hey guys has anyone done any experimenting with changing up the antenna? i got a '01 xjr. i use to think that big long antenna was stylish however now im starting to think its tacky haha i didnt exactlly want to put one of those goofy aftermarket antennas on it though and look cheap.? anyone got any ideas

 

I'd really like to put a short little stump antenna on, like from an S2k or something. I hate dealing with auto antennas, especially since mine leaves about 3" up when it goes down. Rather have something that doesn't move. I wish it was just embedded in the glass.

 

I just put a mast kit on mine, works fine.

 

I also would like to know if anyone has made this change. I would really like an antenna that doesn't take away from the sleek, classic lines of our Jags. I have a 2002 XJ, the car is incredible but I am always a little self-conscious of the antenna. If anyone has successfully installed a low-profile antenna, please let me know.

 

Jag 1103 I am with you. I would love to low profile mine also. I just replace the cable about a month ago and was thinking the same thing. Cable replacement was simple and cheap. I got the cable on ebay for 15.00 and it took me about 30 minutes.

 

mine got ripped off of the car going through a car wash, it looks great hahaha

 

I don't mind the auto aerial, mine functions no problem. Every few weeks or so the stereo tells me to clean it and I give it a polish with metal polish, then coat it with WD-40. This helps it operate quickly and quietly without any issues, such as part of it left up or scraping on it's travel.

@ Cerberus
This could be used to help you fix your aerial's problem.

 

FYI Cleaning and Lubricating Antenna

Spray it with WD40 work it around the antenna operate the antenna and wipe it dry then do it again for 3 to 4 times. If your antenna is not broken internally this process will help in making it operate smoothly and consistently. Keeping it clean and dry is what you want to do. WD40 stands for water-displacing and the 40 means it took 40 attempts to create. In your case you need to keep it clean from dirt and the spray will do the rest

 

I've had to replace mine after a mis-adventure in a car wash, but you're right, having that massive mast isn't quite as stylish as more modern alternatives. You could try a mast from a 1998/99 BMW 3 series. I also have an 99 323iC and it has a very flexible black mast about 14 inches high, and that might look reasonably normal on the Jag of the nearly the same vintage. I've been thinking about changing mine out for one.

 

In addition to my previous post I really wouldn't change the mast because it gives such good reception. I had a 1997 Ford Fiesta before my XJ and I regularly drive to Sheffield from Liverpool. I would lose my Liverpool radio station at about Manchester about 35 miles away. However with the XJ I'm still able to get my Liverpool Station in Sheffield 80 miles away!!!! I was very surprised when I noticed this! LOL However my Dad's 2003 MG ZT, which has a rear window aerial, I lose the station around Irlam which is only about 25 miles away. Even though the Jag's aerial is big, at least its hidden when not in use and the car is parked.

 

What is the thing that's actually labeled "High Security Antenna" on the rear window of my 01 XJR? Is it for the phone? Who the hell uses the built-in phone, anyway -- could it be used as the radio antenna?

 

Its for the remote control to unlock and lock the car doors.

 

I agree the stock Jaguar antenna has better reception than most cars.