Symptoms
- Map shows the car in the wrong location or not at all
- Message like 'acquiring GPS signal' stays on screen
- Problem worse in parking garages, tunnels, or dense areas
- Navigation worked fine recently and stopped suddenly
Likely causes
- CommonWeak signal in covered or urban areasParking structures, tunnels, and tall buildings can block satellite signals temporarily.
- PossibleGPS antenna obstructionItems placed on the dash, window tint, or a roof rack accessory can interfere with the antenna.
- PossibleSystem needs a restartLike any GPS device, occasional software hiccups can be cleared with a restart.
- Less commonFailed or damaged GPS antennaPhysical damage to the antenna, often located on the roof or dash, can permanently block signal.
What to do
- Drive to an open area away from tall buildings, parking structures, or tunnels and wait a few minutes.
- Remove any large objects from the dashboard near the windshield that could block the antenna.
- Restart the infotainment system by turning the car off and back on.
- Check if aftermarket window tint was recently applied, especially metallic tint, which can block GPS signal.
- Compare against your phone's GPS in the same location to see if it's a car-specific issue or a general dead zone.
- If the system never finds a signal even in open areas after restarting, suspect a hardware or antenna issue.
Tools and parts
GPS antennaSearch: “GPS antenna replacement for your car make, model, and year”
When to call a pro
If GPS never locks on even in open areas, a dealer can test the antenna and its connection to the navigation module.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.