This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the power antenna motor assembly on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK with the 3.6L V6 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power antenna motor assembly × 1 — Mopar 68089862AA or equivalent
• Antenna mast (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Ensure ignition is in the OFF position
3. Open tailgate for access to cargo area
4. Remove any cargo or items blocking access to passenger side rear interior panel

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal clamp. Move the cable away from the battery post and secure it so it cannot make contact during the repair.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove cargo area side trim panel
   From inside the cargo area on the passenger side, locate the plastic trim panel covering the rear quarter panel. Remove the plastic push clips and screws securing the trim panel. Carefully pull the panel away from the body to access the antenna motor. Use a trim removal tool if needed to avoid breaking clips.
3. 3

   Disconnect antenna motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the power antenna motor. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight off the motor. Inspect the connector for corrosion or damage.
4. 4

   Disconnect antenna mast from motor
   The antenna mast cable feeds into the top of the motor assembly. Carefully disconnect the antenna mast from the motor housing by releasing any retaining clips or turning the collar counterclockwise (depending on design). Note the routing of the cable for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove ground strap connection
   Locate the ground strap bolt securing the antenna motor ground to the vehicle body. Using a 10mm socket, remove the ground strap bolt. Clean both the ground strap terminal and body contact surface with a wire brush or sandpaper to ensure good electrical contact during reassembly.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt16 Nm (12 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove antenna motor mounting bolts
   Using a 13mm socket, remove the bolts securing the antenna motor assembly to the quarter panel mounting bracket. There are typically three mounting bolts. Support the motor assembly while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove antenna motor assembly
   Carefully pull the antenna motor assembly out of the quarter panel. Maneuver it through the access opening, being careful not to damage the surrounding trim or body panels. Inspect the old motor for any signs of water intrusion or mechanical damage.
8. 8

   Install new antenna motor assembly
   Position the new antenna motor assembly into the quarter panel mounting location. Align the mounting holes with the bracket. Ensure any rubber grommets or seals are properly positioned to prevent water intrusion.
9. 9

   Install mounting bolts
   Thread in all three mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench and 13mm socket, tighten the mounting bolts to specification in a crisscross pattern.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect ground strap
    Position the ground strap onto the clean contact surface on the vehicle body. Install the ground strap bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench and 10mm socket.
    Torque spec

    Ground Strap Bolt16 Nm (12 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Connect antenna mast to motor
    Feed the antenna mast cable into the motor assembly, ensuring it engages properly with the drive mechanism. Secure with the retaining clip or collar. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the connection if desired.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector onto the antenna motor until it clicks into place. Ensure the locking tab is fully engaged. Apply dielectric grease to the connector if operating in harsh conditions.
13. 13

    Reinstall cargo area trim panel
    Position the cargo area side trim panel back into place. Install all push clips and screws to secure the panel. Ensure all clips are fully seated and the panel fits flush with surrounding trim.
14. 14

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal to the battery post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify trim panel is properly secured with all clips engaged
3. Check that antenna mast moves freely and is not binding

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and turn radio on - antenna should extend fully
• Turn radio off - antenna should retract completely into the fender
• Cycle the antenna several times to ensure smooth operation without binding or unusual noise
• Check for any error messages or warnings on the radio display
• Verify no water leaks around the antenna base after the next car wash

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