Operating the Vehicle Audio System

AM and FM radio signals are transmitted by broadcast towers located on the outskirts of cities and are received by the radio antenna of your vehicle. The signal is then processed by the radio system and output through the vehicle speakers.

If your vehicle receives a strong radio signal, the precision engineering of your audio system ensures optimal sound quality. However, received signals can sometimes be weak and distorted due to the distance from the broadcast station, proximity to other strong broadcast signals, or obstructions such as buildings, bridges, or other large objects in the area.

AM broadcast signals provide a wider reception area than FM broadcast signals. This is because AM radio waves are transmitted at low frequencies. These long-range, low-frequency radio waves follow the curvature of the Earth instead of traveling in a straight line. Furthermore, they bend around obstacles, which improves coverage.

FM broadcast signals are transmitted at high frequencies and do not follow the curvature of the Earth. Therefore, they typically begin to lose strength as soon as you move away from the station. In addition, FM signals are easily blocked by buildings, mountains, and other obstacles. Listening conditions may then deteriorate, which may seem like a malfunction of your vehicle radio. The following conditions are normal and do not indicate any problem with the vehicle radio.

• Fading: As you move away from the broadcast station, the received signal weakens and the sound begins to fade. We recommend selecting a stronger station.
• Static/Hiss: Weak FM signals or heavy obstructions between the transmitter and the vehicle radio may interfere with the signal, causing crackling or noise. Reducing the treble level may reduce this effect until the interference disappears.

• Station Switching: If one FM signal becomes weaker, another signal on the same frequency that is stronger may be broadcast nearby, because your vehicle radio is designed to tune to the clearest signal. If applicable, select another station with a stronger signal.
• Multipath Cancellation: Radio signals transmitted along multiple paths may cause distortion or crackling due to direct and reflected signals from the same station, or signals from two stations on the same frequency. If applicable, select another station until the condition is corrected.