Audi A4 Cab - radio

[Tim Netherton]

Mrs N has an 03 plate Audi A4 cabriolet - the radio seems to go on the blink, i.e. the reception is ste or does not work at all - usually when the roof has been down.

Any suggestions? Am I looking at a cheapish fix from an audio specialist?

I have tried the search function but it brought nothing up.

Ta in advance.

Edited by Tim Netherton on Monday 15th March 10:53

[Dr G]

I've one in stock that does the same thing, looks like a wiring fault to the aerial.

Independent car audio guy is your best bet. If the head unit is dead dead (unlikely) I can source good, used ones if you'd rather not go aftermarket.

[Ghisallo]

This is a well known problem on A4 cabs. I have the same issue, as do a couple of other owners I know. In my case I pick up some stations in urban areas, otherwise just static. Forums are full of stories. First check that your boot lid is closed properly, if not reception can be poor. Main cause of bad or no reception is damage to wires in flexible connector betweeb body and boot lid where aerial and 2 x aerial amps are located. Otherwise could be a damaged aerial amp. To fix Audi quote about £500 +VAT and will just rewire the whole thing. Independent audio people in my neck of the woods won't touch it. I'm going to try a new aerial amp myself (I think one might be faulty), part costs £200 though AFAIK.

[Tim Netherton]

Thanks for the quick response fellas - much appreciated.

I'll let you know how I get on.

[00161wj]

Common fault, the wires break from the headunit to the amplifier in the boot lid. Will be broken in the flexi hose on the left of the boot lid that goes into the boot.