Audi Q2 Radio Dead: Amplifier & Ground Issues Guide

As someone with moderate experience working on cars, I had a very similar issue with my 2018 Audi Q3. The radio interference problems started gradually, first with poor FM signal reception, then complete audio system failure. After troubleshooting, the main issue was traced to a faulty antenna ground connection and a deteriorated antenna booster unit. The antenna booster had corroded over time, affecting the entire radio reception system. The workshop performed a complete diagnostic check of the vehicle electronics and discovered that moisture had damaged the connection points. The repair involved: Testing the antenna ground connections, Replacing the defective antenna and booster unit, Recalibrating the infotainment system Total repair cost was 255 Euro, including parts and labor. The fix completely resolved the audio issues and error messages. To better assist with your specific case, could you provide: Whether the issue started suddenly or gradually, If you notice reception problems in specific areas only, Whether the error message appears consistently or intermittently, If other electronic systems are affected This information would help determine if your Q2 is experiencing the same antenna-related problems or if there might be other underlying issues.

Last service was completed at 48000 KM. Since the dealership checked all vehicle electronics, I can confirm the antenna booster and ground connections were inspected. The signal strength varies significantly depending on usage. After the initial tests, they found that the FM signal completely drops when the car goes over speed bumps or rough terrain. This seems to point more towards a loose connection rather than a failed component. I wonder if anyone else had similar symptoms that were resolved without a complete antenna replacement? The error messages appear more frequently during cold starts.

I can relate to your findings since my Q3 initially showed similar symptoms with FM signal drops over rough roads. While my case ultimately required a full antenna replacement, a with the same model had an almost identical issue that was resolved with a much simpler fix. The behavior you describe, signal loss over speed bumps and poor signal during cold starts, strongly suggests a loose connection rather than a complete component failure like I experienced. The antenna ground connection points can work loose over time due to vibration and temperature changes. In my research after my repair, I learned these specific symptoms often point to: Loose antenna cable connections at the head unit, Degraded ground strap connections, Corroded contact points in the antenna base Before going for a full replacement, consider having the workshop: Check and reseat all antenna connections, Clean the ground contact points, Test the signal amplifier connections This inspection and reseating of connections typically costs around 50 Euro-80 Euro, significantly less than the 255 Euro I paid for the complete replacement. The cold start correlation is particularly telling, thermal expansion and contraction can affect loose connections more severely, which matches your symptoms perfectly.

Thank you for the detailed response regarding the antenna connections. The inspection cost seems reasonable compared to a full replacement. Since you mentioned checking the ground contact points, I had the workshop do exactly that yesterday. They found significant corrosion at one of the ground points, explaining the intermittent signal strength issues during cold starts. The FM signal problems over speed bumps are still present, though less severe after cleaning the connections. I will monitor this for a week before deciding whether to proceed with the antenna booster replacement. The car radio functionality has improved slightly, but I want to ensure the current fix is sustainable before ruling out other potential issues with the vehicle electronics. If the problems persist, I might need to consider that complete antenna replacement option you mentioned. Will update once I have driven more miles and tested the signal reception under various conditions.