How to Replace a Power Antenna on a Pathfinder

by Dustin Thornton

Some models of Nissan Pathfinders come equipped with a power antenna that raises or lowers automatically when you turn the radio on or off. The power antenna in the Pathfinder is composed of two parts: the antenna mast and the electric motor that raises or lowers the mast. Over time the toothed plastic cable that controls the antenna mast can wear out or become damaged, causing the power antenna to stop working.

Step 1

Grasp the nut at the base of the antenna housing on the outside of the Pathfinder front passenger-side fender with a pair of pliers. Turn counterclockwise to loosen the nut and remove it.

Step 2

Have an assistant place the key in the ignition and switch it to the "On" position, then press the "Power" button on the radio to turn the radio on and engage the power antenna.

Step 3

Grasp the antenna mast and lift straight up to remove it while the antenna motor is running. Make a note of which direction the teeth on the plastic cable from the old mast face.

Step 4

Insert the plastic cable from the base of the new antenna mast into the hole in the power antenna motor as far as possible, facing the teeth of the new antenna mast cable in the same direction as the teeth from the old antenna mast cable. This ensures the plastic cable properly lines up with the electric motor track.

Step 5

Insert the base of the antenna mast into the hole in the power antenna motor.

Step 6

Have your assistant press the radio's "Power" button to turn off the radio to engage the motor, while you support the antenna until it retracts completely.