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Viano radio reception problem

Radio reception issue Mercedes Viano 2020 Diesel I'm experiencing a bothersome issue with the radio reception in my Mercedes Viano, 2020 model, with a diesel engine. The vehicle has approximately 18568 km on the odometer. The infotainment system frequently displays an error message related to the radio, and sometimes the audio system becomes completely unresponsive. I've scanned for error codes, and there is one related to a poor FM signal. Based on some research, a defective antenna seems to be the likely culprit. A preliminary cost estimate for repair is around 255€. Has anyone encountered something similar with their vehicle electronics, perhaps related to a weak FM signal or the signal amplifier? Any insights into checking the signal strength or troubleshooting this issue before I commit to the repair would be greatly appreciated.

4 comment(s)

I actually had a similar problem with my Viano. The radio reception was terrible. It turned out to be a faulty antenna amplifier. I think they are pretty prone to it on our vans. Did you check the connections to the antenna base itself? If those are good, the amplifier is the next thing to look at for a poor signal. I think it sits at the base of the antenna.

Thank you for the information. Could you perhaps provide more detail on where specifically the antenna amplifier is located and how to check the connections you mentioned? Is it easily accessible, or does it require dismantling part of the interior? Also, did you experience similar symptoms—specifically, the error message on the infotainment system?

Yes, the error message on the infotainment system was exactly the same. I didn't do the work myself to be honest. But from what I saw, the amplifier is right at the base of the antenna, on the roof. I would recommend going to a workshop. They should be able to diagnose it quickly. If it is the antenna amplifier, the 255€ sounds pretty reasonable.

Thank you for confirming the symptoms and the location. I appreciate the advice, and I think I will take it to a workshop as suggested. It seems that a professional diagnosis is the most efficient way forward. Your experience has been very helpful in understanding the potential cause and ensuring I'm not being overcharged. I'll share the final resolution.

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