Where is the antenna?
 

Hi All,

Could you point me to the antenna connector in my 02 x5 4.6is? I get really crappy radio reception and can't figure out when that changed... I want to see if the connector somehow got loose...

And correct me if i'm wrong but the antenna itself is in the rear window on the driver's side right?

DF

My guess is embedded in the windshield. In for educated answer.

Our X5s uses a diversity antenna which is attached to an amp/trap circuit...the wiring is embedded in the rear cargo glass on the left side (driver's side if you have LHD). The Touring (wagons) generally have the same set-up...whereas the sedans/coupes antenna is embedded in the rear windshield.

You can see in the image below how cables #5 & #6 come from the amp/trap circuit (#4) and connect to the embedded antenna in that rear left window. The antenna for the keyless entry is #1 in the diagram and is connected to its amp (#2) in the diagram:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/diagrams/h/g/80.png

Pretty cool!

Thank you!!

No problem. I should have added that my 99 540iT had horrible AM reception...then one day I was doing something in the cargo area while the radio was on...and unintentionally bumped a few wires/cables that were in a loom above the CD changer & amp...and at the same time, the radio reception turned crystal clear.

In my case it was something simple & easy...the loom that contained the cables to the antenna had dropped down closer to the electronic components in the rear area...thus disrupting/distortion radio reception.

Others have had issues with the "starred" connectors on the cable ends...and tightening up that connector helped with radio reception. Check out this thread by CNN...its on an e39 5 series sedan...but he has images of the starred connector that he "spread" to get better reception: AM Radio Reception Fix (1998 528i - also applicable to other BMW models)!!

How can I remove the amp/trap circuit (#4 in the diagram above)?? This is for a 2001 X5.

You'll need to remove all of the audio stuff in the left rear cargo area to access it. Once the components you have (the Nav/Amp/CD changer etc. ) have been moved out of the way...you may need to pull the insulation back to find it...if it's still not visible.

This will require that you remove some of the plastic floor sections on that side below the cargo floor, too.

I'm getting closer... see my photos... the trap circuit is behind the remaining piece of black cargo wall (first photo).

I can see the trap circuit, and barely get my fingers on it (though it's almost tight enough to get my hand caught - second photo).

The third photo shows that the piece I need to remove is held by several plastic rivets. The only thing I can figure is to snap the wall away and purchase replacement rivets. They don't look like they are reusable. Unless someone knows another way.

The pin in the centre of the rivet should push through. It will trap in the back, and you can remove the rivet, reset the pin, and re-use them.