BMW iX3 DAB Radio Problems: Signal Issues & Solutions

I have some experience with car electronics, and I had a similar issue with my 2019 BMW iX models (I also test drove the i4 before buying). The radio/DAB reception problem was driving me crazy, exact same symptoms you're describing. Took it to my regular workshop, and they diagnosed a faulty antenna module. Got it replaced and everything works perfectly now. The whole thing cost me 255 Euro including labor, but it was worth every penny. The techs mentioned these antenna issues aren't uncommon in electric BMWs from that generation. Could you share your current mileage and whether you've noticed any specific patterns when the reception issues occur? Like, does it happen more when you're driving or when stationary? This info would help me give you more specific advice based on what I learned from my experience. Hope this helps! Let me know if you need more details about the repair process.

Thanks for the detailed response! I had my latest service just 2 months ago at 114,521 KM, and funny enough, they didn't catch this issue during the inspection. The reception problems seem worst when I'm driving at higher speeds, but lately it's been acting up even when parked. Your antenna module fix sounds promising, I'll definitely bring this up with the service center. Did your techs have to do any software updates along with the module replacement?

Hey there again! Yes, you're right to ask about the software, this detail totally slipped my mind in my first response. In my case, after replacing the antenna module, they actually did need to perform a software update to get everything working properly. It was part of the whole repair process. When they first replaced just the module, I still had some minor reception problems. The tech told me the new module needed proper "handshaking" with the car's system, which required a software update. After both hardware and software were sorted, the reception has been crystal clear, even at high speeds. Interesting that your issues get worse at higher speeds, that's exactly what happened with mine too. The fact that it's now happening while parked definitely sounds like the same antenna module problem I had. Since you mentioned your recent service, I'd say definitely push them on this. Show them the error messages if you can, maybe take some photos or videos of when it happens. My techs were initially skeptical too until I showed them concrete evidence. By the way, after the fix, I haven't had a single reception issue in the past 8 months. The software update took about an hour, and they kept my car for about half a day total to complete everything. Would love to hear how it goes when you get it checked out!

Thanks so much for all this fantastic info! I've just scheduled an appointment with my service center for next week. I've been taking videos of the error messages and reception problems for the past few days, especially during highway driving, so I'll definitely show those to the techs. Really appreciate you mentioning the software update part, that's super helpful to know, and I'll make sure they don't skip that step. The fact that you haven't had any issues for 8 months after the fix is really encouraging. I was worried this might be some ongoing problem that would keep coming back. Half a day at the service center isn't too bad either, I was expecting it might take longer. I'll definitely update you once I get it sorted. Thanks again for sharing your experience, it's made me feel much more confident about getting this fixed!