Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Aerial system: Introduction
The number of radio services (transmission of messages by radio) in the vehicle is constantly growing: Services for communication, navigation, radio and sensor systems. The number or aerials has also increased in line with the additional radio services.
Depending on the vehicle's equipment specification, not all of the aerials described here may be fitted. Attention will be drawn to differences due to certain equipment combinations or national versions.
In principle, radio services can be separated into terrestrial services and satellite services. Terrestrial radio services are broadcast via ground aerials (stationary aerials for terrestrial reception).
Terrestrial services include:
- AM-FM radio transmitters (analogue)
- DVB-T (Digital Video Broadcasting - Terrestrial)
- TV transmitters (analogue)
- DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting). DAB makes digital radio reception possible.
- GSM dual band 900/1800 MHz (for mobile phones)
Satellite services include:
- GPS (signals for navigation)
- SDARS (Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service, US version only)
Aerials for vehicle systems (the aerials themselves are not dealt with in this SBT):
- Aerials for remote control or Comfort Access
- Bluetooth aerial for connecting mobile phones to the vehicle
Most aerials are integrated in the rod aerial, roof-mounted aerial, side window and in the rear window.
- E93
The E93 (Convertible) has no visible aerials apart from the SDARS aerial (US version) on the tailgate.
Different aerials are used for radio reception depending on the position of the convertible hardtop (closed or open).
Convertible hardtop closed:
- Radio reception using aerials (AM, FM 1, FM 3) in the rear window
Convertible hardtop open:
- Radio reception using aerials (AM, FM 1) in the rear left side trim and the aerial (FM 3) in the rear right side trim
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.