[3Roadster]

I had some problems with the satellite radio cutting in and out.
While stationary or driving, the radio would play a few seconds of music and then silence for a couple seconds, then back.
This was in places like the driveway where I had not experienced problems in the past fifteen months of ownership and the wife's radio (in an Acura) was fine as well.

As soon as I called the dealer about it the problem disappeared for now.
They were happy to diagnose and fix the problem under warranty but I don't want to show up if it's not happening.

I'll take a video next time. Wondering if this has happened to anyone else? I was wondering if winter had caused a problem with the sharkfin antenna connection.

 

[hkginlax]

Just a stupid question: are you having this problem even with an open sky? Satellite radio, the antenna more specifically requires an open sky to function. Meaning it will cut off under overpass or any similar structures.

 

[3Roadster]

Open sky.
> This was in places like the driveway where I had not experienced problems in the past fifteen months of ownership


I still know of a couple spots where I'll lose it for a second because of some geographical feature, but this was pretty much everywhere. It was too excruciating to drive very far like this, but I would try it, then switch to FM and then switch back later (for science).

 

[3Roadster]

I was able to reproduce the problem by pouring two quarts of water on the antenna.
My car is at the dealer now for the 20k and they are going to replace the "sharkfin" "GPS" antenna.
It will take a couple days even though the part was in stock because it has to be painted to match (from Monday morning to Wednesday afternoon and that's when there is a body shop next door).
Warranty. I'll post any details I get from the paperwork.

 

[cipher]

We have had a similar issue with a notification on the screen saying to check the antenna. The dealer ordered a new one and will replace it later this week.

 

[3Roadster]

I'm back from the dealer and had my antenna replaced.
The antenna is part number 9P1-035-510-A
I don't really have any other details from the paperwork.

The service department had no problems reproducing my issues by pouring water on the antenna.

Interesting note: that antenna is just glued on so if someone decides against satellite radio (and maybe Navigation), it can be removed without any damage to the car. Cleaning up the glue residue is the hardest part.

 

[wriggly]

Interesting note: that antenna is just glued on so if someone decides against satellite radio (and maybe Navigation), it can be removed without any damage to the car. Cleaning up the glue residue is the hardest part.

Wouldn't there be a hole left in the roof?

 

[3Roadster]

Wouldn't there be a hole left in the roof?

That's what I thought but apparently not? BMWs have holes: https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=797745&page=2

I don't know how it works. I think it's a cleaner look without it, but even if I stopped using satellite radio I would keep it there in case I changed my mind.