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A guide to damage analysis and repairs to satellite radio systems |
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Thursday, 05 April 2007 |
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Page 1 of 2 More and more vehicles on the road today are being equipped with satellite radio systems (see Figure 1). This advanced entertainment system may present new challenges when doing damage analysis and repairs.
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Figure 1
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Figure 2
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Figure 3
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Satellite radio is commercial-free, digital radio, delivered via satellite. A service fee is required in order to receive satellite radio service. Currently there are two satellite radio service providers. Look for the Sirius® or XM® logo to help determine if a vehicle is equipped with a satellite radio system. Each company has its own service and satellites.
Satellite radios are available as aftermarket retrofit or factory-installed systems.
Antennas
A satellite radio system uses a separate antenna. These systems may use a micro-coaxial cable (see Figure 2), which may be located under the backlite molding.
The digital radio antenna on a 2006 Cadillac DTS is located on the roof. The antenna signal circuit is a coaxial cable that carries the radio signal information received by the antenna. The antenna cable also provides a path for DC current for powering the antenna.
Extent of damage
Damage to a satellite radio system may include severed or pinched cables, a disconnected or damaged antenna, or damaged or missing speakers.
If the system is factory installed, determining the extent of damage may include following a diagnostic flowchart. Following a flowchart will likely require that the vehicle be located outside with the system engaged, and a clear, unobstructed area to allow the best possible signal reception.
Replacing parts
Satellite radio parts are replaced, not repaired. Fortunately, most parts are available separately. A severed micro-coaxial cable should not be spliced because the RF signal would be weakened.
GM states that basecoat or clearcoat should not be applied to the digital radio antenna (see Figure 3). Doing so will damage the function of the antenna, causing poor reception or loss of signal reception.
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