GPS malfunction in the NTG1 system of a 2006 CLS 219 vehicle.

[DSM10000]

Greetings, Could someone provide guidance on the potential cause of the GPS problem with my NTG1 satellite navigation system in a 2006 CLS?

I have owned the car for approximately three weeks, and during this time, the GPS system has failed to detect any satellites. After conducting research on the issue, I decided to install an aftermarket Fakra GPS antenna purchased from eBay. I placed the antenna at the back of the navigation unit in the trunk and positioned it on top of the rear parcel shelf, visible through the rear window. Many individuals have reported success with this method. However, despite my efforts, the unit still fails to detect any satellite signals. Consequently, it continues to inaccurately indicate that I am located at sea near Madrid, when in reality, I am in the northwestern region of England. Additionally, the dashboard clock is also set incorrectly and can only be adjusted in 30-minute intervals.

Do you have any recommendations?

[bvlenci]

I am unable to provide an assessment on the effectiveness of the site where you have positioned the new GPS receiver, but...
In my last W211 E55, I had a similar problem and resolved it by securing the replacement receiver purchased from eBay using cable ties. I placed it behind the rear parcel shelf inside the trunk.
Subsequently, I departed at a leisurely pace and the map indicated my precise whereabouts within a distance of 100 yards.
These are the only two pictures I have. Have you correctly inserted the new blue fakra plug into the appropriate socket at the rear of the satellite navigation unit?

[DSM10000]

Thank you for your response. I have also attempted the same solution as you, but unfortunately, it did not provide any positive results. I have replaced the old antenna with a new Fakra antenna and positioned it on the rear parcel shelf to ensure an unobstructed view of the sky.

[DSM10000]

[AMG33D]

The presence of a dash after the satellite indicator indicates that the navigation device is unable to detect the antenna. If the connection was stable but there were no satellites within range (such as in an underground parking lot), the display should indicate a value of zero.

[DSM10000]

In addition, I must mention that I temporarily positioned the antenna on the car's roof, but still did not get any GPS signal. I have thoroughly inspected the Fakra connection many times to ensure it is properly inserted and the terminal is free of dirt or debris.

[keithmerc220]

Attempt to access the Engineering Menu of the NTG1 system. There should be a menu option available to determine if the GPS antenna connection is experiencing an open or short circuit state.
Assuming that the antenna is an active one, which is often the case since it is a ceramic patch with RF amplification circuitry included, and that the antenna can be powered by either 3.3 or 5 volts. Some antennas are capable of accepting both voltages. Some devices that are designed to operate at a voltage of 5V will not function properly if they are supplied with a DC voltage of 3.3V via the centre conductor. If the situation is reversed, I am unable to determine if supplying 5 volts to a 3.3-volt antenna would result in the destruction of the antenna. However, it is expected that the Comand GPS connection has short circuit protection.

If you disconnect the antenna and possess a voltmeter, attempt to measure the voltage between the central pin of the Fakra connector and the encompassing outer shield.
Next, analyse the reading and compare it to the specifications provided for the antenna you have.

[Screwdriver_1]

Precisely like Diesel Benz says. It seems that the navigation drive is unable to detect the antenna. This is a prevalent problem that often occurs with antennas that are not original equipment. Additionally, the process of acquiring satellites might take up to fifteen minutes. Perform a full power cycle on the navigation drive. That is, disconnect the power source, wait for 30 seconds, and then reconnect it.

[DSM10000]

Thank you for the guidance. Today, I have been exploring the Engineering mode, but I have not come across any settings that specifically refer to GPS short or open circuit.

I have measured the voltage at the fakra connector located at the rear of the device and obtained a consistent reading of 4.94V. Considering that my antenna is designed to operate within a voltage range of 3V-5V, it seems to be well within the acceptable limits. Consequently, it is more likely that the issue lies with a faulty or low-quality antenna. It was the most affordable option on Amazon, and I believed it would enough to eliminate other possible malfunctions before investing in a pricier one.

Thank you once again for any guidance and assistance provided.

[DSM10000]

Apologies for not noticing your response earlier as I was occupied with replying to the previous post. However, I agree with your assessment that the issue seems to be caused by a low-cost, subpar antenna. I have been using this antenna for at least a week now, and during this period, it has failed to detect any satellites, displaying only "ALT - SAT-". I will attempt to replace it with a higher quality antenna and provide an update. Thank you!

[Screwdriver_1]

There is a significant amount of subpar content being given on many websites. Choose a product of high quality.

Attempt positioning it on the outside of the car's rear bootlid. Merely for the purpose of conducting an experiment.

RF can be blocked only if the rear window has the exact same very small pitch rear window demist heating wires as in my CL500 (C215).
My automobile was the subject of such situation. The trunk lid was composed of a plastic substance supported by a metal frame. Mercedes positioned the GPS antenna in the automobile just under the lid. RF easily infiltrated it.

[DSM10000]

Update: I installed a slightly higher quality GPS antenna today. I disconnected the power cable to the navigation unit in the trunk for 30 seconds. When I turned it back on, I immediately had a signal from 6 satellites. I took a slow drive around the block and the clock automatically updated itself. The map also centred on my current location. Excellent outcome!

Thank to everyone for any assistance provided.