How much does it cost to replace an antenna on a truck?

Most truck antenna replacements cost roughly $60 to $500 in total, depending on the antenna type and whether you DIY or hire a shop. Basic CB or FM antennas are on the lower end, while satellite or cellular systems with professional installation can push costs higher. This article outlines typical price ranges, what influences the price, and practical tips for getting a fair deal.

Truck antennas support a range of functions—from communications and navigation to data connectivity. Replacing one may involve a simple whip swap or a full roof-mount system with new coax and mounting hardware. Prices vary by signal type, mounting method, labor rates, and whether weatherproofing or roof work is required. Read on for a practical guide to what you can expect when replacing a truck antenna for a single vehicle or a fleet.

What you're replacing and why costs vary

Antennas come in several flavors, each serving a different purpose. The cost to replace depends on the function (communication, radio reception, GPS/telematics, or data connectivity), the mounting style (roof, mirror, or under-tray), and whether installation is DIY or performed by a shop. Below are the common types and their typical price ranges.

Common antenna types on trucks

The following categories cover the most common antenna types you'll encounter on trucks and their typical price ranges.

• CB radio antennas: basic fiberglass whips are inexpensive, while high-gain stainless options cost more. Parts typically range from $20 to $100; installation can be $50 to $150, depending on mounting and routing.


• FM/AM vehicle radio antennas: standard mast or magnetic-mount antennas are usually affordable. Parts often start around $15 and can rise to $60 or more, with installation generally $50 to $120.


• GPS and telematics antennas: these tend to be pricier due to specialized connectors and mounting needs. Parts generally run $60 to $200, and professional installation can be $100 to $250.


• Satellite radio antennas (e.g., SiriusXM): external satellite antennas are more costly, with parts typically $100 to $300 and installation $100 to $250.


• Cellular or data/antenna systems: for fleet tracking or Wi‑Fi boosting, parts range from $50 to $250, while installation can be $50 to $250 depending on complexity.

Prices above illustrate ballpark ranges and can vary by brand, mounting method, and regional labor rates. Some fleets combine multiple antennas, which can affect both parts and labor costs.

Typical costs by antenna type

Below is a practical guide to what you might pay for common truck antenna replacements, including both parts and typical installation charges.

• CB radio antenna: total commonly $70 to $250, depending on the antenna quality and mounting complexity.


• FM/AM radio antenna: total commonly $65 to $170, depending on the type and installation method.


• GPS/telematics antenna: total commonly $160 to $450, driven by the need for robust mounting and reliable connectivity.


• Satellite radio antenna: total commonly $200 to $550, influenced by the system’s outdoor antenna and installation work.


• Cellular/data antenna: total commonly $150 to $600, particularly if a booster or multiple antennas are involved.

These figures are rough guides and can vary with specific models, roof configurations, and technician rates. Always obtain a written quote that itemizes parts and labor.

What drives the total cost

Several factors determine the final bill when replacing a truck antenna. Understanding them can help you plan and negotiate effectively.

• Labor rates: Regional variations and whether the work is performed by a dealership, a commercial truck shop, or an independent installer.


• Mounting complexity: Roof penetrations, weatherproofing, and potential interior routing can add time and materials.


• Antenna quality and type: Higher-quality, specialty, or marine-grade antennas cost more upfront but may offer better performance or longevity.


• Coax and connectors: Length, shielding, and reliability of connectors influence both cost and signal integrity.


• Weatherproofing and seals: Proper sealing around mounts prevents leaks and corrosion, adding to labor and materials.


• Removal of old hardware: If the old antenna or mount needs to be removed and patched, expect additional labor.


• Vehicle type and multi-antenna setups: Fleet vehicles or trucks with several antennas may incur higher overall costs due to multiple components and installations.

In practice, labor can account for a substantial portion of the total if the job involves roof work, sealants, or routing cables through the cab. Getting multiple quotes can help you gauge whether you’re paying a fair price for materials and expertise.

