XM Satellite Radio Receiver/Antenna

[Gadgetjq]

Hey Solara Guys & Gals,

I've just purchased an '04 SLE convertible and have a questiona about the XM satellite capability of the radio (I can't find any posts or threads about it using the 'search' utility).

he owners manual mentions the radio's XM Satellite function and sure enough there's a button for it but there's no mention (other than checking with the dealer) what kind of XM receiver or antenna is needed, where it plugs in to the radio....basically no info at all.

I'm hoping someone on the forum has installed the XM receiver/antenna and can tell me (and other forum members) where the receiver is available other than dealer and how to install it.

Meanwhile it's about 3 in the morning here, I'm headed out for a top down ride...woo hoo!

Cheers

[johanna16129]

This was posted in the wrong area, by the way. I am sure there have been threads on this topic, but "search" isn't bringing them up. The toyota xm radio requires the receiver as well as an installation kit, which is quite pricey. I just plugged my cheap $35 radio into the auxillary plug in my 07 Solara. If you want a radio which will run through your radio and controls, a less expensive alternative is made by Terk, model XMDTLK, about $160 at xmfanstore.com, but proper installation requires taking out a lot of panels around the dash.

[PXLpainter]

First of all - welcome.
(take a moment to introduce yourself in the "Introductions" section)

It does require getting a "kit" for your car, which includes the receiver, antenna, etc... and it will run a couple hundred bucks if you find a good deal (same goes with Sirius as well).

It takes a lot of pulling stuff apart to install as well - gonna tackle my Sirius install today I think... if I get enough coffee in me to get me motivated this morning that is.

Moving this thread to Gen 2 Audio.

[mekaleka]

I didn't think the XMDTLK unit was compatible with the 04 system.

[johanna16129]

Thanks, you are right, I'm sorry, it won't work for the 04. I had researched it for my car, but the compatability chart says 2006-2007 for the Solara.

[PXLpainter]

FWIW - I just installed my Sirius kit today - much easier than I thought it was going to be!

I used the little "puck" antenna and mounted it on my dash in the center (right next to my radar detector and FasTrack transmitter - so I've got a small "cluster" of black components in one area). Was able to just tuck-in the antenna cable around the edges and down the side trim nicely. Mounted the receiver as per the instructions under the Pass. seat and removed the lower center console and box (they just pop-out). I could easily reach up and plug-in the Sat cable to the back of the OEM HU without taking it out so that saved a bunch of hassle right there.

Whole project took about 1-1/2 hours, including setting up the Sirius system over the phone once it was installed.

Now - going for a long afternoon "test-drive" on this beautiful sunny day!