These tips should help you address most of the problems with XM and Sirius satellite radios:

Always try refreshing the activation of your radio by going to the XM or Sirius websites and hitting refresh signal. Do check with customer service to make sure the radio has been properly activated. Sometimes the request doesn't get processed right away.

Always check your antenna and make sure it's connected to the proper input on the radio and can get a clear signal. Try to check the cable and connector for damage. Your radio won't receive a signal if you're in a garage or other area where the signal is blocked.

Do set your radio, in most cases to Channel 1, so it can acquire the stations from the satellite. Try to check to see if there's fringe interference from a nearby radio station, in this case, you'll hear either static from the station or voices and music will be heard faintly in the background. Numerous satellite radios are equipped with RF modulators, which use FM frequencies to deliver sound through your car's speakers. Always test the radio with several unused FM frequencies to find the clearest channel.

Always reset the radio by inserting the end of a paper clip into the radio's reset hole to alleviate problems if the back light of the radio doesn't turn off or on or the radio's display doesn't change.