, you can typically access the mounting nut through the interior light panel, avoiding the need to remove the entire headlining.
Installation Guide: Interior Light Access
Remove the Interior Light Lens: Use a small flat-head screwdriver or a plastic trim tool to gently pry the transparent plastic cover off. Start at the end opposite the control switch to avoid damage.
Detach the Light Housing:
Once the lens is off, look for any hidden screws (some models use T-20 or T-25 Torx screws) or metal spring clips.
Release the clips and pull the housing downward.
Unplug the wiring connector to fully remove the unit and clear your workspace.
Unscrew the Aerial Base:
Peering through the opening, you will see a large nut (typically 22mm) securing the aerial base to the roof.
Use a ratchet with a long-reach socket to loosen the nut while holding the base from the outside to prevent it from spinning.
Disconnect the Coaxial Cable: Carefully unplug the antenna wire from the old base. On some models, the wire uses a ring connector that sits under the main nut.
Install the New Base:
Clean the Area: Before fitting the new part, thoroughly clean the roof surface to ensure the new rubber gasket creates a watertight seal.
Feed the Wires: Drop the new base's connector through the hole and align the locating pin if present.
Secure: Hand-tighten the 22mm nut first, then use your ratchet to "nip it up." Do not overtighten, as this can crush the seal or dent the roof.
Reassemble & Test: Reconnect the antenna cable and interior light. Screw your new
85cm whip
onto the base and test your radio reception before snapping the light lens back into place