Introduction

Fix a stuck power antenna by replacing a burned out motor or bad cable/mast. You can do both in about two hours, and you'll avoid the $50 to $100 dealer service fee. You need only one special tool, an antenna wrench.

Fix a stuck power antenna

If your power radio antenna won’t go up and down anymore, the problem is either a burned-out motor or the geared cable inside the mast. Both are easy DIY fixes.

First, make sure the motor works. Have a friend turn on the radio and listen for motor noise coming from the antenna area. If you hear the motor, it’s a candidate for repair. If not, you’ll have to replace it using the steps we show.

Next, order a replacement mast kit from antennamastsrus.com. The kit includes a new geared nylon cable connected to new antenna sections.

You’ll also need a special wrench to remove the bezel nut. Don’t use pliers; you’ll scratch the bezel and the paint. Check an auto parts store for one, or order the Steck No. STC21600 from amazon.com.

Close-up of antenna wrench

Use the special wrench to remove the bezel that holds the antenna in place.

Close-up of Antenna wrenchTMB Studio