How Do I Know If I Have XM Radio on My Vehicle?
by Kimberly Johnson
XM radio is a satellite radio service installed into the audio system of some vehicles, as an alternative to traditional analog radio. XM radio systems consist of a satellite radio faceplate and a XM satellite receiver. Some vehicles are equipped with an XM-ready radio straight from the manufacturer, while in other vehicles an XM radio must be installed as an aftermarket part. Determining whether XM radio is installed in a vehicle is fast and easy.
Step 1
Examine the faceplate of the radio to locate the letters "XM". Most XM equipped radios are labeled as such. This is the first indication that you have the proper equipment, but it does not mean that the system is activated.
Step 2
Sit inside the vehicle and either crank it up or turn the key slightly to turn on the vehicle's radio. If necessary, press the power button on the radio to turn it on.
Step 3
Locate one of the following buttons on the faceplate of the radio SAT, BAND or AUX. When one of these buttons is located, press it with your finger. Radio face plates vary by model, but usually contain a SAT button. If there is no SAT button, press one of the other buttons listed above.
Step 4
Watch the radio settings dial as you push the button located above. If XM radio is installed and activated, then you will see the letters "XM" beside the radio station numbers. In addition, after pressing the Band button three or four times, an XM band will appear.
Tips
- When scrolling through the XM band, if you only see the numbers 0, 1 and 247, it means that XM radio components are installed but not activated. Contact the XM company to inquire about the service options.
Writer Bio
Kimberly Johnson is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in various online publications including eHow, Suite101 and Examiner. She has a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia and began writing professionally in 2001.
