How to Activate Satellite Radio in a Ford

Ford vehicles equipped with satellite radio come with a free six-month subscription. Ford partners with Sirius for this service. Ideally, the dealership you purchased the vehicle from will guide you through the activation process, but customer service isn't a strong point of many car dealers. You can activate the Sirius subscription yourself in just a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Electronic serial number (ESN)

Instructions

1. Write down your ESN (Electronic Serial Number). Ford radios equipped with satellite radio are assigned a 12-digit ESN. Turn your ignition on, press the "SAT" button on your radio and hold down "AUX" and preset "1." Your ESN will be displayed on the radio.

2. Contact Sirius by telephone for activation. The telephone number is 1-888-539-7474. When the system asks if you are a current subscriber, speak "No." At the next prompt, speak "Activate a Radio in a New Vehicle." Wait to speak with a representative.

3. Provide the representative with your vehicle identification number (VIN), name, address and ESN. The representative will activate your free six-month subscription over the telephone; once activated, you'll be able to use your satellite radio.

Tips & Warnings

• You are not contractually obligated to continue the subscription past six months. Once the term is up, your service will be interrupted. If you've enjoyed the service, you can contact Sirius after your free subscription to inquire about extending it.

References

• Ford Owner's Manual (PDF Download)
• Ford Fleet: Sirius Radio
• Ford Vehicles: Sirius Radio