How to Replace a Toyota Power Antenna

After being used for a while, your Toyota power antenna can develop problems with not extending or retracting when turned on or off. The antenna can also have problems, such as being bent or the motor burning out. Toyota power antennas have also had issues with only partially extending or the motor continuing to run. If your power antenna is not functioning properly, you can replace it in about an hour.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Open end wrench
• Screwdriver
• Clean dry cloth

1. • 1

     Unfasten the negative battery cable from the Toyota battery with an open-end wrench to prevent any electrical short while replacing the Toyota's power antenna. Move the cable aside so that it does not come into contact with any metal parts.

   • 2

     Remove the side panel of the Toyota's interior in the front passenger side under the dashboard with a screwdriver to locate where the power antenna enters the vehicle's interior. Follow the coaxial cable from the antenna to where it is joined together with the coaxial cable from the radio.

   • 3

     Unhook the coaxial cable from the radio to the power antenna and then locate the electrical wire that runs from the antenna to the power supply. The Toyota's electrical power supply should be located at the fuse box under the driver's side of the dashboard.

   • 4

     Place a clean dry cloth around the power antenna over the car's fender to prevent any scratches to the paint while you are loosening the nut around the antenna. Use a screwdriver to lift the rubber grommet off the top of the antenna nut.

   • 5

     Unfasten the nut around the antenna mast with an open end wrench and remove the nut. Unbolt the power antenna unit from the interior side wall of the vehicle with an open end wrench and pull the antenna down through the fender opening.

   • 6

     Remove the old antenna from the vehicle and inspect the antenna hole for any signs of rust or corrosion. Position the new antenna in place and run the antenna through the hole in the vehicle fender.

   • 7

     Attach the power antenna unit to the interior side wall of the Toyota under the passenger side dashboard with bolts. Reconnect the coaxial cable from the antenna to the radio and connect the electrical wiring to the fuse box.

   • 8

     Screw the nut back on the top of the power antenna unit with a crescent wrench to hold the device in place and then put the rubber grommet back over the nut. Reattach the negative battery cable to the battery with an open end wrench.

   • 9

     Turn the ignition key to the on position and turn the radio on to test the Toyota's power antenna. Once you have verified that the antenna is working, turn the radio off and turn the ignition key to off.