Radio + Lights = Static

[Extreme HI]

Does this sound familiar, or have you heard it before?

The factory installed radio in our '02 coupe has it's antenna in the windshield. Whenever the radio is on frequencies 87.9 through 90.9 and the parking lights or headlighs are on, there is static in the audio. The static noise gets softer when you lower the dimmer switch for the dash lights. So you might think we have a broken ground wire in the dimmer. The techs at Phelps Chevrolet here in Greenville, NC couldn't figure it out and told us we'd have to live with it. Now it's at another Chevy dealer who hasn't figured it out either, but are not giving up. Any suggestions?

 

[wishuwerehere82]

I have heard it on my 98 when the CD player is between songs, and on weak AM stations. No problem with FM or when the CD is playing songs. Most Am radios will pick up alternator noise and I just disregard it.

 

[c4c5specialist]

I have heard it on my 98 when the CD player is between songs, and on weak AM stations. No problem with FM or when the CD is playing songs. Most Am radios will pick up alternator noise and I just disregard it.

Hi there,
There is a few bulletins for static on the FM band in c5.

There are ground source connections that could be checked on the antenna module.

Also, if you have a radar detector on the front dash, this could also create the condition of RFI or EMI, which are basically interference of the antenna.

Please keep us posted, c4c5

 

[Ed02]

I just bought a Monster Cable RF wireless modulator to play my IPOD through the radio. It is switchable from 88.3 to 88.9. In the instructions it states that you might get a little static in that band depending on the location of the antenna and that some windows have a metallic film in them that might interfere with the signal. And they're right, I do get a little static, nothing I can't live with. I'd be interested to hear what the dealer has to say about your problem.

 

[jrose7004]

I get that when I've got the XM MyFi on and the radio is set on 88.5!

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

Hi there,
There is a few bulletins for static on the FM band in c5.

There are ground source connections that could be checked on the antenna module.

Also, if you have a radar detector on the front dash, this could also create the condition of RFI or EMI, which are basically interference of the antenna.

Please keep us posted, c4c5

c4c5specialist,

Can you post the TSB's for the static? (I checked the CAD knowledgebase and did not see any.) Thanks.

 

[Extreme HI]

Problem solved.

Tech entry: "Disconnect driver door switch and test. Removing switch or serial data to DDM eliminates noise. Install trap in power feed line from DDM to driver switch assembly."

Cost of lesson to GM: 15 hours.

This guy had pulled the carpeting out, pulled a lot of panels out, and pulled his hair out. But that kind of dedication earns respect.
We're sticking with this dealership. They refused to give up on a problem despite orders from the Mother Ship.

 

[c4c5specialist]

EXCELLENT.
I would definately write a letter to this dealership and buy the tech a cup of coffee.
I am very impressed.
Allthebest, c4c5

 

[Extreme HI]

Thanks. We will write a letter.

Just wondering: your info says you don't have a corvette. Is this still true? why?