I got a 2005 Scion tC back in May and promptly installed the empeg the following weekend. All is well except... I'm getting VERY poor AM reception with little to no signal strength based on the meter (yes I'm just noticing this, I only listen to the radio for traffic/news and obviously not very often.) FM stations come in just fine with plenty of signal.

Also, AM stations tuned in just fine using the stock head. I double-checked all the connections and everything seems to be fine. Do Toyota's/Scion's use a signal amplifier or is that ruled out by that fact that FM stations are good?

I'm using an original Tuner that has been with my MK2a since the beginning. The Tuner has worked perfectly (AM and FM) in my last 3 vehicles. Could it be the shorter antenna that scion uses?

Thanks

Is part of your antenna on a window with tint? I remember hearing that depending on the type of tint used it can kill AM reception. I don't use a tuner and would probably never notice.

No, the antenna is actually mounted to/protrudes from the body (rear passenger quarter-panel.)

If it's a short antenna, is it amplified (ie. active, needing a supply)?

Really not sure . I'll investigate at the wiring harness. If that's the case where would I supply the power from? The power-antenna wire maybe?

Confirmed!

The antenna needs a power source. I will attempt to use the power-antenna lead from the tuner tonight.

Glad to be of service!