The antenna for your Nissan Xterra's radio may be in good condition, but there is always the possibility of replacing it with a higher-quality aftermarket option. Whether you're upgrading the antenna or replacing a defective one, the replacement process is a relatively simple operation. The antenna base on the Xterra is usually mounted to the hood with the wire running to the radio in the dash. This process can vary depending on the exact year of the truck.
Unscrew and disconnect the antenna mast from the base using a small, open-ended wrench.
Unscrew and remove the windshield wiper nearest the antenna base and remove the cowl grille on that side.
Unbolt and remove the splash shield from the truck using your wrench. Disconnect the antenna cable from the fender.
Pry off the dash's center bezel, remove the radio's mounting screws with a screwdriver and pull the radio out of the dash. Disconnect the antenna lead in the back.
Remove the mounting screws for the antenna base with your screwdriver and remove the base. Pull the antenna cable out through the body.
Connect the new base to the truck body and apply the mounting screws. Connect the wire to the fender.
Tie a pull string to the replacement radio antenna and pull it through the body to the radio and connect it to the radio. Reinstall the radio with its screws and trim bezel.
Screw the antenna mast to the base with the wrench.
Reconnect the cowl grille, windshield wiper arm and fender splash shield.
