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liam_phoenix8

SMAX Radio Failure

My 2009 Ford SMAX diesel has a radio that's completely dead. The infotainment system shows an error message, and there's no audio. My OBD2 reader shows an antenna-related error. Could a defective antenna kill the whole system? Any ideas?

4 comment(s)

manfredmond30

Sounds frustrating! I had a similar problem with my old Opel Insignia. Same symptoms: error message and no radio. Does it get any signal at all, even weak? Have you checked the antenna connection to make sure it's clean and properly grounded? Sometimes corrosion can cause havoc.

liam_phoenix8 (Author)

Thanks for the tip! No signal whatsoever, it's completely dead. Where is the antenna ground located? I'm not really a car expert, so could you explain it simply? Is it easy to get to or do I need to dismantle half the car?

manfredmond30

Complete signal loss points to either a dead antenna or a broken connection. The antenna ground is usually located near the base of the antenna, where it screws into the car body. It's a wire that connects the antenna base to the car's chassis, providing a ground path. On the Insignia, it was a pain to get to because it was under the headliner. Unless you're comfortable poking around, I'd recommend taking it to a workshop. They'll be able to diagnose it properly and fix it without damaging anything. It could be something simple, but better safe than sorry.

liam_phoenix8 (Author)

Thanks, that's really helpful! I suspected it might be more complicated than I thought. I took it to the local garage, and you were spot on! The antenna was indeed defective. They replaced it and cleared the error codes. Cost me 255€, but at least I have my radio back! Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction!

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