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DIY - Whip-Type to (OEM) Shark-Fin Type Antenna Swap
I ordered my US spec GTI with Package 0. Although I had no issues with the whip-type (aka bee-sting) antenna that came with it, I felt that the shark-fin antenna looked better (and more appropriate for this generation).
However, in reviewing the stock photos, I noticed that the Europeans got a nicer, more slender looking shark-fin compared to the bigger, bulkier ones here in the US. After some research, I found-out that the bulk was mainly due to the additional satellite radio circuitry needed for XM/Sirius.
Anyway, I ordered my european OEM shark-fin online and got it professionally color-matched/painted and did the install. Of course, before that, I spent quite a bit of time reviewing the service manual and looking for other DIYs out there. I noticed that some UK forum members had done it but none ever got around to posting their specifics.
So, here it is...
Pictures for now and write-up details later. (I got sorta burned out doing the install and taking the pictures!!!)
It was kind of a bitch to do it but, like many tough mods, totally worth it! (Mostly difficult because of the tight-confined spaces. If you took the time to remove all the necessary interior panels--include the back seat--you could significantly lower the headliner and easily reach all the necessary parts.)
UPDATE: BTW, I noticed that FM reception was fine without the antenna connected. However, AM reception was none-existent. This is strange since I thought both AM & FM antennas were built-into the rear windshield.
Both AM & FM were fine when I hooked-up the antenna--even with the thick coat of primer, paint & clear-coat.
UPDATE 5/2007: Doing this swap may throw "Antenna disconnected" fault codes behind the scenes (ie. they won't show-up on your MFD but may show-up when scanned with a VAG-COM). As far as I can tell, it's not show-stopper but please do it at your own risk.
UPDATE 6/2008:The EU antenna shown in this DIY are for extending cellphone reception. It does nothing to enhance FM/AM reception. Also, for more information on FAKRA connectors look here: http://vwnavi.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7561
I ordered my US spec GTI with Package 0. Although I had no issues with the whip-type (aka bee-sting) antenna that came with it, I felt that the shark-fin antenna looked better (and more appropriate for this generation).
However, in reviewing the stock photos, I noticed that the Europeans got a nicer, more slender looking shark-fin compared to the bigger, bulkier ones here in the US. After some research, I found-out that the bulk was mainly due to the additional satellite radio circuitry needed for XM/Sirius.
Anyway, I ordered my european OEM shark-fin online and got it professionally color-matched/painted and did the install. Of course, before that, I spent quite a bit of time reviewing the service manual and looking for other DIYs out there. I noticed that some UK forum members had done it but none ever got around to posting their specifics.
So, here it is...
Pictures for now and write-up details later. (I got sorta burned out doing the install and taking the pictures!!!)
It was kind of a bitch to do it but, like many tough mods, totally worth it! (Mostly difficult because of the tight-confined spaces. If you took the time to remove all the necessary interior panels--include the back seat--you could significantly lower the headliner and easily reach all the necessary parts.)
UPDATE: BTW, I noticed that FM reception was fine without the antenna connected. However, AM reception was none-existent. This is strange since I thought both AM & FM antennas were built-into the rear windshield.
Both AM & FM were fine when I hooked-up the antenna--even with the thick coat of primer, paint & clear-coat.
UPDATE 5/2007: Doing this swap may throw "Antenna disconnected" fault codes behind the scenes (ie. they won't show-up on your MFD but may show-up when scanned with a VAG-COM). As far as I can tell, it's not show-stopper but please do it at your own risk.
UPDATE 6/2008:The EU antenna shown in this DIY are for extending cellphone reception. It does nothing to enhance FM/AM reception. Also, for more information on FAKRA connectors look here: http://vwnavi.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7561
Attachments
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sharkfin_closeup.jpg -
antenna_base_view.jpg -
panels_interior.jpg -
roof_edge_trim.jpg -
roof_hole.jpg -
under_headliner.jpg -
antenna_nut.jpg -
connector_hookup.jpg -
connector_closeup.jpg -
c-pillar_closeup.jpg
Last edited:
