How to unscrew the antenna on Grant: complete dismantling instructions

Owners of LADA cars are often faced with the need to replace the standard signal receiver, whether due to its breakdown or the desire to install a more modern model. The question is how to unscrew the antenna on Grant, occurs regularly, since factory elements are often subject to corrosion or mechanical stress. The dismantling process directly depends on the type of equipment installed: pin or fin (shark).

Carrying out this procedure yourself allows you to save money on car service costs and guarantees the accuracy of the work. It is important to understand that inept actions can damage car roof or break the tightness of the body, which will lead to leaks. In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for different types of antennas, the necessary tools and nuances that are silent about in the official manuals.

Before you begin, you need to prepare your work area and make sure you have all the components. Do not ignore safety precautions, as working with metal and electrical components requires care. The threaded connection of the standard antenna on the Grant often gets stuck, so without penetrating lubricant (WD-40) the process can take a long time.

Determining the type of antenna device

The first step is a visual inspection and classification of the equipment. On Lada Granta In different years of production, various modifications of signal receivers were installed. Whip antennas, as a rule, have a threaded mount and are unscrewed directly from the outside. The fin structures, reminiscent of a shark's fin, are bolted from inside the cabin or snapped on, requiring partial disassembly of the headliner.

If you have an active antenna installed (with an amplifier), then in addition to mechanical dismantling, you will need to disconnect the electrical connector. Passive models lack this element and are easier to remove. Determining the device type is critical to selecting a disassembly and tooling strategy. A mistake at this stage can lead to an attempt to rip off the bolts where you just need to unscrew the threads.

In some configurations there are combined antennas designed not only for radio, but also for GPS/GLONASS navigation. Such modules often have a more complex mounting system and additional wires. Carefully examine the base of the device before starting active operations.

• 🔍 Whip antenna - a classic version with a threaded connection, often found in basic configurations.
• 🦈 Fin antenna - modern design, bolted from the interior, often combined with navigation.
• ⚡ Active antenna - requires a power connection, has a built-in signal amplifier.
• 📡 Passive antenna - does not require power, the signal is amplified in the head unit (radio).

It is worth noting that on restyled models the fastening design may have undergone changes. If you are the owner of a car manufactured after 2018, it is recommended that you first study the forums or manuals specifically for your body modification (liftback or sedan). This will help avoid surprises during the work process.

Necessary tools and preparation

To perform the task efficiently, you will need a minimum set of tools, which most car enthusiasts can find in their garage. The main requirement is that the tool must be in good working order and match the dimensions of the fasteners so as not to tear off the edges. To work with electrical work, you will also need insulating materials.

It is important to purchase automotive sealant in advance. After dismantling the old antenna and before installing a new one, it is necessary to ensure reliable waterproofing of the hole in the roof. Using low-quality sealant can lead to moisture entering the interior and metal corrosion.

The list of required equipment includes:

• 🛠️ Set of open-end and spanner wrenches (main sizes 10, 13 mm).
• 🔧 Flat and Phillips screwdrivers for working with trim and clamps.
• 🧴 Penetrating lubricant (WD-40 or equivalent) for treating soured threads.
• 🧽 Surface degreaser (anti-silicone) to prepare space for sealant.

It is better to carry out work in a dry room or in a garage so that moisture does not enter the interior when the antenna is removed. If this is not possible, choose a day without precipitation. It is also recommended to remove the terminal from the battery if you plan to work with active antenna wiring to avoid short circuits.

Removing the whip antenna

Removing the whip-type antenna is the simplest option and does not require disassembling the interior. In most cases, it is simply screwed into a base attached to the roof. However, if the antenna cannot be removed, do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the body.

The process begins by treating the thread joint with a penetrating lubricant. Let the mixture work for 10-15 minutes to dissolve rust and dirt. After this, you can try unscrewing the antenna counterclockwise.

⚠️ Attention: If the antenna cannot be unscrewed by hand, use an adjustable wrench or special pullers, but be sure to wrap the base of the antenna with a rag so as not to scratch the paintwork of the roof.

After successfully dismantling the external element, it is often necessary to remove the metal sleeve (base) itself if you plan to replace it with a different type. This may require access from the interior, but on many Granta models the base is held on a nut under the headliner, which can be reached by slightly bending the edge.