Car Stereos: car antenna, mercedes c 280, power antennas

Question
Scott,

I have a 1995 Mercedes (C 280) that I baby. The power antenna went about a year ago (wouldn't  go completely down), I took it to a local car radio dealer and they put in a new power antenna. Less than a year later the new antenna stays up, I brought the car back to them and they said the antenna motor is shot. Of course they next told me the warranty for the power antenna I bought was ninety days. My question should a power antenna last only a year? And is a ninety day warranty right? Like I said this car gets no abuse, the winter in CT was not that bad, I'm the only driver and I'm in my mid fiftys.

Thanks
the other
Scott

Answer
A power antenna should last longer than a year.  You are definitely on the right track about the weather and usage.  Most aftermarket electronic equipment only have 30 - 90 day warranties.  The namebrand items will carry 1 year warranties, but that is about it.  Most power antennas are not made very well.  They have weak motors and no clutches.  Living in the north, I would guess that the car may have iced over once and wouldn't let the antenna up.  With a cheap antenna, there are no clutches, so the motor just tried to go until it overheated and melted inside.  It just takes one time.  Many times the dealer carries the best warranty for repairs.  I know they charge twice as much, but you may get up to 3 year warranty.  If that is not an option, then I would call around to a few stereo shops and ask about their power antennas and warranties.  There are a few shops that will offer a better warranty than provided by the manufacturer.  Also, there are different grades of equipment, and you should be able to find a power antenna with a clutch or a resettable breaker.  Most audio equipment is you-get-what-you-pay-for.  Hope this helps, Scott