I got my 2006 BMW 530xi 2 weeks ago with 150k miles, and a dubious history. I replaced the spark plugs, water pump, thermostat, and coils, and now i have a great car! I Digress...

Anyways, I have the M-ASK CCC i-drive unit, i think. it has a 6.5" display, non-nav. In the entertainment section, it does show FM, AM, WB, CD, and SAT. When i click on SAT it simply says to call SIRIUS and gives the ESN as well as a number to call. I called the number and signed up for a trial subscription (5 mos for ~$22.)

I have not been able to receive any signal on any channel, it behaves exactly the same as it did before calling sirius. I am wondering if need to do anything else in order to activate satellite radio? Either in my car or with sirius?

I did search, sorry if redundant, I'd really appreciate help. Thanks!

 

Call Sirius back and tell them that you need them to ping your receiver. They will tell you to tune to a particular channel and make sure the antenna is in the open and clear of any obstructions. If that doesn't do the trick, you probably have more serious issues with the sat module.

 

Here's what I learned when I had fits getting SAT radio to work on my ex's MB.


First - move your car outside when you are vetting a SAT radio connection - the signal is spotty at best if you are in a garage.


Second - you have to make sure the car completely powers down. This means opening/closing the drivers door after you turn off the ignition and waiting at least 10 minutes. If you have comfort access then make sure they key is outside of the vehicle.


Hope this helps.

 

I finally got Someone at SiriusXm that was helpful. We were on the phone for about 35 minutes, and did the whole fresh signal, power down cycle a couple of times. It finally did finally take. One note for anyone else trying to activate is I never had a signal on the preview channel, which I've read can point to hw problems. Anyway with SiriusXMs help i went from the "call Sirius screen" on every channel, to working as it should. Thanks!