VW T-Roc Radio Failures Point to Antenna Issues

Having faced a similar situation with my 2019 VW T-Cross, I can share some insights from moderate experience with vehicle electronics and antenna issues. My symptoms matched yours, radio interference, error messages, and complete signal loss. After initial troubleshooting, my workshop discovered the antenna ground connection had deteriorated, causing poor reception and system errors. The repair involved: Testing the car radio signal amplifier, Replacing the faulty antenna assembly, Recalibrating the infotainment system, Clearing stored error codes Total repair cost was 255€, which included parts and labor. The fix completely resolved the audio issues and error messages. To provide more specific guidance for your case, could you share: Whether the issues occur with all audio sources or just radio, If the problems started suddenly or developed gradually, The exact error messages displayed, Whether the issues happen more during vehicle movement The antenna systems are similar between T-Roc and T-Cross models, so identifying these details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced.

Last service was at 75000km and the antenna booster was actually checked during that maintenance. Thanks for the detailed response. The issues occur only with radio functions and FM signal seems particularly weak. The static noise started gradually about 2 weeks ago but has gotten much worse. The error message reads System_Audio_Error_21 and stays on screen until cleared. Problems definitely increase while driving, especially on highways where the signal strength drops completely. Will have the antenna ground connection checked based on your experience. The fact that movement affects it does point toward a connection issue rather than the main unit being faulty.

Thanks for those additional details. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced with my T-Cross, particularly the movement-related issues and error code. The fact that problems worsen at highway speeds strongly suggests a failing antenna ground connection, just like in my case. The antenna booster check during service might have missed deterioration that occurred since then, as these connections can degrade rapidly once corrosion starts. From my repair experience, here are the specific issues the workshop found: Corroded ground point causing intermittent connection, Weakened antenna booster performance due to poor grounding, Static noise increasing with vehicle speed, System_Audio_Error_21 specifically related to signal input issues While the antenna booster was checked during your service, the ground connection itself might need attention. My repair invoice showed the ground point repair cost was minimal compared to replacing the entire unit. Before booking a workshop visit, try this quick test: when stationary, gently wiggle the antenna base while the radio is on. If this causes signal fluctuation, its almost certainly the same ground connection issue I had.

Really appreciate the detailed follow-up and test suggestion. Just tried the antenna wiggle test and sure enough, the FM signal drops completely when moving it. This confirms my suspicion about the antenna ground being the culprit, especially since all other audio sources work fine. Will book the car in next week and ask them to specifically check the ground connection and corrosion points you mentioned. The fact that your repair was straightforward and relatively affordable is reassuring. Its good to know replacing the whole unit probably wont be necessary if the issue is just the connection. The highway problems and error codes matching your experience makes me confident were dealing with the same fault. Hopefully a quick ground repair will resolve the radio interference and poor signal quality just like in your case. Will check back once its sorted to confirm if this fixed it.