attention: Fixed Operations Manager, Parts Manager, Technician

Condition:

Some customers may comment on poor FM radio reception or loss of FM radio stations. Customers may also comment that an FM station will cut out without any warning and then resume operation.

Cause:

The radio (RPO US8/US9) has a mute feature that will turn the volume oft when the radio signal strength is low. This mute feature keeps the radio from having unwanted static noise when a radio station's signal is weak. It has been determined the threshold for this feature is too high causing the mute feature to engage when FM signal strength is still adequate for acceptable radio signal reception.

Correction:

A new radio part number with an improved internal software calibration, along with additional internal hardware, is available to address this condition. Perform "Radio Poor Reception" diagnostics and replace radio after verifying reception concern. (Refer to "Radio Poor Reception" diagnostic procedures and "Radio Replacement" procedures in the appropriate 2004 Saturn Service Manual).

Service Procedures:

1. Perform "Radio Poor Reception" diagnostics in the Entertainment subsection of the Accessories section located in the appropriate 2004 Saturn Service Manual.

2. If concern is still present, replace the radio (refer to the "Radio Replacement" procedures in the appropriate 2004 Saturn Service Manual).

3. After radio replacement, calibrate (configure) radio using Tech2(R) and CANDi module.





Parts Information:

Claim Information:

To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System for R0760 (Radio Receiver - R&R or Replace).





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