Volkswagen Caddy Maxi, 2.0TD (110 hp), М6
- Manufacturer — Volkswagen Poznan Ltd, Poland
- Year of issue – 2013
- In operation “Behind the wheel” – from July 2013
- Mileage at time of report – 190,000 km
The radio had fallen quiet recently, a quiet symptom that often points to the antenna system or its wiring. The owner suspected a fault up the chain, starting with the antenna and then tracing the signal path through the most likely points of failure. In the end, the curious search led to the antenna itself and its mounting—something that can be tucked away in the outer left mirror, up high near the glass where cold weather and road spray can do their damage.
To reach the antenna module, it was necessary to dismantle the entire rear tailgate area. Upon opening and examining the assembly, cracks became visible in the amplifier housing. These small fractures explained the poor signal reception: water ingress had caused oxidation of several components, degrading performance and dulling the radio’s ability to pick up stations.
As is often the case with older models, the module proved non-repairable and had to be replaced. A fresh unit starts at around 6,000 rubles, which feels steep for a nine-year-old vehicle and its aging electrical system. This reality pushes owners to look for used modules when taking apart the tailgate area or to consider alternative antenna installation options that could restore reception without breaking the bank.
In practice, the choice comes down to two paths: locate a used antenna module in good condition or explore a robust alternative antenna installation that can deliver reliable reception without the high price tag of a factory-new unit. Either option requires careful verification of compatibility with the specific trim and radio configuration to avoid further headaches down the line.
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