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Whether you bought a new car with a factory trial or are setting up an aftermarket receiver, follow these steps to get your signal.
Step 1: Locate your Radio ID. Turn your radio on and tune to Channel 0. Your 8-character ID will display on the screen. (Note: The letters I, O, S, and F are never used).
Step 2: Position for reception. Ensure your vehicle is parked outdoors with a clear, unobstructed view of the southern sky.
Step 3: Initiate activation. Visit siriusxm.com/activate. Enter your Radio ID and choose your subscription plan.
Step 4: Receive the signal. Keep your radio powered on and tuned to the preview channel (Channel 1 or 184). Within 3–5 minutes, you will see an "Updating" message, followed by your music.
If you are struggling to access your account, focus on these common resolution paths.
Forgot Credentials? Visit siriusxm.com/forgot to retrieve your username or reset your password.
"Account Unavailable" Error: This often occurs if you signed up through a third-party retailer (Apple, Google, or Roku). You must manage your subscription through that store’s "Subscriptions" menu, not the SiriusXM website.
Locked Out: If you entered your password incorrectly too many times, wait exactly 15 minutes for the security lock to lift before trying again.
You need this ID for almost every support task.
Method A (Channel 0): Tune to Channel 0; the ID displays automatically.
Method B (System Menu): If Channel 0 doesn't work, navigate to your radio's Settings > System Info or Diagnostics menu.
Method C (Physical Label): For aftermarket plug-and-play radios (like the Onyx series), look for the sticker on the back or bottom of the receiver unit.
If you hear silence or see an error, try these in order:
Refresh the Signal: Go to siriusxm.com/refresh to send a new authorization ping to your radio.
Clear Browser Cache: If using the web player, clear your cookies and cache, then log in using an Incognito/Private window.
Check Hardware: If you see an "Antenna Error," inspect the cable connecting your roof antenna to the back of the radio dock for any pinches or cuts.
A "Refresh" signal is a digital command that forces your radio to acknowledge your subscription.
Park in an open area with a clear view of the sky.
Ensure the radio is powered on and tuned to the preview channel.
Visit siriusxm.com/refresh.
Enter your Radio ID and hit "Send Signal." Keep the radio on until you hear audio (usually 3–5 minutes).
Direct Subscriptions: Log in to your account at siriusxm.com/myaccount, go to "Manage Subscription," and follow the "Cancel Service" prompts.
Third-Party Subscriptions: If billed via Apple, Google, or Roku, navigate to your device's subscription management menu (e.g., iPhone Settings > Subscriptions) to cancel.
If the app refuses to play audio:
Check Background Permissions: Go to your phone's battery settings and ensure SiriusXM is set to "Unrestricted" or "Allow Background Activity."
Reinstall: Delete the app and download a fresh copy from the App Store or Google Play Store to clear corrupted data.
Network Check: If you are on corporate or public Wi-Fi, the network may be blocking media streams. Toggle your Wi-Fi OFF and try streaming via cellular data.
Download the SiriusXM app from the Roku Channel Store or Amazon Appstore.
Open the app and select Sign In.
A 6-character code will appear on your TV screen.
On your phone, go to siriusxm.com/tv and enter that code to instantly link your account.
Purpose: This code bypasses the need to type your email and password using a TV remote.
Procedure: Keep the code displayed on your TV while you visit [siriusxm.com/tv](https://siriusxm.com/tv) on your mobile device. Entering the code there creates a secure "handshake" between your account and the television, allowing you to stream immediately.
If you have lost access to your profile:
Use the Recovery Portal: Go to siriusxm.com/forgot.
Verify with Hardware: If you don't know your email, use the "Recover using Radio ID" option. This will show you a partial hint of the email address currently associated with your active car radio, helping you remember which login you used.