Does yours have the category button? When I try to use it it just says its an xm feature.

 

I figured you were asking me, so I just went out to the garage & checked... cause now I'm curious too!

Yes, my radio lists "station", "song", "artist" & "category" w/ buttons for each. (a "back" button too) I usually have "song" selected so I tried "Cat" and yes it displayed the style/genre of music etc.

However, all my radio pre-sets are set to XM stations... I don't listen to local Cleveland radio BS!

 

Just curious, what radio pkg/option do you have in your HHR? Do you have XM? (subscription etc)

Now, while thinking about it... the "Cat" button might NOT work unless you have XM operational. I know that some FM radio stations transmit "RDS" info/data but might not list a category.

Also, for more info: See Section 3 of your Owners Manual.

 

You were "right on" with the $500 price. I contacted my dealer and was quoted $270 for the radio + 2 hrs. labor for the install.

 

I just got my 2LT six disc etc. and the only thing I can find on the stereo about xm is if I push the trac button the readout says XM FEATURE ? What do I need to do to recieve it?

 

Your radio isn't different. There are three radios used in the HHR, the base radio is only in the LS and can't play MP3 files. The other two radios (one which contains a CD changer) are able to play MP3's, host the GM XM receiver and support the upgraded Pioneer audio system.

The reason you don't see a data port on the radio is because the XM receiver and the radio communicate over the vehicles GMLAN interface. The audio from the XM receiver is feed in to the head unit on pins 1 and 2 of the 16 pin connector.

I hope this helps to clear the confusion. :)

 

Ah...

Another reason why we hate newer GM's at the shop :)

 

Now it doesn't HAVE to be the factory XM receiver now does it? Shouldn't one of the other aftermarket brands, like Sirius, Delphi, or even the after market XM work?

 

Unless you can do some serious modifications...an aftermarket won't work- they use different connections.

 

Forget XM...Get Sirius...If you can afford it, buy the S50. It's like a satellite radio and an Ipod together. If not, the other units have enough rebates to bring them down well below the $100 mark.

When your ready to install search for my S50 install thread. It'll get you up and running in no time.

Ng