Antenna Coaxial Cable Testing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Montana, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2003 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Use the appropriate chart and diagram to test the antenna coaxial cable resistances for the antenna coaxial cable resistances for the antenna system on the vehicle. Refer to the table when testing the antenna and/or lead-in cable.

Important: Always zero out the DMM before taking a resistance measurement in order to ensure an accurate reading.

Fig 1: Measuring Resistance From Negative Battery Cable To Coaxial Cable

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Fig 2: Resistance Measuring Chart

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Measure the resistance from the coax center conductor to antenna mast. (Ohmmeter probes at point 2 and 7)
Total resistance of center conductor from end to end (Ohmmeter probes at points 2 and 5):
- RG-58/RG-59 type cable - less than 0.20 ohms
- RG-62/RG-62M type cable - less than 3.5 ohms
When checking the resistance, cautiously wiggle the lead-in tip and cable, Refer to INTERMITTENT OR POOR CONNECTIONS in Wiring Systems.
Replace the antenna and/or lead-in cable when the above readings are not obtained. Refer to ANTENNA CABLE REPLACEMENT for service procedure.