I live in Orange County, Ca and have horrible radio reception. I've had about 4-5 cars since I've been here and have never had this problem until now. I understand it's got a tiny antenna, but I'm just curious if this would be the cause, or if it's something wrong with the radio or electrical connecting to it.

Specifically it's 98.7 and 106.7 which are pretty main stream channels out here in socal. I live by the 91, 57, and 55 freeways if anyone can confirm reception.

So, should I just buy a longer antenna, or take it to the dealer to see if something is wrong with it? It's about a month old and has been doing itthis entire time. Some channels come in fine, but many are just horrible.

Thanks in advance!

 

Can't comment about your specific situation, but I've had the same problem in the outskirts of the Houston metro area. Out here in the boonies, reception is very dependent upon the weather - We've had a high pressure system parked overhead for 3 months, which really kills any distance reception. When it rains, everything comes in pretty ok. To make things worse, I work away from town.

I've been thinking of running some thin wire (think of the FM antenna that comes with a home receiver) along the top edge of the hatch and running to the antenna to try to improve things. If I do, I'll let ya'll know how it works out.

 

humm.... radio reception shouldn't be any different from your previous cars.

anyone know...does the GE have a powered antenna booster? it so, it might be faulty.

 

There is way too much trash clogging the air waves these days and making signal reception difficult... Wake up early on a Sunday morning when there is less radio signal traffic and you will be amazed to turn on the radio and get clear reception.

 

I'd try what TC said. If bad reception didn't happen with your previous cars while driving the same routes then I'd take it to the dealer. No 2nd thoughts, being only a month old.

 

Antenna is powered. I installed an aftermarket deck, and needed the 'Power Antenna' lead connected to get good reception.