Hi all,

I drive an imported Japanese spec SC430 here in the UK. The radio was fitted with an expander to pick up UK stations when I first got the car (almost 3 years ago).

For the first 2.5 years, all was fine. FM reception was not perfect, but definitely acceptable, while AM reception was excellent.

Over the last 6 months, however, there has been a gradual deterioration. FM is now un-listenable - so full of crackle and pop. Only one BBC station - a particularly high-powered one - can actually be enjoyed 'properly'. Some AM stations are OK but most are swamped in background hiss.

I have had the system inspected 3 times now by different people (Lexus dealers and independent audio specialists).

The expander and the aerial have both been replaced, and the problem is no different.

The friendly Lexus dealer (who didn't charge me for the new aerial) is completely baffled. His only suggestion now is to replace the entire head unit, which would cost me £975 (about $1700 PLUS LABOUR).

And even then, he says he is unable to guarantee that this will fix the problem.

Does anyone here have any ideas?

How can radio reception just gradually deteriorate? And why wouldn't a new aerial and expander fix the problem? Is there anything else I can try?

One more piece of info:- reception is OK when the car is stationary with the engine off.

Any ideas?!?!?

All the best,

Martin