Many universal aftermarket antennas boast better reception capabilities than their OEM counterparts. Bad reception, bent antennas, loose connections or switching to a smaller profile antenna are all viable reasons for wanting to change from the OEM antenna to a universal aftermarket antenna. When installing a new antenna, generally you'll be installing it in the same place that the factory antenna used to be; but in some instances, you could be required to move the antenna. If the antenna needs to be moved, you'll need to be comfortable drilling a hole in the exterior of your Elantra.
Disconnect the negative terminal of your battery by unscrewing it from the negative battery post.
Select a location to install your new antenna. The location needs to be metal to allow for grounding. The location should also be within 40 inches of your head unit for the best reception.
Drill a ¼ inch hole at your location. Be sure to know the area you are drilling into to make sure you don't damage any vital components of your vehicle.
Use a file to remove the rough edges from the hole. Place a dime-sized amount of weatherproof sealant under the base of the antenna.
Slide the base of the antenna through the hole. Attach the antenna cord, washer and nut on the other side of the frame. Most commonly, this occurs inside the trunk. The antenna will mount on or near the trunk, and the wiring generally drops down inside of the trunk.
Tighten the nut to secure the antenna. Remove the two screws above the gauge cluster on the dash of the car. Remove the two screws behind the ashtray.
Start on one end of the front dash and slowly pull it away until you feel the clips on the outer edges separating. Remove the wiring harnesses holding the dash by pressing in on their release tab.
Remove the four screws securing the head unit. Remove the head unit.
Route the antenna wire behind the dash to the back of the head unit and plug it in. Depending on the head unit model, you may need an adapter.
Reattach the head unit and dash. Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
