How to Refresh your XM radio signal

In 2008, the U.S. Justice Department approved the merger of Sirius and XM -- two competing satellite radio companies -- creating SiriusXM. SiriusXM provides standalone radios and also comes as optional features on 11 car manufacturers, including General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Hyundai, Honda, Nissan, Audi and Volkswagen. When your signal become intermittent or fails completely, you may need to refresh the link between your radio receiver and SiriusXM's satellites. This is a straightforward process that is identical to the process used to activate your radio.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access

1. Turn your XM radio on

Turn your XM radio on. Position the antenna -- if a standalone receiver -- facing skyward. If you are refreshing an in-car unit and you park the vehicle in a garage, pull the vehicle out of the garage.

2. Tune your XM radio receiver to station "0"

Tune your XM radio receiver to station "0" and observe as an eight-digit, alphanumeric code appears on the screen -- this is the XM radio's ID. Notate this ID. Please note that SiriusXM does not use the letters "I," "O," "S" or "F" in radio IDs.

3. Tune your XM radio to channel "1."

Tune your XM radio to channel "1."

4. Log onto the internet

Log onto the internet and direct your browser to the SiriusXM website.

5. Place the pointer over the "Help & Support" link

Place the pointer over the "Help & Support" link on the top, right of SiriusXM's website, and click "Refresh My Radio."

6. Type your XM radio's ID in the text box

Type your XM radio's ID in the text box labeled "Radio ID (ESN or SID)," and click "Send Activation Request."

7. Wait approximately five minutes

Wait approximately five minutes as your radio's signal refreshes. A message on the display alerts you when the refresh is complete -- the exact message varies, depending on the style of receiver.