Whenever I turn on my rear defrost, my FM reception goes to static. Any idea what this could be? I THINK it was fine and just started happening.... Could something have come loose?

'03 A6 4.2

 

I am with you on this one. I hope someone has a remedy for this. I have the same problem. Turn on REAR defroster and the FM radio transmits static...sometimes. Haven't figured this one out yet.

 

At least it dosen't go on vacation!

Try the hit the pillar routine - It might help!

 

I don't know what they use on the 2003 A6 but my Bentley Manual says my 1995 A6 has a front and a rear Antenna Amp. I found no front amp where the manual says it is but I think the rear ant amp is in place.

Manual also says "The rear window defogger heat elements are also used for FM reception." The wire going to the FM antenna on the back window is the same wire for the rear defroster. Could be someoxidationon that contact may be causing the static. I'd try cleaning the contact. Pull it off and push it back on a few times. Thatshould clean off most surface oxidation.

TheTop 3 lines on the rear glass are used only for AM reception and are not part of the defogger system.

 

If you do in fact have a rear antenna amp, it could also be a poor ground connection on the amp. Check the both screws that groundsamp to the body. Loosenand tighten them. Also check the positive +12 Volt power lead to the amp and the ant cable connection to the amp.Possibly one of these connections is causing the static problem.

Also check continuity of the FM antenna wires on the rear window and make sure none are corroded or faulty.

 

My girlfriend had the same problem with her 2004 A4. The dealer had to replace the back window because the antenna crosses the defrost in the glass and it was faulty. It worked after.