Antenna doesn't work: diagnostic help please

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N

nsvencer

10 Year
Joined
Mar 3, 2015
Threads
5
Messages
53
My 01 LC has an antenna that hasn't functioned from purchase. I'm wondering what is the best way to go about fixing it. The mast is still connected to the motor and won't manually move. The motor does not turn when the switch on the dash is pressed. I'm thinking it is either the motor or the relay. What is the best next step? Is the motor the more likely culprit or the relay? Lastly, is there any option outside of oem that would be a suitable replacement? I've seen some Metra units that claim to fit, but wonder if the wiring will work, antenna will connect, etc. Does replacing the motor mean fishing the antenna lead back to the deck or is there a connection at the motor?

Thanks for the help. Tried searching but only found myriads of mast replacement and none on motor stopping working.
 
The switch is only to set the extended height, and will work only when the radio has told the antenna to go up. So, the signal from the deck controls the antenna, you can not make it extend without the deck/radio on; but when it's up, you can adjust the height with the rocker switch.
There is a plug somewhere. Can't remember if it's at the antenna motor, or just inside - behind the kick panel. And the cable routing and involved fuses vary with MY. The earlier years rely on the Cig-lighter fuse as well as the radio fuse, while the later ones need the 7.5 A Acc fuse. The antenna motor is controlled by the Antenna ECU, which I have never heard fail.
Take off the fender apron and have a look, if you suspect the motor.
 
Ok, so the radio is stock crappy Toyota Nav system and is definitely on and tuned to an FM station. The rocker switch still won't move the antenna. So, sounds like possibly a fuse is bad. My cigarette lighter is working as is the 12v socket next to it, so most likely not that fuse. I'll take a peak at the fuses for sure

I guess its time to pull the deck, have a look around, and do the DVD mod while i'm back there. If that all checks out, I'll pull the tire and fender apron and have a look in there. I was really hoping to avoid replacing the motor as I have a bad feeling its going to cost a ton to go OEM or a bunch of wiring to go aftermarket...

Thanks for the info.
 
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Fuses looked good, so it looks as though I'm going to be diving into this project deeper. I would love to get ride of the power antenna, but having a button that does nothing on the dash will drive me bananas!

Sandroad, I did see that thread but really wanted to fix it with another power option if possible. Thanks for the reply.
 
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