YACT: replacing antenna

[CheesePoofs]

So my antenna decided to snap off a few days ago while I was driving somewhere, and now I need to get a new one. The problem is I'm having trouble finding what antenna to get ... a few local stores said to get a universal one but I've also seen specific antennas for a 1990 prizm listed online. Is there some way I can find out definitively what antenna I'm supposed to get?

I also know very little about cars, although I consider myself pretty good with working on stuff with my hands, so if you have any suggestions for replacing this thing, I'd appreciate them.

 

[keeleysam]

Go order something from Crutchfield.

 

[BoomerD]

Take the old one (or what's left of it) in, and match it up. If it's just a standard fender mount, it should be easy. I had a Geo Spectrum once upon a time, (real POS) and it had an antenna that went up the front windshield post. Dealer item only for that back then. You should be able to replace yours at Kragen(shucks Checker) AutoZone, Napa or the dealer...Crutchfield might be a good on-line source as well. Best bet, is to call the dealer, get their price and part#, than use that in your search...

 

[KoolAidKid]

Old school way to replace the antenna: pull the old antenna jack out of the back of your stereo, tie a long string to it. Disconnect your old antenna from the body of the car and pull the cable through the hole in the car's body. Tie the end of the string to the end of the new antenna cable, pull on the string from the other end.

 

[CheesePoofs]

This antenna is one that mounts on the windshield post. Crutchfield looks a bit expensive, so I think I'll just pull out the antenna tomorrow and take it down to some auto parts store to try and find a match.

And thanks for the string suggestion ... I'll definitely use that.

 

[AAjax]

They are (or at least were, when I needed one for my Prizm) all over ebay. Should be aboout 20$ shipped as I remember.

 

[Pepsi90919]

this is totally a junkyard part

 

[Spikesoldier]

isnt the prism a rebadged corolla? maybe if they are the same you can get a replacement for a corolla perhaps online or in a junkyard.

i would do a little research first. or you can do what i did when i thought my radio reception was horrible, pick up satelite radio, only to have during the installation discover that the antenna connecting to the back of the radio is loose