HOW TO: Install a GPS antenna in an '04 Jeep Liberty

[roadrunner]

The objective here is to mount the GPS/Nav. antenna on top of the instrument cluster assembly and underneath the instrument cluster cowling. This procedure shows how to access the 7 screws that retain that cowling. (Steps 2 through 5 also apply to accessing the instrument cluster for removal/repair).

Note: The factory recommends disconnecting the battery prior to this work to disable the airbag system.

Recommended tools are shown. The plastic putty knife sibstitutes for the recommended "trim stick" c-4755; 1/4 drive sockets are 7mm and 7/32 deep (substitute for metric equivalent)

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1. Follow the radio removal procedure posted elsewhere in this section.

2. Remove both 'A' pillar trim pieces, unscrewing 2 hex bolts on each handle. Note -- older models may use Torx screws.

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3. Snap off dash trim piece as shown. Use the Chrysler trim tool (or substitute). This will expose the top 3 screws.

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4. Locate front trim bezels on either side of the steering wheel. Snap these off. Each side reveals 2 screws.

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5. With all 7 screws removed, carefully maneuver the cowling clear and remove. It may help to lower the steering wheel height adjustment if you have one.


6. Install the antenna, using double sided tape, as shown (sorry about the picture quality here). Secure the wire to prevent rattling. Coil (without kinking) any surplus wire in the side of the radio compartment.
View from the front (through windshield):

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View from the driver's seat:

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7. Install all the trim pieces in the reverse order.

8. Plug into the back of your radio/nav unit and continue with radio installation.

Piece of cake!

 

[jjo]

The GPS antenna doesn't need to be "exposed" to the sky? It can be covered and still work? Is this where its intended to be mounted?

 

[roadrunner]

antenna location

This is the factory location. It looks up through the plastic dash cover and windshield. Perhaps the size of the antena pod makes up for any loss through these materials? One of the screen readouts indicates how many satellites the nav unit is currently receiving. I get all 8 -- have had no problems with reception!

 

[Corwyyn]

I placed my Garmin V about 10" from that location and have no problems with satellite reception. The plastic and glass are completely invisible to the radio signals from the satellites; metal would be a different story. In fact, the small metal plate that the antenna is mounted to most likely acts as a reflector to slightly increase signal reception.

 

[Lumpy]

GPS Install in '05 Liberty

=P~

Hey roadrunner,

Your instructions worked like a charm. I was lucky enough to be given the stock GPS radio and had it installed in an hour.

I don't have the software for it, but I assume the latest release from NAVTECH (Mopar Part #PN05064033AC) will work.

 

[beartard]

I placed my Garmin V about 10" from that location and have no problems with satellite reception. The plastic and glass are completely invisible to the radio signals from the satellites; metal would be a different story. In fact, the small metal plate that the antenna is mounted to most likely acts as a reflector to slightly increase signal reception.

The metal acts as a ground plane, you ham.

And yes, plastic/glass don't stop satellite signals. That's why you can buy plastic rocks and plastic eave vents for specialized, out-of-sight satellite dish installations. The only caveat would be for people who have metallic coatings on their windshields. I don't think KJs have that stock...and tinting the windshield is illegal in most areas.

 

[Jeff Jot]

um, all the pictures are missing?

 

[tommudd]

um, all the pictures are missing?

16 years ago Photobucket was up, running and playing nice with everyone , after all that time you expect them to be waiting for you?

 

[LibertyTC]

Ya Photobucket got greedy, and wanted us to have paid subscriptions for forums users.
Then they pulled our posted images without notice.
Now we can directly upload our pics thru "Attach Files" or use free IMGUR.