This procedure covers removal and replacement of the roof-mounted antenna assembly on the 2021-2024 Ford F-150, including disconnecting the antenna cable and installing a new antenna mast or base.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface in clean, dry location
2. Ensure ignition is off and key is removed
3. Gather all tools and replacement parts
4. Inspect new antenna assembly to confirm correct application

Procedure

1. 1

   Access headliner at antenna location
   From inside the vehicle, locate the antenna base position on the headliner near the rear of the cab roof. This is typically above the rear seats on crew cab models or toward the rear on other cab configurations. The antenna cable runs through the headliner to the radio module.
2. 2

   Remove headliner trim panel
   Using plastic trim removal tools, carefully pry down the headliner grab handle cover or trim panel closest to the antenna mounting location. Start at one end and work around the perimeter, releasing the retaining clips. Lower the headliner panel enough to access the antenna cable connector. Note the routing of any wiring harnesses in this area.
3. 3

   Disconnect antenna cable
   Locate the antenna coaxial cable connector attached to the antenna base. Press the locking tab or rotate the connector counterclockwise (depending on connector type) and pull straight down to disconnect. If connector is tight, gently wiggle while pulling. Do not pull on the cable itself.
4. 4

   Remove antenna mast
   From outside the vehicle, unscrew the antenna mast from the base by turning counterclockwise. If the mast is stuck due to corrosion or road debris, apply penetrating oil and allow to sit for 5 minutes before attempting removal. Use a rag for grip if needed, but avoid excessive force that could damage the base threads.
5. 5

   Remove antenna base mounting fastener
   Using a 10mm socket with short extension, remove the antenna base mounting nut or bolt from the underside (accessed through the headliner opening). The fastener secures the antenna base to the roof panel. Hold the antenna base from the outside to prevent spinning while removing the fastener.
6. 6

   Remove antenna base from roof
   From outside the vehicle, lift the antenna base assembly straight up and out of the roof opening. The gasket/seal may be stuck to the roof panel. If necessary, gently pry the base while maintaining even upward pressure. Inspect the roof opening for any rust, damage, or debris.
7. 7

   Clean mounting surface
   Clean the roof panel surface around the antenna mounting hole using a clean rag and isopropyl alcohol. Remove any old gasket material, adhesive residue, or corrosion. Ensure the surface is completely dry before installing the new antenna. Inspect the paint condition and touch up if necessary to prevent future corrosion.
8. 8

   Install new antenna base
   Position the new gasket/seal on the antenna base if not pre-installed. From outside the vehicle, insert the antenna base assembly into the roof opening, ensuring the gasket seats properly against the roof panel. Align the mounting hole with the threaded stud or bolt hole. The cable connector should be accessible from inside through the headliner opening.
9. 9

   Secure antenna base mounting fastener
   From inside the vehicle, thread the mounting nut or bolt onto the antenna base stud by hand until finger-tight. Using a 10mm socket, tighten the fastener while holding the antenna base from outside to prevent rotation. Ensure the gasket compresses evenly and the base sits flush with the roof panel. Do not overtighten as this can crack the base or distort the gasket.
10. 10

    Connect antenna cable
    Push the coaxial cable connector straight onto the antenna base connector until it clicks or seats fully. If equipped with a threaded connector, rotate clockwise until hand-tight. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the connection if desired for corrosion protection. Gently tug the cable to verify secure connection.
11. 11

    Install antenna mast
    From outside the vehicle, thread the new antenna mast clockwise into the antenna base. Hand-tighten only until snug. Do not use tools as this can strip the threads or damage the mast. Ensure the mast is vertical and properly seated.
12. 12

    Reinstall headliner trim
    Route the antenna cable back to its original position. Align the headliner trim panel with the mounting locations and press firmly around the perimeter to re-engage all retaining clips. Verify all clips are seated and the panel sits flush. Replace any damaged clips that were broken during removal.

Reassembly

1. Ensure antenna cable is properly routed without sharp bends or pinch points
2. Verify headliner panel is fully seated with all clips engaged
3. Check that antenna mast is vertical and secure

Verification

• Turn ignition to accessory mode and power on the radio
• Test AM and FM radio reception by scanning through multiple stations
• Verify signal strength is consistent and comparable to pre-repair performance
• Inspect antenna base from outside for proper seating and no gap around gasket
• Check headliner for proper alignment and no sagging at repair area
• If equipped with satellite radio, verify XM/SiriusXM reception is functional

More procedures for this vehicle