Antenna

Remove and replace the radio antenna mast and base assembly on a 2009 Aston Martin DB9, including interior trim removal for access to the antenna mounting hardware and electrical connector.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Antenna mast assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna base gasket/seal × 1 — Often included with antenna assembly

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure ignition is OFF with key removed.
2. Identify antenna location on rear right quarter panel (passenger side rear).
3. Open trunk to access interior side of antenna mounting location.
4. If antenna mast is damaged or seized, apply penetrating lubricant to base threads and allow 10-15 minutes soak time.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove trunk side trim panel
   From inside the trunk, locate the rear quarter trim panel on the passenger side (right side when facing forward). Identify and remove Torx fasteners securing the trim panel; expect to find 4-6 fasteners along the panel edges. Use trim removal tools to carefully release the retaining clips along the perimeter of the panel. Work from one edge progressively to avoid breaking clips. Lift panel away to expose the antenna base mounting area.
2. 2

   Disconnect antenna cable
   Locate the coaxial antenna cable connector attached to the base of the antenna assembly. Press the release tab (if equipped) or pull straight back on the connector boot to disconnect the cable from the antenna base. Do not pull on the cable itself; grip only the connector housing. Note the routing of the cable for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove antenna mast from exterior
   From outside the vehicle, unscrew the antenna mast by rotating it counterclockwise. The mast threads into the antenna base. If the mast is stiff or corroded, use a strap wrench or wrap the mast with a towel and grip firmly with pliers to avoid damaging the finish. Remove the mast completely and set aside.
4. 4

   Remove antenna base mounting hardware
   From inside the trunk, locate the antenna base mounting nut or fasteners securing the base to the body panel. Remove the mounting hardware using a 10mm socket. The base is typically secured with 1 mounting nut and may have a ground wire terminal under the nut. Keep track of the mounting hardware sequence and orientation for reassembly.
5. 5

   Remove antenna base assembly
   Carefully withdraw the antenna base assembly from the exterior through the body panel mounting hole. The base may have a rubber gasket or seal that should be removed with the assembly. Inspect the mounting hole and surrounding paint for corrosion or damage. Clean the mounting surface with a lint-free cloth.
6. 6

   Inspect and prepare new antenna assembly
   Compare the new antenna assembly to the old unit to confirm correct replacement. Inspect the base gasket/seal; if not pre-installed on the new antenna, transfer the gasket from the old unit if in good condition, or install a new gasket. Ensure the gasket is properly seated in the base groove to prevent water intrusion.
7. 7

   Install new antenna base
   From the exterior, insert the new antenna base assembly through the body panel mounting hole. Align the base so the cable connector port faces the interior access area. From inside the trunk, install the mounting nut (and ground wire terminal if equipped) onto the antenna base stud. Hand-tighten initially, then snug the nut with a 10mm socket. Tighten firmly but do not overtighten, as excessive force may crack the plastic base or compress the gasket excessively.
8. 8

   Reconnect antenna cable
   Push the coaxial antenna cable connector firmly onto the antenna base terminal until it clicks or seats fully. Gently tug the cable to verify secure connection. Route the cable in its original path, ensuring it is not kinked or pinched by trim panels.
9. 9

   Install antenna mast
   From the exterior, thread the antenna mast clockwise into the antenna base. Hand-tighten the mast firmly until it stops; do not use tools to tighten the mast as this may strip the plastic threads. Ensure the mast is fully seated and vertical.
10. 10

    Reinstall trunk trim panel
    Position the trunk side trim panel and align all retaining clips with their receptacles in the body. Press firmly along the panel edges to engage the clips, working systematically around the perimeter. Reinstall the Torx fasteners and tighten securely. Verify the panel is flush and all clips are properly engaged.

Reassembly

1. Ensure antenna cable connector is fully seated and locked before closing up trim panels.
2. Verify antenna mast is hand-tight and vertical before testing radio reception.
3. Confirm all trim panel clips are engaged and fasteners are installed to prevent rattles.

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON or accessory position and power on the radio/infotainment system.
• Test AM and FM radio reception across multiple stations to confirm antenna is functioning correctly.
• Inspect exterior antenna mast for proper alignment and secure fitment.
• Check trunk interior trim panel for secure installation with no gaps or loose clips.
• Verify no warning lights or fault codes are present in the instrument cluster related to antenna or radio system.

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