This is probably a stupid question but has anyone had luck running their radar detector up high, above the rear view mirror, pointed through the FM antenna on the windshield?

Logic tells me this is a really bad idea, but it sure would be a nice mounting position.

Allan

 

I know a few folks running detectors up high like that. None has had an issue. I think what you are calling an FM antenna is really the sensor for the wipers.

 

I agree with ashchuckton. The dots on the glass are nothing and the other stuff if for the auto wipers. I would go up as high as you can and still have it "see" out the rear for detection from behind.

 

On my previous MINI (2011 MCS) I had it above the mirror and it worked with no issue. Though I can't remember if the dots were there or not.

 

No issues here

 

There is no antenna in the windshield. My V1 is by the mirror with no problems.

 

Got it mounted above the mirror and it seems fine, will let you know if I find performance is not what it should be but so far so good. I am pretty sure laser detection is out the window though but I knew that going in to mounting it there.


Allan


PS. Any idea where the FM antenna is if not in the windshield?

 

On mine (2003 R50), it is sticking up from the back of the roof, and part of the signal also
comes from the rear window defrost element.

 

Do you not have an antenna on the roof? What model is you car?

 

I was under the impression that the longer wire antenna that everyone replaces with a stubby was the AM antenna. The fin looking one I thought was the satellite. That led me to guess that all the dots in the front windshield were some form of FM antenna.

Allan

 

Dots are just for decoration.
AM antenna is indeed in the long wire sticking above the roof line (aka remote control antenna;-). FM antenna is in the rear windshield, coupled with the defrost wiring (as has been the case in all bimmers for the past 20+ years).

I place my V1 above and to the left of the rear view mirror, easily within arm's reach (so that I can press the control **** to mute it, as necessary).
You also want to give the rear antenna (in the V1) a clear view through the rear windshield to get maximum sensitivity. This placement works for that purpose as well.

Lastly, I hard wired the power so that it comes on with ignition (IIRC I tapped into map lights). This way you never forget to turn it on or off.

Pics below.

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