Cars & Vehicles Car Audio

How to Find a Car Antenna

    Locating a Replacement Antenna

    • 1). Refer to your owner's manual for the correct type of antenna you have on your vehicle. The five basic types of antennas include the electric (automatic) antenna that has a motor and and telescoping mast, the static mast, the roof side-mount antenna (found on many foreign cars and trucks), the windshield filament-type and the rubber whip-type (flexible) antenna. Write down the exact specifications of your vehicle: make, model, year and body design. Use a piece of paper and pencil to draw a rough sketch or your antenna's configuration, just in case it happens to be an aftermarket product. Take a picture of it with a camera phone. If possible, remove your antenna and assembly from the vehicle.

    • 2). Go to the parts window of the local dealership and explain what you need to the parts clerk, supplying him with the information. The parts clerk can also visually inspect your vehicle to correctly identify the part and pull it from stock or order it for you.

    • 3). Consult the Internet for your part if you have access to a computer. Find a supply store that specializes in original equipment antennas or one that carries duplicate replacements. Enter your vehicle's statistics in the information boxes provided and click enter. Write down any part ordering number supplied to you on the inventory page. Include your address and phone number on the order form. Note the required method of payment and choose one: check, money order, credit card or PayPal. Add the shipping charges, if required and click to buy.

    • 4). Drive to your local auto parts store. The large franchise parts stores have the largest selection and inventory. Browse the aisles to see if you can buy your antenna from the shelf inventory. Give the parts clerk your vehicle information if you can not see your part displayed. Most parts clerks will visually inspect your vehicle for the correct replacement part. Purchase the part if satisfied with the replacement.

    • 5). Drive to your local dismantling yard, but give priority to dismantling yards that specialize in certain make and model vehicles. You should be able to locate your exact antenna. Take a small box of tools with you if you have to remove your own part. The clerk will give you directions to your salvage vehicle. Remove the part and pay for it at the counter.

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