SQ7 Infotainment Dead: Audio Failures and FM Issues

The symptoms you describe with poor signal and radio interference match what I experienced with my 2017 Q8. The root cause was a failing antenna ground connection combined with deteriorated antenna amplifier module. Car radio issues often start subtly but can indicate bigger electrical problems. In my case, the FM signal got progressively weaker over several weeks. The service center diagnosed it through their testing equipment, revealing multiple stored fault codes related to the antenna system. The fix required: Replacing the antenna amplifier module, Resealing the antenna base mount, Reestablishing proper ground connection, Full system reset and adaptation This was not a quick fix as it required partial headliner removal to access components. The signal strength improved dramatically after repair. These antenna issues are relatively common in this platform and should be addressed promptly to prevent damage to other connected systems. Worth noting that infotainment glitches and signal problems often point to antenna system faults rather than the head unit itself. A proper diagnosis using manufacturer-specific diagnostic equipment is essential to pinpoint the exact failure point.

Thanks for the detailed explanation of the antenna and car radio issues. It matches what my SQ7 was experiencing with the FM signal problems and infotainment errors. I got it fixed last month using similar steps to what you outlined. I am really curious about the repair costs in your case since these fixes can vary quite a bit at different shops. Have any other electrical gremlins shown up since the antenna system repair? The signal strength in my case has been rock solid after the fix, but I keep watching for any new warning messages just in case.

After getting the antenna system repaired at the dealer, I paid 255 Euro for the complete fix including parts and labor. The investment was worth it as the FM signal has been perfect since then with no radio interference whatsoever. The car radio now picks up stations clearly that were previously just static. The repair included a new antenna amplifier and proper grounding work, which resolved all the stored fault codes. Over six months later, the signal strength remains excellent with no new electrical issues or warning messages appearing. Unlike some quick fixes that only mask symptoms, addressing the root cause with the antenna ground and amplifier seems to have completely eliminated the poor signal problems. The infotainment system now works flawlessly. These antenna issues are indeed common on our platform, but once properly fixed, they tend to stay fixed.

Finally got the chance to test the repair results over several weeks of driving. The mechanic diagnosed and fixed the exact same antenna ground and signal amplifier issues mentioned. Total cost came to 310 Euro, which seems fair given the extensive work needed to access the components. The car radio reception is crystal clear now, picking up stations I could barely hear before. No more error messages or system crashes since they installed the new antenna booster and properly sealed all connections. The vehicle electronics seem totally stable. Really glad I went with a specialist shop that properly diagnosed the antenna system rather than just resetting codes like my previous mechanic. The thorough fix took longer but solved the problem completely. No electrical gremlins or poor signals after 2 months of daily driving. The improvement in audio quality alone made it worthwhile.