electrical

Antenna

for 2017 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote · RWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
42 min
Tools
6
Steps
9

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the roof-mounted antenna assembly on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 Coyote engine.

Warnings

Do not force the headliner down excessively as it may crease or tear. Work gently around edges.
ℹ️Disconnecting the battery is not required for this procedure unless replacing the entire antenna module with amplifier.
Ensure vehicle roof is cool to the touch before beginning work to avoid burns and thermal expansion issues.

Tools required

7mm socket or nut driverEssential
Ratchet with short extensionEssential
Trim panel removal tool set
Torque wrench (5-50 Nm range)Essential
Small flathead screwdriver
Shop towels

Parts

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

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure engine is cool
  2. Clean area around antenna base on roof to prevent debris from falling into cabin
  3. Open rear doors to provide easier access to overhead console area if needed
  4. Have replacement antenna and gasket ready for installation

Procedure

  1. 1
    Access Interior Mounting Hardware
    From inside the cabin, locate the headliner area directly below the antenna mounting location (center roof line, toward rear). Carefully pull down the headliner edge near the antenna base to expose the mounting nut and cable connection. Use a trim tool if needed to gently separate headliner from roof structure without tearing.
  2. 2
    Disconnect Antenna Cable
    Locate the coaxial antenna cable connection at the base of the antenna mast. Press the release tab (if present) and pull the connector straight down to disconnect it from the antenna base. Note the routing of the cable for reinstallation.
  3. 3
    Remove Interior Mounting Nut
    Using a 7mm socket with extension, remove the mounting nut that secures the antenna base from inside the cabin. Support the antenna base from above (exterior) with your other hand to prevent it from falling once the nut is removed. Keep the nut and any washers in a safe location.
  4. 4
    Remove Antenna Assembly from Exterior
    From the exterior of the vehicle, carefully lift the antenna assembly straight up and out of the roof mounting hole. Remove the old rubber gasket/seal from the base if it did not come with the antenna. Inspect the mounting hole for any debris or corrosion.
  5. 5
    Clean Mounting Surface
    Clean the roof mounting surface around the antenna hole with a shop towel. Remove any old gasket material, dirt, or corrosion. Ensure the paint around the mounting hole is in good condition to prevent future water intrusion.
  6. 6
    Install New Gasket and Antenna
    Place the new rubber gasket/seal onto the base of the replacement antenna assembly. From the exterior, carefully insert the antenna base through the roof mounting hole, ensuring the gasket seats properly against the roof surface. Align the threaded stud so it projects into the cabin.
  7. 7
    Secure Interior Mounting Nut
    From inside the cabin, thread the mounting nut onto the antenna stud by hand until finger-tight. Use the 7mm socket and torque wrench to tighten to 8.0 Nm (6 lb-ft). Do not overtighten as this may compress the gasket excessively or crack the antenna base.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  8. 8
    Reconnect Antenna Cable
    Connect the coaxial antenna cable to the base of the new antenna assembly. Push firmly until you hear or feel a click indicating proper engagement. Gently tug on the cable to verify it is securely connected.
  9. 9
    Restore Headliner
    Carefully press the headliner back into place against the roof structure. Ensure all clips or fasteners are properly reseated and the headliner sits flush without gaps or sagging.

Reassembly

  1. Verify antenna gasket is properly sealed against roof with no gaps visible from exterior
  2. Ensure headliner is properly repositioned without wrinkles or separation from roof
  3. Check that antenna mast is vertical and properly oriented

Verification

  • Turn vehicle ignition to ON position and test AM/FM radio reception on multiple stations
  • Test SiriusXM satellite radio if equipped to verify proper signal reception
  • Inspect exterior antenna base for proper sealing with no visible gaps in gasket
  • Take vehicle through car wash or spray water around antenna base to verify no leaks into cabin
  • Check headliner below antenna for any water stains or dampness after water test

More procedures for this vehicle

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