How Do I Add Or Remove SiriusXM From My Car?

Dustin Hawley | Nov 10, 2022

Modern cars are equipped with various technologies. From complex infotainment systems to more advanced cruise control, vehicles have come a long way and offer multiple possibilities for the driver.

The features got so complex, in fact, that companies started to offer subscription-based services to drivers. These, of course, include Sirius XM, which allows making your radio listening experience more enjoyable.

How Do I Add Or Remove SiriusXM From My Car

However, not everyone enjoys the benefits it provides, and consider removing the service altogether. If you ever wondered how to do just that, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

What Is Sirius XM?

If you are familiar with Netflix, you know how the deal goes. You subscribe to the service and, in turn, receive benefits such as high-quality movies and series with no commercial integrations. Sirius XM is practically the same, the only difference being that it focuses on radio stations and involves satellites.

SiriusXM offers a broader variety of programming than traditional radio and much better reception. But the problem most people have is that it comes pre-installed because car companies partner with the service provider and put it in one way or the other. Moreover, there are complaints that it turns on whenever you start the engine. 

As many drivers prefer compiling their playlists on the phone and connecting it to the vehicle, they don’t require such a service. They’d want to remove it to save money or avoid any potential subscription issues.

The Easiest Way To Remove It

Some car models come with a designated button on their radio console, responsible for turning Sirius XM on or off. In such cases, you can’t remove it at all, and your only choice is just to never use it and cover the button with black tape. 

But if you are dealing with a trial period and manufacturers didn’t fully integrate it, you’ll have to cancel the subscription on their website. Alternatively, you could wait things out as the trial will end eventually. 

If you are an active user with an extended subscription and change your mind at some point, just call customer service, and they’ll help you sort things out. 

More Complex Methods

Sometimes, your car already comes with a radio, where Sirius XM is the default option. Here you will have to refer to the owner’s manual and see how you can reprogram things to your liking. Usually, it involves finding the “Advanced Settings” option and cycling through with the “Source” button until you find Sirius XM. Then all that’s left is to remove it. 

If you can’t reprogram your radio at all, the problem is even more complex. In all likelihood, your vehicle has a unique radio that only supports Sirius XM, or the manufacturer never included the reprogramming option. You must remove it entirely or deal with a particular module inside. 

As we mentioned in the beginning, having this subscription is a matter of taste, but it does bring certain benefits to the table. 

How To Install Sirius XM And Its Pros

Sirius XM is satellite radio and enjoys a much better reception practically everywhere you drive. You can listen to your favorite stations almost everywhere and will never have to switch. Additionally, you may never again enjoy this subscription, as access to any of its programming may not be supported in your area. Plus, you could damage the radio itself while trying to get rid of the service. 

So, if you are on the other side of the fence and want to have it installed, consider subscribing to the service. Ensure that your radio supports Sirius XM; you have a few options if it doesn't. You could buy an aftermarket Sirius XM-ready radio or a designated adapter kit that allows it to work. 

Summary

Sirius XM is a solid satellite radio service with a subscription model that can be highly convenient for some drivers. If you find it too troublesome to deal with or it was “forced” upon you by the manufacturer, use our advice, and you’ll sort things out as quickly as possible.

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