Jaguar XJS and XJ6 Antenna Mast and Grommet Repairs

  • Gary
  • XJ6 / XJS

Fixing the Antenna Mast and Grommet on 1986+ XJS and 1988+ XJ6 Jaguars

If your antenna isn’t extending or retracting properly on a 1986 or later Jaguar XJS or a 1988 or later XJ6, don’t worry – replacing the antenna mast and drive cable assembly is a simple and affordable DIY repair.

What Goes Wrong

These models use a plastic drive cable with teeth that mesh with the antenna motor. Over time, the cable or mast can wear out, become sticky, or break off completely. If that happens, the antenna won’t move properly. The good news is, unlike earlier models that required replacing the entire antenna unit, these later models let you swap out just the mast and drive cable.

What You’ll Need

  • Replacement Antenna Mast and Drive Cable Assembly
  • New Rubber Grommet (essential for keeping water out of the trunk)

The rubber grommet seals the antenna mast at the fender. These grommets dry out and crack over time, letting water leak into the trunk area, so it’s best to replace them whenever you’re servicing the antenna.

DIY Steps:

  1. Turn on the radio to raise the antenna (if possible). If it’s broken, manually pull it up.
  2. Unbolt the antenna nut at the base and gently remove the old mast.
  3. Pull out the old drive cable—you might need to power on the motor briefly to eject it.
  4. Feed the new cable into the motor assembly with the teeth facing the motor gear.
  5. Turn off the ignition or radio, and the motor should pull the cable in and retract the new mast.
  6. Install the new grommet to ensure a weatherproof seal.
  7. Tighten everything up, test the antenna, and you’re good to go.

Part Numbers to Know

  • DBC2200: Fits 1988–1993 XJ6 and 1986–1993 XJS models up to VIN 190527
  • LNA4134AA: Fits 1994–1997 models, 1994–1996 XJS, and all XJ8 and XK8 models

You can find these parts in our Jaguar Parts Store Catalog. This is a great weekend project that restores function and keeps your car dry—no more trunk leaks or radio static!