radio interference from headlights - help!

[Yamazaki]

So the Forester has an issue where the radio is nice and clear.... until I turn on the lights. Then a noticeable amount of static comes in. This only happens when I turn the lights to the driving lights position, full on position, or turn on the top column switch. I've checked and double checked the connections on the radio, antenna, and antenna amplifier. I don't know what it could be. It has been suggested that it may be the integrated body unit, but I don't have any other vehicles that have one so I cannot switch it out until I get my hands on one. Anybody else have any ideas?

[Reason]

Sounds like a grounding issue.

[Odycee]

Check ground wire attach to your radio mount/frame loose or missing. If you have HID, check those grounds too.

[Yamazaki]

I don't have HIDs, and I've checked all the grounds of the system. Would it help if I added a grounding kit?

[Reason]

It wouldn't hurt...

[Yamazaki]

Okay, I installed a grounding kit. It didn't hurt, but it didn't really help either (with my radio problem anyway). Should I run a direct connection from the headunit to the negative terminal on the battery or would that not do anything? Are there any other ideas? It's freaking annoying to not be able to play the radio whenever the lights are on....

[Subafreak]

Where is the antenna on that year forester?

[Yamazaki]

The rear driver side window. There is also an antenna amplifier (I think) right by the antenna, but I can't read that it gets any power with my multimeter. It must be working though, since I get no radio signal if I unplug it.

[Subafreak]

Hmm. You check under the rear seat area and right rear sill plate for rodent activity?

It's doesn't look like the body module ties into the radio at all. And the only point any illumination is involved is at the head unit.
Is it a factory radio?

[rkrenicki]

He had the same issue with both the factory radio, and the Kenwood navigation unit, so it is not the radio itself that is having the issue.

[Yamazaki]

I know the rear seat area is clear of issues; I removed them to install and run the wires for the rearview camera.
Now that I've solved the wind noise issue, I REALLY want the radio to work whenever I want it.
I've contemplated wiring the taillights in with the DRL and just leaving the lights "off", but that would be ridiculous and I'd rather not do that.

[Wiscon_Mark]

Maybe try installing a filter inline with all of your power sources to the HU and see if that helps?

My 03 does not have this issue, aftermarket JVC unit installed.

The only TSB I've seen on an issue like this is the rear defogger causing problems with the antenna.

[Regardie]

There is a TSB about the rear defogger and the radio? My 2000 Sedan does that and it is quite annoying. The defogger and the antenna share the rear window in my car and every time the defogger is turned on the radio goes to static. It sucks.

[Yamazaki]

Maybe try installing a filter inline with all of your power sources to the HU and see if that helps?

My 03 does not have this issue, aftermarket JVC unit installed.

The only TSB I've seen on an issue like this is the rear defogger causing problems with the antenna.
Well, the antenna on the Forester is on a different window than the defogger. Also, I just checked and the defogger has no effect on the radio.

I am curious about this "filter" you speak of. What is it?

[Wiscon_Mark]

It was a recall for all models, but obviously it's not affecting you if you have it off and still have the issue.

I'm not necessarily recommending any of these, but here are some examples:

http://www.amazon.com/Pyramid-NS12-InLi ... ine+filter (http://www.amazon.com/Pyramid-NS12-InLine-Noise-Suppressor/dp/B0007V5X4U/ref=sr_1_2?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1420683229&sr=1-2&keywords=noise+line+filter)

http://www.amazon.com/Metra-AX-ANR1000- ... ine+filter (http://www.amazon.com/Metra-AX-ANR1000-Line-Noise-Filter/dp/B0049MUYA6/ref=sr_1_6?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1420683229&sr=1-6&keywords=noise+line+filter)


There is a TSB about the rear defogger and the radio? My 2000 Sedan does that and it is quite annoying. The defogger and the antenna share the rear window in my car and every time the defogger is turned on the radio goes to static. It sucks.

Yes, it's here: http://www.cars101.com/recalls.html


Customer complaint of radio static when the radio and rear window defogger are on at the same time, there is the possibility of a break in one or more of the defogger grids. When the grid is broken, a high resistance field is created at the break point which can create static on some radio stations. The level of resistance is usually high enough to create a field of interference which projects out from the glass. The break can be detected visually or by using a portable radio.
Using a portable radio, set the radio to the same frequency and station being disturbed by static. From the outside of the vehicle, slowly move the radio’s antenna across the defogger grids. When interference is encountered, inspect that specific area closely for a break. Depending upon the size of the break, a magnifying glass and/or eyeloupe may be required.
Once the break is identified, it should be repaired using the Permatex® repair kit instead of replacing the rear glass. Note: Make sure to carefully read and follow the instructions
and precautions that are included with the Permatex® repair kit.
Permatex® Quick Grid™ Rear Window Defogger Repair Kit, part # 15067, used for repairing damaged rear window defogger grids, is available at local automotive parts stores.

[Yamazaki]

I will try that, thanks.

[Regardie]

I know I have a break in one of the rear defroster lines as I can see it not work every time I use it. Now to find the time and a sunny day for the fix.

Thanks