2018 F3L audio question

[lugnut1009]

Ok, I have searched and read on this subject but cannot find a clear answer. On my wife's 2018 F3L the audio is terrible! And I'm not talking about just the radio reception either but all around. I've heard earlier models that sound fine, and I know the '18 is the newer style with amp and radio modules built into the display. Is there anybody with similar experiences? Are there settings that maybe we overlooked? A dealer visit is out of the question as there aren't any near me. We bought it new and although she doesn't listen to the on boards system much, if at all, it aggravates me that it's on the bike and doesn't function well enough to even use. Thanks in advance.

[bikerchris1270]

Ok, I have searched and read on this subject but cannot find a clear answer. On my wife's 2018 F3L the audio is terrible! And I'm not talking about just the radio reception either but all around. I've heard earlier models that sound fine, and I know the '18 is the newer style with amp and radio modules built into the display. Is there anybody with similar experiences? Are there settings that maybe we overlooked? A dealer visit is out of the question as there aren't any near me. We bought it new and although she doesn't listen to the on boards system much, if at all, it aggravates me that it's on the bike and doesn't function well enough to even use. Thanks in advance.

I’m thinking there is no difference in sound quality when usingAUX input? It’s the same whatever is being played? Was this thing like this new?
Trace wiring to check grounds and connections for good contact. Other than that......you’ve got a head scratcher to figure out. Looking in the shop manual, it’s very basic information....check wiring continuity........swap out with known good component.

[lugnut1009]

When plugged into the AUX port it’s a little better but still not like others. For instance, I have a friends at my house I’m doing some maintenance on. It is a 2014 RT and it sounds 10x’s better than this ‘18 F3L and the RT is the bottom of the line model too.

[JP58]

First thing. Make sure your dash has the latest update. Version 20.8 That will be in settings under the (about) setting. If it has that than play with bass, treble, balance, and fader. If it has 13.2 or less the sound will suck. And brp connect and bluetooth wont work properly.

[lugnut1009]

Thanks, we've called our so called local "dealership" about software updates and they claim there aren't any. I'm to the point now that I'm looking into purchasing BUDS myself so there won't be a question. The bike has been serviced by myself since purchased new, and although we've called and asked, it has never been back to a dealer for any upgrades or revisions of software. We bought it in late September of 2018 and now have over 18k miles on it. AND that's with my wife not being able to ride for shoulder surgery and recovery then again for back surgery and recovery.

[JP58]

Then you don't have the latest update. 20.8 came out in spring of 2019. Ofcourse the dealer is going to say there are no new updates since that one is almost 2 years ago.

[Flamewinger]

Does kinda sound like the dash firmware is not the latest.

There are multiple music sources. FM radio, phone and Aux. There is a setting that when you go faster the sound gets louder.

The FM should be loud by itself. The phone has to have the phone volume up all the way if you're getting music from it. Same with anything plugged into the Aux. Also the volume control on the headset could be down.