Sirius Radio poor reception

I have had my TDI since February. My reception with Sirius radio is lousy---may be good for several minutes and then, momentarily cuts out and then comes back again. In addition, the sound is that of an old turntable with poor "wow and flutter" ratings. Anyone else with this? Is this the radio or the dang Sirius broadcasting?



Karl

Because the signal comes from a satellite, sky obstructions, such as tree cover, can cause drop outs. I don't know about the "wow and flutter".

Yeah...I know going under trees, into tunnels, etc can (and do!) cut the signal but, this happens in the clear for some reason. I'm not sure if I should approach Sirius---gotta have a day or so free time to get them frm my past experience--or try VW.....


Karl

What antenna are you using?

The mico dot antennas are only good for a year or two.

Turbine Suburban said:

What antenna are you using?

The mico dot antennas are only good for a year or two.

Click to expand...

Sounds like it's a factory Sirius install.

The microdot antennas last a long time if you mount it inside the dash attached to the metal crashbar.

karlthev - What kind of environment are you in? I have very few dropouts with my setup. Does your radio have a signal strength indicator menu someplace? My radio provides satellite & terrestrial strengths.

Bob

Where is your antenna mounted?

It's the stock '09 VW "stubby" antenna and the standard radio with no signal strength indicators as I am aware of. Location in NE Pennsylvania--not exactly a major urban area but not the jungle either....


Karl

Hey Karl,

I would guess it's an issue with the radio or Sirius module. It's still under warranty.... Make the dealer fix it. Maybe a bad antenna or bad grounding?

I believe the regular radios have pretty limited communication with the satellite radio module. Might be tough on your own to get diagnostic info thru the radio or vagcom. It would be interesting to know if your getting the signal from the satellite or a ground repeater.

Bob

I'll start the process of more research i guess. I'll wager that Sirius will state it's a radio problem and VW will want to point the finger at the Sirius signal weakness---but I may be "jumping the gun". Oh I long for my old 8-tracks! HA!


Karl

I have the same problem and I just deal with it I guess, I sure would like to get more crisp sound though. I was driving through pittsburgh the other day and one of the stinkin FM channels sounded so good and clear!