How to Replace an Antenna in a 2000 Lexus RX300

There are three circumstances demanding service to the power antenna. Each situation demands a different approach to repair the failure. With any luck, the antenna mast, or a portion thereof, is broken off. The remedy is quickly rectified with the purchase of a new antenna mast. The second scenario involves the antennas inability to extend or retract fully. The nylon-toothed rail that winds around the antenna spool has broken and the section lodged in the spool must be removed to install a new mast. This, and the last scenario, a failed motor, requires removal of the assembly, which requires only a few simple tools, but is a moderately difficult process due to its location.

Instructions

1

Remove the spare tire cover, using a socket to remove the 10 mm nuts on the hinges. Locate the exact position of the antenna assembly by mentally drawing a line straight down from the chrome cap on the outside top of the assembly. This is the area of paneling and carpet that must be removed. No window trim needs to be removed.

2

Remove the first-aid box cover and associated panel. The panels are all secured with plastic screws and can be removed with the screwdriver. Those with no provision for a screwdriver are friction locks; pull these out with your hand. Lower the passenger rear seat upright to access the carpet stays. Remove the spare tire cover, using a 10 mm socket. Remove the inside trays.

3

Pull the carpet on the passenger's side away enough to access the antenna. Remove the chrome top cap on the antenna mast tube, using the needle-nose pliers. Notice the slots on the base of the cap. Hold a cloth around the cap so that the pliers do not slip and scratch the paint. Turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it; have patience because its long. Once it is off, remove the black plastic piece that contacts the body under the cap.

4

Remove the two 10 mm nuts securing the antenna to the body. Move the antenna away far enough to remove the drain hose and disconnect the electrical connector at the antenna's motor.

5

Disconnect the antenna cable up towards the seat back; it is under the carpet. Remove the bracket from the antenna with a socket, paying attention to the location of the ground wire.

6

Remove the round cover over the spool, using the Phillips or socket depending on the type of connector. Lift up the spool and look for the broken section of nylon-toothed mast. Remove it with the needle-nose pliers. Reinstall the spool. At this point, pay attention to the location of the upright mast in relation to which side of the spool if enters. Notice the gear next to the spool. This is the direction the teeth on the new mast must face when installing it.

7

Install the spool cover. Install the mounting bracket. Position the assembly where the drain hose and electrical connector can be reinstalled. Place the antenna assembly into position and install the nuts to secure it.

8

Connect the two halves of the antenna cable. Place the black plastic crown on the top side of the antenna and install the chrome cap. Push the carpet down in place and install the vertical side panels in the same manner as they were removed.

9

Install the package trays in the spare tire well and the spare tire cover. Install the new mast assembly with the use of a helper. Extend the new mast completely. Position the nylon-toothed cable so that it faces the gear seen previously in the antenna motor spool. Have the helper turn the key to the "Run" position, then turn the radio on. This will actuate the antenna motor and gear in the up position. At this point, insert the nylon-toothed cable as far as possible and place the base of the new mast just inside the top of the antenna housing.

10

Have the helper turn the radio off, and the gear will grab the nylon-toothed cable and roll it around the spool. This, in turn, will retract the antenna. Have the helper turn the radio on again, so the antenna will extend fully. Turn the radio off to complete the antenna installation.