electrical
Antenna
for 2012 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote · 4WD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
42 min
Tools
6
Steps
10
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the roof-mounted antenna mast and base assembly on the 2011-2014 Ford F-150.
Warnings
⚠Do not force the headliner down as it can crease permanently. Work carefully to avoid damage to trim clips.
ℹ️The antenna cable connector is fragile. Do not pull on the cable itself, only on the connector body.
Tools required
7mm socket or nut driverEssential
Panel trim removal tool
Phillips screwdriver
Torque wrench (5-20 Nm range)Essential
Flashlight or work light
Shop towels
Parts
- Antenna mast and base assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Antenna base gasket/seal × 1 — Often included with antenna assembly
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Ensure ignition is off and key is removed
- If equipped with sunroof, ensure it is fully closed
- Clean area around antenna base on roof to prevent debris from falling into headliner
Procedure
- 1Remove overhead consoleOpen the overhead console storage compartment. Locate and remove the two Phillips screws at the front of the console near the dome lights. Carefully pull the rear of the console down first, then unclip the front. Disconnect any electrical connectors for dome lights, sunroof switch (if equipped), and compass/temperature display. Set console aside safely.
- 2Lower headliner at antenna locationThe antenna is located near the center-rear of the headliner. Gently pull down the headliner in this area just enough to access the antenna mounting hardware from inside the cab. You may need to remove the rear dome light assembly for additional clearance. The headliner is held by friction and clips; work slowly to avoid damage.
- 3Disconnect antenna cableLocate the coaxial antenna cable connector attached to the base of the antenna assembly. Press the release tab (if equipped) and pull the connector straight down from the antenna base. Do not twist or pull on the cable itself. Note the routing of the cable for reinstallation.
- 4Remove antenna mounting hardwareFrom inside the vehicle, locate the antenna base mounting hardware. There are typically three 7mm nuts securing the antenna base to the roof. Support the antenna mast from the outside of the vehicle (have a helper hold it or tape it in place) to prevent it from falling when the last nut is removed. Remove all three nuts and retain any washers or spacers.
- 5Remove antenna assembly from roofFrom outside the vehicle, carefully lift the antenna mast and base assembly straight up and away from the roof. Remove the old gasket/seal from the roof surface. Inspect the mounting area for any corrosion, damage, or water intrusion. Clean the mounting surface thoroughly with a shop towel.
- 6Install new antenna gasketPlace the new antenna base gasket onto the roof mounting location, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting holes and cable opening. The gasket should sit flat against the painted roof surface to ensure a watertight seal.
- 7Position new antenna assemblyFrom outside the vehicle, carefully guide the new antenna assembly through the gasket and into the mounting hole. Ensure the antenna cable connector end passes through the opening into the headliner area. Align the three mounting studs with the holes in the roof.
- 8Secure antenna baseFrom inside the vehicle, install the three 7mm mounting nuts onto the antenna base studs. Hand-tighten first to ensure proper seating. Tighten nuts in a star pattern (if applicable) or alternately to ensure even pressure on the gasket. Final tighten to 8.0 Nm (6 lb-ft). Verify the antenna base sits flush against the roof with no gaps in the gasket seal.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 9Reconnect antenna cableConnect the coaxial antenna cable to the base of the new antenna assembly. Push firmly until you hear or feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely attached. Ensure cable routing matches original path and is not pinched or kinked.
- 10Reinstall headliner and overhead consoleCarefully push the headliner back up into position, ensuring all clips re-engage properly. Reinstall the rear dome light if removed. Reconnect all electrical connectors to the overhead console (dome lights, sunroof switch, compass). Position the console and engage the front clips first, then press the rear up until it snaps into place. Install the two Phillips screws at the front of the console.
Reassembly
- Verify all interior trim panels and overhead console are securely fastened
- Check that headliner is properly seated with no sagging or gaps
- Test all dome lights and overhead console functions
Verification
- Turn ignition to ON position and test AM/FM radio reception on multiple stations to verify antenna function
- Visually inspect antenna base from outside for proper alignment and gasket seal with no gaps
- Check for water leaks after first car wash or rain event
- Verify antenna mast is tight and does not rotate or wobble