Satellite Radio

[NorthShoreWhaler]

Can someone tell me how I can activate satellite radio in my X5? I don't have the option in the system but I know the hardware is in the vehicle. I ran my VIN and have:

693 Satellite Tuner Preparation

Thanks!
J
2016 BMW X5 xDrive35i
Glacier Silver Metallic/Black

[XXX5]

I believe tuner prep just means the wiring is in it, you would need to purchase the actual receiver part and have it installed. Maybse someone else can confirm this

[nyalpine90]

i think you need a code...
what site did u use to check?

[XXX5]

After a little research it looks lime you need fsc code amd then the sat nav needs to be coded to activate it. Dealer can do all of this but $$$. I understand there are other alternatived that can help with this cheaper

[nyalpine90]

interesting i have same S693 Preparation BMW satellite radio
i dont have sat radio, i guess it can be activated!!

suscribed!

[Almaretto]

If you have menu option in idrive, you can setup account on SiriusXm and use Radio ID to purchase subscription.

[artem123]

This issue have been discussed plenty of times. Cars are prewired and "ready". Best way to get SAT radio is go to https://www.bimmer-tech.net
They will provide with activation code and coding. I never needed SAT radio, but if I ever need one, I will go through this route.

[NorthShoreWhaler]

Artem-
Checked out bimmer-tech.net. Great site. Exactly what I was looking for.
Thank You!

[artem123]

Originally Posted by NorthShoreWhaler

Artem-
Checked out bimmer-tech.net. Great site. Exactly what I was looking for.
Thank You!

Great! If i keep my after lease is up i will be using them for sound upgrades)))

[Chadmatic]

FWIW... SiriusXM uses low-quality compression, plays the same songs over and over again, will make you jump through hoops when you finally decide to cancel the service, and will then spam you to death with offers after you do cancel the service.

[ano0oj]

There's an aftermarket company on the boards that does this at a significantly less cost than what BMW offers.

[Almaretto]

Originally Posted by Chadmatic

FWIW... SiriusXM uses low-quality compression, plays the same songs over and over again, will make you jump through hoops when you finally decide to cancel the service, and will then spam you to death with offers after you do cancel the service.

When it originally came out, the programming was better. Now, I equally find it redundant and filled with ads. One of my favorite stations used to be the comedy channels; now, I only get quick, "promo-like" snippets, rather than complete sets.

It is good for areas where the HD radio stations are not any good, but I often prefer LA radio to Sirius. Most of the time, though, I use usb flaac audio.

[artem123]

Originally Posted by Chadmatic

FWIW... SiriusXM uses low-quality compression, plays the same songs over and over again, will make you jump through hoops when you finally decide to cancel the service, and will then spam you to death with offers after you do cancel the service.

Could not have said any better. Ones I was a subscriber, and after they routinely overcharged me, lied to me, hanged up on me, I decided to call it quits. It took me forever to cancel. Only formal complaint to BBB did it for me. Never again I deal with XM/Sirius.