How to Hard Wire My Sirius Radio to My Car Battery

A Sirius Satellite radio using FM modulation can be added to any car. These dash mounted devices receive the satellite signal through an antenna and broadcast it over a low power FM signal. This is picked up by your car's radio on an unused FM frequency. The unit is typically powered by the vehicle's electrical system through an accessory outlet. This can create a mess of wires running across your dashboard. Wiring the radio directly into the vehicle's power supply is one way of reducing this clutter.

Things You'll Need

  • 12-volt female auto accessory socket
  • Butt connectors
  • Pliers
  • Fuse tap
  • 10-amp fuse
  • Cable ties
  • Locate the vehicle's interior fuse panel. The owner's manual can provide the exact location if it is difficult to find.

  • Mount the Sirius Radio in the desired location on the dash. Run the power wires inside the window/dashboard gap towards the fuse panel.

  • Insert the plug from the Sirius Radio into the 12-volt female auto accessory outlet.

  • Connect the black wire on the outlet to a good ground close to the fuse panel. The vehicle uses its body and frame as its ground connection. A bolt or screw which is mounted to the body will work as a ground. Back the screw off a slightly and slip the bare end of the wire under it and tighten it down.

  • Connect the red wire form the 12-volt accessory outlet to the fuse tap using a butt connector. This type of connector works by placing the one bare wire into each end and compressing with pliers. Gently tug on the connection to assure a tight fit.

  • Insert the fuse tap into an empty fuse slot and install the 10 amp fuse into the tap.

  • Fasten any loose wires with cable ties to give a clean looking install.