Nissan Repair: Replacing power antenna on 96 maxima, power antenna, nissan maxima

Question
How do I replace the power antenna on a 96 Nissan maxima? The mast stays up and won't retract, although I hear the motor running to lower.

Answer
Greg,

You can go to Pep Boys and get an antenna replacement mast that has the plastic drive cable.  Then remove your antenna and dissassemble it to get the old cable unwound.  THen install the new antenna and plug your harness back in and the unit will wind the new cable into the motor.  It takes a couple of times to cycle the antenna before the mast goes completely down.  Or, you could purchase a new antenna for about $150 bucks.  The mast replacement is under $40 bucks so it is what you are comfortable with in price and labor.  You will have to remove the trunk liner to get access and it takes a ten millimeter to remove the bracket for the antenna and a thin tool to unscrew where it comes through the fender.