I have a 02 mini S with the stock radio. It had a 6cd changer I removed to add an iPod integration unit. I use to get good AM reception but it slowly has gotten worse, this started before I installed the Dice unit. It has reached the point that AM is unusable and I am starting to get noise through my Dice unit when my iPod is plugged in.
The Mini has 50,000 miles on it I tried new plugs but this did not help. I have Nology Hot Wires - High Perf. Plug Wires that are about 4 years old I have tried grounding then in a new spot with no change.
If any one can help I sure would appreciate it.
Thanks

P.S. my wife’s Sequoia has a hum all the time FM and AM and I have not touched it, maybe its me?

 

Interesting that you have the nology wires. I just put some on about 1k miles ago and have now noticed that my AM reception has gone pooey as well during that time.

I didn't associate the two items being related until now that i've read your comments.

I did change where I was grounding the nology wires (to the bottom ic mounts) and checked to make sure there was continuity to the actual nology grounding wire and the car grounding wire (left side of engine bay).


Has anyone else with nology wires expierence the same problem?

 

Does the hum change pitch with engine speed? If so then it could be your alternator, if not then try changing your spark plug wires back to OEM type.

 

Yes the hum does change pitch with engine speed and goes away when the motor is switched off. If it’s the alternator can I fix it or does it need to be replacing?
Thanks.