I know it sounds nuts, but I've noticed that I have some static on distant AM stations that GOES AWAY when I apply the brakes and returns when the pedal is released.

This is weird. Is the radio on the same circuit as the brakes lights, or some such?

I should note that after two replacements of the power antenna, I went with the manual one (and got much better reception.)

You are on the same electrical of the same car is the best I can say.

What'* AM? is that the band I occaisionally find by mistake?

Bob...

I've actually noticed that too in my 99. I'm a talk radio junkie and do a lot of traveling so I enjoy listening to AM. If the topic is good and coming in from a distant station, I actually prefer to be stuck in a trafic jam because I can hear the whole discussion (foot on brake = better reception).

It is odd to say the least! I've never taken the time to check into why it does it, I just deal.