Anyone tried installing the XM radio on their '04 LS430? I noticed a place on the web where you can buy the module ($488) and I was wondering how hard it is to install or if only the dealer can install it. My dealer still has not installed one so I can not get a firm quoted price for the job, they did quote me $580 for the module though.

 

I am waiting for the dealer to paint the antenna with non metalic paint so that it can be mounted on the trunk lid. It is mounted off center on the drivers side to avoid the main braces in th trunk lid. You need a tunner, a mounting bracket, a wiring harness and the antenna. The tunner is mounted under the trim panel in the trunk lid. all the parts come in a kit. There are two different kits depending on if you have rear seat airconditioning. The cost of the kit is $563 plus installation. Each dealer is supposed to have sent one person to a regional training session on how to install XM radio. I will let you know as this progresses.

 

The price I quoted $488 is for the XM Radio kit (part no. 86100-0W090). My dealer, who has not installed one, said they thought the antenna was mounted inside the car on the rear deck lid next to the brake light. Let me know how it goes, I was hoping the XM antenna was built-in like most other XM ready cars but it does not seem to be the case. I would appreciate any other info you can get me.

 

I decided to wait awhile on installing the XM Radio for two reasons 1. As time goes by, the dealer will have more experience with installing (I don't want to be the guinea pig), and 2. Possible alternative locations for the antenna. In actuality, I have never seen the antenna installed, but I have a silver car, and think that the black "square" would ruin the looks of the car. My dealer told me absolutely that the antenna can only be mounted on the back of the car near the trunk.

I am really getting antsy, though. Don't know how much longer I can wait.