My 2003 grand marquis radio keeps scanning & scannning but no reception, noise enough, cd is playing fine

I DON'T KNOW. AUTO WRECKER REPLACEMENT MAY BE LOWEST COST.

So, maybe it's time to get away from the used junk and buy a new aftermarket radio.

I would say the most common problem is a bad antenna.

you can look for a radio shop to repair the cd player it would be cheaper to install a aftermarket radio they do have kits if you have steering wheel controls

This is a common problem with this radio. I purchased a used 2003 Grand Marquis and the radio stopped working after a few days. I checked all the usual problems such as faulty antenna and connections. I then looked on line and many others have the same problem with this radio. The only advice is to purchase a used radio from salvage yard the same as the one you have now or you can also go with a good aftermarket radio for around the same price as you are going to pay for a used radio. A used radio would require just removing the radio which is a snap, and then plugging in the replacement radio using the same connections. An after market radio will require adapters and splicing wires. I chose putting in an aftermarket JVC radio and I really enjoy the sound and being able to play cd/mp3's and my ipod through the radio.

Buy yourself an aftermarket antenna and install it. Do not get a power retractor, nor one with a ball on the bottom, just one of those simple 31 inch rod units.

You will most likely have to pull a fender liner to mount it and fish the cable around to get it to the back of the radio. Try and avoid an extension cable. A local car stereo store could do this cheap in about an hour. Retracting antennas, in the windshield antennas just do not work.

make sure the antenna is plugged all the way into the back of the stereo

Half volume is good enough. (and a cheap fix)

check the back of the radio, make sure than the antenna, connector is plug into the radio, if it is, then replace the radio.

the antenna on the back of the unit is disconnected