Satellite radio offers several advantages over traditional AM/FM radio. It has many more channels than traditional radio, and you can hear it in any location with a clear view of the sky. Two competing services, XM and Sirius, offer Satellite radio; the installation process remains nearly identical for both. You can add satellite radio to nearly any car through either an in-dash or portable radio receiver. An in-dash installation requires professional assistance or knowledge, while you can perform the mobile installation at home.
Purchase the radio receiver for either XM or Sirius satellite radio. (See the link in the Resources section for a comparison guide.) Look for receivers online and at car audio stores.
Attach the magnetic receiver to the back of the roof, leaving at least 3 inches of bare metal in all directions. Direct the antenna cable toward the trunk or rear door.
Open the trunk or rear door. Lift the rubber weather seal that lines the door frame using a putty knife, and pass the end of the cable under it. Route the cable under the interior weather stripping toward the cabin.
Mount the receiver to the windshield using the attached suction cup. Plug the power source into an available 12-volt outlet. Plug both the power and antenna cable into the receiver.
Tune the receiver to channel 184 for Sirius radio. Note the ESN number from the receiver, located below the bar code. Call 888-539-7474, and provide all requested information. Wait for the receiver to confirm subscription.
Tune the receiver to channel 0 for XM radio, and note the eight-digit ID number. Navigate your browser to the XM Radio Set Up Your Account website (see link in Resources section), and fill in all required information. Wait for the receiver to confirm your subscription after completing the form.