Installation options: DIY vs professional

Choosing between do-it-yourself installation and professional service significantly affects both cost and risk. DIY work can save money but requires comfort with wiring, weatherproofing, and potential warranty implications. Professional installation offers warranty-backed workmanship and verified sealing, at a higher but often justified price.

DIY considerations

Pros: lower upfront cost, learning experience, flexibility in timing. Cons: potential for leaks, improper grounding, signal issues, or damaged fixtures if done incorrectly.

Professional installation considerations

Pros: certified techniques, proper sealing, tested signal quality, and commonly included warranties. Cons: higher upfront price and scheduling around shop hours. If you’re replacing multiple antennas, a fleet program discount from a commercial shop may apply.

Summary

Replacing a truck antenna is highly variable in cost, ranging from roughly $60 to $500 or more, depending on the type of antenna, the mounting method, and whether installation is DIY or done by a professional. Basic communication antennas tend to be affordable, while satellite, cellular, and multi-antenna setups drive up the price. To manage costs, compare quotes, confirm what’s included (parts, labor, sealing, and warranty), and consider whether a single versatile mast or multiple dedicated antennas best fits your needs. Always factor in potential follow-up maintenance and weatherproofing when budgeting for a replacement.

How can you tell if your car antenna is bad?

If your car radio starting to sound static-y, you might be a candidate for a new antenna. Usually if you need a new antenna, the first thing that's gonna happen is your AM stations are going to start to go bad. AM is the weakest link and that's the first thing that's gonna go.

How much does it cost to replace a car antenna?

Replacing a car antenna can cost anywhere from $35 to $350 or more, depending on the part, labor, and whether it's a simple mast replacement or a more complex, integrated system. A basic mast replacement might cost around $10 to $200 for the part alone, plus an estimated $50 to $100 for labor, while a high-tech GPS antenna could cost over $100 just for the part, with a higher labor cost to match. 
Cost breakdown
Part cost

• Basic Mast: A simple replacement antenna mast can range from approximately $10 to $200, with many standard options available for under $50. 
• Upgraded/Specialty Antennas:
  • Amplified or "hide-away" antennas can range from $30 to $40. 
  • GPS or other integrated systems can cost over $100 for the part alone. 
• Vehicle-Specific Parts: Some parts, especially those for older or specific models, may cost more. 

Labor cost

• Simple Replacement: The labor for a basic antenna mast replacement is often estimated at $50 to $100, depending on your location. 
• Complex Replacement: If the antenna is part of a more complex system, such as one integrated into the roof or requiring interior dismantling, labor can be significantly higher. Some sources suggest labor can add several hundred dollars or more to the total cost for complex jobs. 

What affects the cost

• Antenna Type: A simple whip antenna is cheaper than a power or GPS-integrated system.
• Labor Complexity: The difficulty of the installation is a major factor. Replacing a mast might be a simple job, while replacing a shark-fin or roof-mounted antenna could require removing interior trim or even the headliner. 
• Part vs. Labor: For some high-tech antennas, the part itself can be expensive. For others, the labor to properly install a less expensive part is the bulk of the cost. 

How to get an accurate estimate

• Identify the antenna type: Determine if you need a simple mast replacement or a more complex part. 
• Get quotes: Contact a few local auto shops or car audio specialists to get quotes for both the parts and the labor. 
• Check online resources: You can find replacement parts from sites like CarParts.com, Advance Auto Parts, and AutoZone.com, and compare prices. 

Can you replace a car antenna yourself?

Replacing an antenna on your car isn't difficult. You could do it. The wires often are plugged into the bottom of the antenna. Just remove the old one, connect up the new one, and tighten it down.

How long does it take to replace a car antenna?

A: The rubber antenna is simple to replace. It simply unscrews from the antenna base. It takes only a few minutes to take off the old one and install the new one. You should be able to buy a replacement for less than $20.