Rear defrost makes radio static

[Stuguy16]

I have a 2000 tj with a hard top on it, when I turn on the rear defroster the radio goes fuzzy. Anyone else have the same problem? If so how do I fix it?

 

[Windrac]

Fun question!

Could be a few things (check these):
- Loose ground on your radio
- Loose ground on your radio antenna
- Loose connections on the glass heater
- Loose ground on your alternator
- Failing alternator (have your local parts store test it. it's usually free to do this)

Does the interference change with engine RPM or stay mostly constant?

I never use the radio in my TJ but I also have a hard top with heated glass. Tomorrow AM I'll see if mine does it too. Might just be a sloppy design.

I'm a radio frequency engineer full-time, and you wouldn't believe the number of automotive products (mostly aftermarket) that generate horrible RF noise. I've spent a lot of time quieting things down.

#1 cause of RF interference in auto receivers is a bad ground though!

 

[Jerry Bransford]

My bet is a bad/dirty/loose ground or +12v connection to the rear glass heater element.