This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the roof-mounted antenna assembly on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150, including disconnection of the antenna cable and mast replacement.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Antenna mast assembly × 1 — Ford part FL3Z-18919-A or equivalent
• Antenna base gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure ignition is off and key/fob is removed from vehicle
3. If equipped with panoramic sunroof, close sunshade fully
4. Clean area around antenna base on roof to prevent debris from entering cabin

Procedure

1. 1

   Access Interior Headliner
   Open the rear door on the driver's side for easier access. Locate the headliner trim panel above the rear seat area on the driver's side where the antenna cable routes down. This is typically near the B-pillar area.
2. 2

   Remove Headliner Trim Panel
   Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry down the headliner grab handle cover if present. Remove any retaining screws from the grab handle assembly. Gently pull down the edge of the headliner near the B-pillar to expose the antenna cable routing. Work slowly to avoid breaking clips or tearing headliner material.
3. 3

   Disconnect Antenna Cable
   Locate the antenna cable connector where it plugs into the antenna base assembly inside the headliner. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight down to disconnect. Note the cable routing for reinstallation. If replacing entire antenna assembly, you may need to disconnect at the radio end instead, located behind the center dash.
4. 4

   Remove Exterior Antenna Mast
   From outside the vehicle, unscrew the antenna mast from the base by turning counterclockwise. The mast should thread off by hand. If stuck, use a shop towel for grip but avoid using pliers that could damage the mast threads.
5. 5

   Remove Antenna Base Mounting Nut
   From inside the vehicle with headliner pulled down, locate the antenna base mounting nut (typically 7mm). Use a 7mm socket with extension to remove the nut. Hold the antenna base from above with your other hand to prevent it from spinning.
6. 6

   Remove Antenna Base Assembly
   From the exterior, lift the antenna base assembly straight up and out of the roof opening. Remove the old rubber gasket from the roof opening and clean the mounting surface with a shop towel. Inspect the roof opening for any rust or damage.
7. 7

   Install New Antenna Base
   Place the new antenna base gasket onto the roof opening, ensuring it is properly seated. Insert the new antenna base assembly from above, threading the cable through the roof opening. Align the base so the mounting stud protrudes through the hole correctly.
8. 8

   Secure Antenna Base
   From inside the vehicle, thread the 7mm mounting nut onto the antenna base stud. Hand-tighten first, then snug with a 7mm socket. Do not overtighten as this can crack the antenna base or compress the gasket excessively. Torque to approximately 3-4 Nm (hand-tight plus 1/4 turn) if using a torque wrench.
9. 9

   Reconnect Antenna Cable
   Connect the antenna cable to the base assembly by pushing the connector straight up until it clicks into place. Ensure the connection is secure and the cable is properly routed without any kinks or pinch points.
10. 10

    Install Antenna Mast
    From outside the vehicle, thread the antenna mast clockwise into the base assembly. Hand-tighten only until snug. Do not use tools as this can strip the threads or crack the base.
11. 11

    Reinstall Headliner Trim
    Carefully push the headliner back into position, ensuring all retaining clips engage properly. Reinstall any grab handle assemblies and secure with screws if applicable. Verify the headliner sits flush and all trim pieces are properly seated.

Reassembly

1. Ensure antenna base gasket is properly sealed with no gaps around the perimeter
2. Verify all headliner clips are fully engaged and trim panels are flush
3. Confirm antenna cable has adequate slack and is not pinched by trim panels

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and test AM/FM radio reception on multiple stations to confirm antenna function
• Check for wind noise around antenna base at highway speeds
• Inspect exterior antenna base for water-tight seal and proper gasket seating
• Verify headliner trim is secure with no rattles or loose panels
• Test automatic car wash if equipped - antenna should remain secure

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