If you’re planning on buying a new car in the near future, many auto manufacturers are now equipping their vehicles with factory-installed satellite car stereos. With a factory-installed stereo you only need to pay the subscription fee and turn on your radio to begin listening.
But if a new car isn’t in your future, you have other options. Some of the installation methods might be difficult if you don’t have any prior experience installing a car stereo, so if you choose one of these methods but lack the necessary expertise then you’ll need to allow room in your budget for professional installation. Fortunately, there’s also an installation method that practically anyone can do on his or her own (see "Installing a Plug-n-Play Car Kit" below).
To be able to listen to satellite radio in your car, the total cost for the necessary equipment can be as low as $150. You can spend a lot more to get a sleeker-looking receiver unit with more features, but all units will receive all the channels offered by the satellite company you choose. Both XM and Sirius have web sites that give complete information about the features and prices of their satellite receivers. They can be purchased directly from XM or Sirius, or from large discount stores that carry electronics. If you decide you want purchase your receiver locally, call some electronics stores in your area first. Not all stores carry all receiver models, so if you have a good idea of what you want you can save yourself some wear & tear by calling ahead.
Satellite Radio Antennas
All satellite radio receivers require an antenna of some kind. For cars, these are low-profile roof-mounted magnetic antennas, ideally placed directly above your vehicle’s back window. A wire runs from the antenna to the satellite receiver at the front of your cab. The easiest way to bring the wire inside is to use a flat-edge screwdriver, and from the outside gently lift up the seal on your back windshield. Poke the end of the antenna wire through the small opening you make, and pull the rest of it through from inside. The seal will go back into place by itself.
Purchased separately an antenna costs about $50, but one is included with a car installation kit, which also costs about $50 (see "Installing a Plug-n-Play Car Kit").