DarkSky

I just took delivery of my new C6 yesterday and while cruising around last night noticed how poor the FM radio reception is. It is constantly popping and cracking even on the closest most powerful stations. I have the Nav/Audio system. CDs sound fine. Any know issues or easy fixes?

Also does anyone know if there is an xm kit to add xm to the nav type system? I'm interested in a genuine gm kit that will work with the stock radio controls.

2005ArcticWhite

Boy, no problems here, sorry to hear this.

Vette_DD

I think a VERY few have reported this problem, but mine's okay. I just don't live close enough to very many FM stations, so I only get about half a dozen or so. But no popping & cracking on the ones I do get.

Sounds like you need to visit your dealer.

Datawiz

Yikes! I've had a lot of problems with my C6, but that is definitely not one of them. Good luck!

mforman42

There was a reported problem. Try switching to AM, then back to FM to see if the problem goes away. That reportedly worked for some. If that's the case, there is an issue with the circuit that switches the antenna array for the bands. There is also, reportedly, a firmware update for the radios. I wouldn't think this would apply to a new car.

shopdog

I have recently started to experience the noisy FM problem. Switching to AM and back to FM seems to clear it up. This isn't right, of course, but is a viable workaround until some more service information becomes available.

As to retrofitting XM, if you can get your hands on a module, the harness for it is already there, behind the trim next to the driver's side rear speaker, and the radio will recognize it the next time you start the car. You'll need to run an antenna wire and install a wart antenna, but that's pretty simple, and you'll have the option to use a smaller antenna, and mount it in a less obtrusive spot (like somewhere *inside* the hatch).

AFAIK the XM module isn't special to the Corvette. Any late model GM car with XM should have the same module. So you should be able to find one in a junkyard.

cgurley

I also have had very poor radio reception.

LS WON

FM reception is lousy. I can't hold a station and when it does lots of static.

Miaugi

Can someone get a pic showing the location and the actual harness? Is there any other type of input that could be wired into this harness, like a hard drive based jukebox? Anybody??

JFTaylor

While traveling from VA Bch to DC, I was looking for the NASCAR race. By mistake I hit the auto program button. It auto set only 3 stations. I was shocked.
XM is great though except when at stop lights under an overpass.

WhiteC5Vette

Might be the problem....


Poor Radio Reception or Radio Static/Increased Interference with Rear Window Defogger On or Some Rear Window Defogger Grids may be Inoperative (Diagnose and Repair Rear Window Defogger Heating Grid) #03-08-44-005C - (Jan 19, 2005)
Poor Radio Reception or Radio Static/Increased Interference with Rear Window Defogger On or Some Rear Window Defogger Grids May Be Inoperative (Diagnose and Repair Rear Window Defogger Heating Grid)

...
1997-2005 Chevrolet Corvette...
Condition
Some customers may comment that the radio has poor reception or radio static/increased interference when the rear window defogger is turned on. Also, some rear window defogger grids may be inoperative.

Cause
This condition may be due to microscopic cracks in the electrically heated grids of the rear window defogger. These cracks may cause electrical interference when the rear defogger is on and this could affect radio reception.

jgraditor

My FM reception is a little weak, more spotty then terrible. Can homestly say with the XM, I don't use the regular radio much. $10 a month is well spent in my opinion.

Corvette ED

Windshield antennas never work in Corvettes. The car should have a power antenna and this would solve the problem.

juiceman03070

Ya.What He Said.....

TRAYC7

I have noticed mine doing this... I mostly listen to XM.. but on occasion I get the static.. working with dealer now to catch the issue... nothing major... but its there...

Gussy913

same problem here... DVD Nav & XM... same problem I will try the AM to FM switch & see what happens....I have to wait 6 weeks for the car to get back from being converted to a hardtop convertible....

Tommy D

I have the 1SA package and radio reception of some stations is weak. No static or noise, I just loose reception a lot sooner than with my other cars.

DebtCraft

So far, mine has been fine. I live in an area where my favorite FM stations break up easily, but I've been quite pleased with the reception compared to other vehicles I own.

Kreuzen

I haven't noticed any problems.....after reading a lot of threads on the Forum, I was a little worried I would be disappointed. However, the system sounds surprisingly good and I haven't had any problems with FM reception...so far. I've been so jazzed just enjoying every aspect of the car, at this point it just continues to deliver!

Eaglepilot

I have also had static in my FM radio...usually occurs 50% of the time....AM and CD are always clear. Selecting AM and reselecting FM does not clear the static problem for me. Have checked all ground connections (battery, motor, alternate) and antenna module connections (between the rear lights)...all conections seem fine.