What does the AM button in a car mean?

[MacKathryn]

Car radio modes: There are two modes for car radios, one is AM and the other is FM. Generally, drivers use the FM button more often when listening to the radio, as FM is used to operate the radio's frequency modulation, while AM is used to adjust the radio's wavelength band. AM and FM: AM and FM belong to two different broadcast reception systems with distinct working principles. They operate independently and do not interfere with each other. Typically, FM provides better sound quality without intermittent broadcast signals, whereas using the AM band usually results in lower sound quality when receiving signals.

[DiJade]

Yesterday, I just saw a friend asking about this AM button, and I've encountered a similar situation before. In a car's center console, the AM button is essentially the switch for controlling the AM (Amplitude Modulation) radio band. Pressing it allows you to switch to AM channels to listen to broadcasts. AM signals have a longer transmission range but slightly inferior sound quality, making them particularly suitable for listening to traffic news or talk shows while driving. Some older car models have separate AM/FM buttons on the radio panel, but many newer vehicles integrate this function into the multimedia screen. Remember, AM signals tend to be much more stable than FM in tunnels or remote areas. In case of severe weather when GPS fails, tuning into AM radio can serve as an emergency source of information. If your car has an automatic station search function, holding down the AM button usually locks onto the local station with the strongest signal automatically.

[DelAddyson]

Having driven for twenty years, the AM button is the one I use most frequently. This button selects the AM band on the radio and is paired with the FM button. Pressing the AM button switches to medium-wave broadcast frequencies, primarily receiving practical information like local news and traffic updates. I often use it to listen to cross-province radio stations during long drives, especially in areas with no mobile signal. Nowadays, some electric vehicles have replaced the radio with touchscreen controls, but traditional button models still retain the physical AM button. It's important to distinguish this button from the A/M button for air conditioning, which toggles between automatic and manual modes. If the AM button doesn't respond, it's likely due to a loose antenna connection or the need to reboot the infotainment system.

[PaigeLee]

The AM button in the car controls the AM radio. Press it to listen to AM band stations. Old-school car enthusiasts know this feature is particularly practical—it's super convenient for checking traffic updates while driving. Remember to look for the AM indicator when selecting a station frequency. In the city, the signal is stronger but the audio tends to be staticky, while on highways, it's actually clearer. Nowadays, some new cars have replaced it with multimedia touchscreens, burying the AM function in the second layer of menus, making it less direct than physical buttons.