Audio Systems: AM/FM Reception, stereo reception, cheap test

Question
I purchased a 1998 Honda Accord LX 2-Door about 6 months ago.  The AM/FM reception has been poor at best since I purchased the car.  There is no visible antenna - is it incorporated in the rear window defrost?  Regardless, is there an easy way to diagnose the cause of this issue?  If you recommend plugging in a cheap antenna (as you have for other people) what is the best way to reach the back of the factory stereo?

Answer
Micky,
On some vehicles you can reach up under the dash and unplug the antenna lead, however most vehicles have too many things in the way to do so. You may need to pull the stereo out of the dash to gain access to the rear of the stereo. If you plug in a cheap test antenna and the reception improves greatly, you may want to install an electrical telescoping antenna for the best stereo reception possible.

TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net