XM Radio
 

Hello all. I would like to know how to tell if my car radio is XM compatible. I would like to get it but can't seem to find if it is or isn't.

Two thoughts come to mind: look on line for a VIN decoder to see if your X has the sat radio option, or turn on the radio and try to turn on the satellite band. If you have everything, it should give you a screen with subscription information and the radio number (or whatever they call the satellite number) which you need when you subscribe.

Thanks 14th. I am going out to see if I have the SAT option on it. Would BMW put in a new radio for the SAT option or could I program it in?

My guess is you don't have "SAT" as a choice.
Do you?

It's in the Entertainment screen

http://reviews.cnet.com/i/col/di/idrive_440.jpg

Once you select Entertainment the top bar should indicate the following Sources:

FM, AM, SAT, CD, AUX

Do you have these?

head over to bimmer.work : VIN Decoder for BMW and put the last 7 characters of your VIN in there.

You're going to have 3 things occur:

1. You have Sirius Satellite and it's not activated.
2. You have the Sirius prep package (693A I think)
3. You have neither

If you have 1 it's really easy because you just need to activate the unit with SXM.

If you have 2 you'll need to get a Sirius receiver and then have your car coded (or do it yourself). You can pick up Sirius receivers for <$150 used.

If you have 3 then... bummer. It's more work than it's worth IMHO and I'd just go with the hardware that SXM provides.

Yes I checked and I do not have the SAT selection. I do have AUX so I will probably get a receiver and work through that. Thanks all!

Thanks for this! I just got around to checking and I do have code 693, Satellite Tuner Preparation. Going to talk to the dealer now to see what can be done and the cost.
Thanks again!!!

Dont go to the dealer..you will pay 2-3x what you should.

Plenty of online stores for models and coding

^^^ I got to agree.

However, if you have to get it at the dealer find it here first and then ask the dealer to price match it.

Original BMW Parts & Accessories | BMW of South Atlanta


You should find something like this:
SIRIUS Radio Receiver. Satellite- radio for 2008 BMW X Series X5. #65129278266

Thanks for the tips all!