1995-1998 Audi A6 Power Antenna: A Guide to Replacement
If your Audi's power antenna is stuck, noisy, or broken, this guide explains your options for getting it working again.
- The most common failure is a broken plastic mast cord, not a dead motor. If you hear the motor run, you may only need to replace the mast.
- For this model year, a new aftermarket assembly from a brand like URO Parts is the most practical option if the entire unit needs replacement.
- Replacement is a manageable DIY job, requiring removal of some trunk trim to access the assembly.
- No specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) exist for the power antenna on the 1995-1998 Audi A6.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Power Antenna
When the power antenna on a C4-generation Audi A6 begins to fail, the signs are usually obvious. Understanding them can help you decide whether you need a simple mast replacement or a complete new assembly.
- Grinding or Clicking Noises: You may hear a grinding or rapid clicking sound from the rear of the car for a few seconds after turning the radio on or off. This usually means the motor is working, but the teeth on the nylon mast cable are stripped or broken, and the motor gear is slipping.
- Antenna Mast Stays Down: If you hear the motor running but the antenna doesn't go up, the internal nylon cord has likely snapped completely.
- Antenna Mast Stays Up: A mast that won't retract is often bent, preventing it from sliding back into the housing. It can also be caused by a broken drive cord that has jammed the mechanism.
- No Sound and No Movement: If there is no sound from the antenna motor at all, the motor itself has likely failed or is not receiving power. This requires replacing the entire antenna assembly.
Is it the Mast or the Motor?
The most common point of failure is not the motor, but the flexible plastic drive cable (mast) that is attached to the antenna mast. If you can hear the motor running, you can often solve the problem by just replacing the mast, which is much cheaper and easier than replacing the whole unit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
For a vehicle of this age, finding a new original equipment (OEM) power antenna assembly from Audi is unlikely. The main options are a new aftermarket assembly or a replacement mast.
Aftermarket Assemblies: URO Parts
URO Parts is a common aftermarket brand that produces full replacement power antenna assemblies for the 1995-1998 A6. These are designed to be a direct, plug-and-play replacement for the original factory unit.
- Quality: Aftermarket parts from brands like URO are a cost-effective solution. While some users report mixed experiences with the brand on more critical engine or suspension components, for a part like a power antenna, they are often considered a suitable replacement. They are manufactured to match original dimensions for an easier installation.
- Value: Given the age of the car, a new aftermarket assembly is often the most practical and available choice if your motor has failed.
Replacement Masts
If your motor works, just replacing the mast is your best bet. Aftermarket masts are widely available and inexpensive. The key is to ensure the new mast's drive cable is identical to the old one.
A Note on In-Glass Antennas
Some Audi A6 models of this era used an antenna integrated into the rear window glass with an amplifier. This guide is for the motorized, telescoping mast antenna located on the rear quarter panel, not the in-glass system.
Replacement Cost Comparison
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Assembly | Likely Discontinued |
| New Aftermarket Assembly (URO Parts) | $69 - $76 |
| New Aftermarket Mast Only | $14 - $25 |
| Shop Labor (Full Assembly) | $100 - $180 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a new power antenna myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-friendly job for most home mechanics. Replacing the full assembly requires removing some trunk liner panels to access the mounting bolts and electrical connectors. You will need basic hand tools. Replacing just the mast is even easier and often doesn't require removing the motor from the car.
Why did my antenna mast break?
The most common cause is age. The plastic drive cord becomes brittle over time and eventually snaps. The second most common cause is physical damage, such as forgetting to retract it in an automatic car wash, which can bend the mast and cause it to jam and strip the drive cable.
Can I just install a fixed, non-power antenna?
Yes. Many companies sell universal or fixed rubber antennas. This can be a cheap and permanent solution if you don't want to worry about a power antenna motor failing again. However, it will require custom wiring and mounting to fit in place of the original power unit.
My mast is just bent. Can I straighten it?
It is not recommended. Once a telescoping mast section is bent, it is nearly impossible to straighten it perfectly. It will likely bind and jam inside the antenna housing, which can lead to the drive cable stripping or the motor burning out.
Technical Specifications
Telescoping power antenna with toothed nylon drive cable.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Audi A6: