There are two primary ways to connect your SIRIUS satellite radio in your vehicle:
Wireless Connection
Direct Connection
Following these procedures will help you obtain the best performance out of your SIRIUS radio
Your SIRIUS radio contains an FM transmitter. The FM transmitter sends the audio from your SIRIUS radio to your car radio. To use the wireless connection:
STEP 1: MATCH THE FM CHANNEL OF YOUR SIRIUS RADIO WITH YOUR CAR'S FM RADIO
- Turn off your SIRIUS radio and tune through the FM frequencies on your car radio to locate an FM frequency that is not broadcasting in your area. (Tip: If you use an FM frequency that is being used by a local broadcaster, it will interfere with the performance of your SIRIUS radio.)
- Once you have located an FM frequency that is not broadcasting in your area, save it as a preset on your car radio. This will become your SIRIUS preset.
- Turn on your SIRIUS radio. In the SETTINGS or MENU on your SIRIUS radio locate the "FM Frequency" adjustments. Set the frequency number on your SIRIUS radio to match the SIRIUS preset on your car radio. Refer to your user guide for detailed instructions on how to do this.
NOTE: The FM transmitter in your SIRIUS radio is automatically set to FM frequency 88.1. This may not be the best frequency for your area.
To find the best FM frequency with the lowest interference in your home or travel cities, you can also go to SIRIUS FM Channel Finder and search for a suggested FM frequency based on zip code.
STEP 2: CHOOSE BETWEEN THE INTERNAL OR FM EXTENDER ANTENNA FOR YOUR SIRIUS RADIO
OPTION 1 - INTERNAL ANTENNA: Use the internal antenna ONLY if you drive primarily in areas with few commercial FM stations.
OPTION 2 - FM EXTENDER ANTENNA (FEA): Add the FEA included with your SIRIUS radio or vehicle kit. Use this solution if you drive in suburban or metropolitan areas with many commercial FM stations.
NOTE: For a quick step-by-step tutorial on how to install the FEA in your vehicle, click here to view the FEA Quick Start Guide. For a more in-depth overview of the product and installation procedure, click here to view the FEA Installation Guide.
Direct Connections provide better audio performance than a wireless connection and removes the possibility of interference from local FM broadcasters. Just choose between the Good, Better, Best options depending on your preference and the make/model of your vehicle audio system:
GOOD - CASSETTE ADAPTER
For good audio performance and easy installation
- Purchase a Cassette Adapter at your local electronics retailer
- Plug the adapter into the "AUDIO OUT" or "LINE OUT" jack on your SIRIUS radio and insert the adapter into the car radio's cassette slot.
- Turn the FM transmitter of your SIRIUS radio OFF
NOTE: The SIRIUS Cassette Adapter is available at your local SIRIUS retailer or at http://shop.sirius.com.
NOTE: Refer to the adapter manufacturer’s guidelines for correct use.
BETTER - FM DIRECT ADAPTER
For better audio performance and greatly reduced FM interference.
Listen to your SIRIUS radio through the FM radio of your car.
All car radios can use this solution*
- Install the FM Direct Adapter. Click here for the installation manual of the FM Direct Adapter. Typically requires professional installation
- Match the FM channels of your SIRIUS radio and your car's FM radio (same procedure described
above in the Wireless Connection section)
Professional installation may be required.
NOTE: The SIRIUS FM Direct Adapter is available at your local SIRIUS retailer or at http://shop.sirius.com.
NOTE: *Certain car radio models will require an additional adapter to properly connect the FM Direct Adapter to the car's AM/FM radio. Check with your SIRIUS retailer or professional installer for details.
BEST - DIRECT WIRED CONNECTION VIA "AUX IN" OR "LINE IN" INPUT
For best audio performance and easiest installation.
For those car radio models that offer an "AUX IN" or "LINE IN" input
- Purchase an audio cable that matches the connection type of your car radio and your SIRIUS radio at your local electronics retailer (your SIRIUS radio requires a 1/8" stereo male connector)
- Plug one end of the cable into the "AUDIO OUT" or "LINE OUT" jack on your SIRIUS radio. Plug the other end into your "AUX IN" or "LINE IN" jack on your car radio
- Turn the FM transmitter of your SIRIUS radio OFF
NOTE: Refer to your car radio manufacturer's guidelines for correct installation
NOTE: The location of the "AUX IN" or "LINE IN" jack in the car radio varies from car to car. Some common locations are:
- on the face plate of the car radio
- anywhere on the front dash panel
- inside the glove compartment
- inside the center console in between the front seats
- on the back of the radio
NOTE: If the "AUX IN" or "LINE IN" connection is on the back of your car radio, you may want to consider professional installation.
