How Radio Reception Works

FM Reception

AM and FM radio signals are broadcast from transmitter towers located around your city. They are picked up by the radio antenna on your vehicle. This signal is then received by the radio and sent to the speakers of your vehicle.

When a strong radio signal reaches your vehicle, the precision engineering of your audio system provides the best possible sound quality. However, in some cases the signal received by your vehicle may not be strong and clear.

This may be caused by factors such as distance from the radio station, proximity to other strong radio stations, or buildings, bridges or other large obstacles in the area.

AM (MW, LW) Reception

AM broadcasts can be received over greater distances than FM broadcasts. This is because AM radio waves are transmitted at low frequencies. These long, low-frequency radio waves can follow the curvature of the Earth rather than travel straight into the atmosphere. In addition, they bend around obstacles, so they can provide better signal coverage.

FM Radio Station

FM broadcasts are transmitted at high frequencies and do not bend to follow the surface of the earth. Because of this, FM transmissions usually begin to fade over short distances from the station. In addition, FM signals are easily affected by buildings, mountains or other obstacles.

This may result in certain listening conditions that may lead you to believe there is a problem with your radio. The following conditions are normal and do not indicate a problem with the radio:

• Fading: As your vehicle moves away from a radio station, the signal will weaken and the sound will begin to fade. When this occurs, we suggest you select another, stronger station.
• Flutter/Static: Weak FM signals or large obstacles between the transmitter and your radio may interfere with the signal, causing static or fluttering noise. Reducing the treble level may reduce this effect until the interference passes.

• Station Switching: As the FM signal weakens, another, stronger signal on the same frequency may begin to play. This is because your radio is designed to lock onto the clearest signal. If this happens, select another station with a stronger signal.
• Multipath Cancellation: Signals received from multiple directions may cause distortion or fluttering. This may be caused by a direct and reflected signal from the same station, or by signals from two stations with close frequencies. If this occurs, select another station until the condition passes.

Using a Cellular Phone or Two-Way Radio

When a cellular phone is used inside the vehicle, noise may come from the audio system. This does not mean there is a problem with the audio equipment. In this case, use the cellular phone as far away from the audio equipment as possible.

NOTICE

When a communication system such as a cellular phone or two-way radio is used inside the vehicle, a separate external antenna must be installed. If a cellular phone or two-way radio is used with only the internal antenna, it may interfere with the vehicle electrical system and adversely affect the safe operation of the vehicle.

WARNING

Do not use a cellular phone while driving. Stop in a safe location to use the cellular phone.