VW Phaeton Key/Radio Issues Linked to Faulty Antenna

Had similar issues with my 2009 VW Touareg V6 TDI. The automotive antenna system was causing multiple problems like yours, weak radio signal, keyless entry failure, and engine start complications. The root cause was corroded connections at the antenna mount base where the wiring harness connects. Water had seeped in through a damaged seal, affecting both the FM antenna and the vehicle antenna module for keyless functions. The repair required: Removal of exterior trim pieces, Replacement of the main antenna assembly, New wiring harness connector, Fresh weatherproof sealing This was more than a simple parts swap. The technician had to properly route the new wiring and ensure all grounds were clean and secure. After repair, all systems returned to normal operation, strong radio reception, working remote entry, and proper engine starting. Given the symptoms match closely, would strongly suggest having the antenna mount and associated wiring checked by a qualified shop. This is not a minor issue as it affects multiple vehicle systems and could potentially leave you stranded if the starting system fails completely.

Thanks for the detailed info about your Touareg repair. My situation sounds identical, with all those signal interference problems and keyless issues. Planning to get it fixed next week. Would you remember roughly how much you paid for the complete repair? Also, curious if you had any recurring issues since the antenna replacement or if the fix has held up well?

Thanks for asking about the costs. Since having the vehicle antenna repaired at the mechanic last month, everything has worked perfectly. The total bill came to 95€, which covered fixing a faulty cable connection at the antenna base. Much simpler than expected, no complete antenna replacement was needed. The radio signal is now crystal clear, and the keyless entry works flawlessly again. All those annoying signal interference issues disappeared after they sorted out the connection problem. What initially seemed like a major antenna repair turned out to be a straightforward fix. The repair has definitely held up well, no recurring issues with any of the systems that were acting up before. The mechanic mentioned these connection problems are fairly common on our VW models, especially as they age. Getting it fixed properly the first time is key.

Yes, I went ahead and had the repair done last week. Took it to a certified VW shop and the issue was exactly what you described, corroded wiring at the vehicle antenna base. Total cost was 280€ for parts and labor, more than your repair since they had to replace the entire antenna assembly. The automotive antenna replacement fixed all the problems, radio reception is perfect now, keyless entry works like new, and no more starting issues. The mechanic showed me where water had damaged the old unit and explained how the new weatherproofing should prevent future signal interference. Much better experience than my previous repair attempt. This shop knew exactly what to check based on the symptoms. Worth every cent to have all systems working properly again. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction with your similar experience.