2004 Toyota Matrix Owners Manual - Page 139

'04 MATRIX_U (L/O 0307) Here are some common reception problems that probably do not indicate a problem with your radio: FM Fading and drifting stations-Generally, the effective range of FM is about 40 km (25 miles). Once outside this range, you may notice fading and drifting, which increase with the distance from the radio transmitter. They are often accompanied by distortion. Multi −path-FM signals are reflective, making it possible for two signals to reach your antenna at the same time. If this happens, the signals will cancel each other out, causing a momentary flutter or loss of reception. Static and fluttering-These occur when signals are blocked by buildings, trees, or other large objects. Increasing the bass level may reduce static and fluttering. Station swapping-If the FM signal you are listening to is interrupted or weakened, and there is another strong station nearby on the FM band, your radio may tune in the second station until the original signal can be picked up again. AM Fading-AM broadcasts are reflected by the upper atmosphere-especially at night. These reflected signals can interfere with those received directly from the radio station, causing the radio station to sound alternately strong and weak. Station interference-When a reflected signal and a signal received directly from a radio station are very nearly the same frequency, they can interfere with each other, making it difficult to hear the broadcast. Static-AM is easily affected by external sources of electrical noise, such as high tension power lines, lightening, or electrical motors. This results in static. CARING FOR YOUR CASSETTE PLAYER AND TAPES For the best performance for your cassette player and tapes: Clean the tape head and other parts regularly. Use high−quality cassettes. D Low−quality cassette tapes can cause many problems, including poor sound, inconsistent playing speed, and constant auto−reversing. They can also get stuck or tangled in the cassette player. D Do not use a cassette if it has been damaged or tangled or if its label is peeling off. D Do not leave a cassette in the player if you are not listening to it, especially if it is hot outside. D Store cassettes in their cases and out of direct sunlight. D Avoid using cassettes with a total playing time longer than 100 minutes (50 minutes per side). The tape used in these cassettes is thin and could get stuck or tangled in the cassette player. D A dirty tape head or tape path can decrease sound quality and tangle your cassette tapes. The easiest way to clean them is by using a cleaning tape. (A wet type is recommended.) 139 2004 MATRIX from Oct. '03 Prod. (OM12861U)