2003 M45 Factory Satellite Radio Install, includes wiring harness...

[jplaw]

Well, here it is. This was a difficult job because I could not find comprehensive instructions on how to install the wiring harness(es) for non pre-wired vehicles. I had attempted to do this 3 times without success until RAGTPZ came through big time and provided the instructions for the harnesses, something that the dealers no longer have. Well, let's get started...

Your kit should come with two fat wiring harnesses that will complete a loop from the head unit to the SAT unit, to the CD changer. This will allow all systems, including the CD changer to function properly.

First, disconnect the negative battery terminal.

Unscrew shift knob and cover with a towel (I scratched my cassette player)Remove shifter plateRemove cassette trim plate carefullyRemove newly exposed screwsOpen armrest compartment and lift up on back of cupholder assemblyRemove hidden screwsPull out center console trim. Be careful not to scratch anything with the metal tabs underneathRemove screws above ashtrayPull to remove ashtray assemblyRemove 4 screws on cassette playerPull out cassette player and unclip plug furthest to the left (facing radio). This is where you will plug in the piggy back from the SAT wiring harness into the radio. Plug the factory harness into the piggy back.Unplug the harness plug from the furthest right (not the antenna plug) and plug in the second plug from the SAT harness, leaving the original plug uninstalled. The other end of the harness plugs into the SAT receiver. Now, here's where my installation differs from the factory. I chose to put the satellite receiver in the dash instead of running those hefty cables all the way back to the trunk.I just removed the radio/HVAC controls by pulling on the A/C vents. It just pops right out. Undo to the harnesses and removeHere's a look at the backThis is where I chose to locate the SAT receiverIf you want to place the receiver in the trunk, begin by removing the trim on the passenger kick panel and follow it all the way back to the trunk. (It will require you to remove the rear seats also). Here are a couple of picsHere is the CD changer harness. This end plugs into the SAT receiverThis end with the piggy back goes to the CD changer itselfAfter removing the glovebox (sorry, I forgot to take pics of this) you have access to the CD changer, harness plugs into the left sideHere is the piggy back to the CD changerI had to shorten my harness, as the bulkiness of this cable would leave too much excess when placing the SAT receiver in the dash. No need for this if your mounting the unit in the trunkThe other end of the CD changer harness goes into the SAT receiverI placed the antenna inside the car as I did not want the paint to get scratchedPut everything back together in reverse order after verifying that the system works. That's It!! You're done!!Here are some pics of the unit in actionI hope this install is helpful to someone. I know I could have used it!


Modified by Bag302 at 5:51 PM 1/21/2010

Hello I am going to install Sirius in my 03 M45 not pre-wired. My Question is have you had any problems since you did your install? Thanks, jplaw

[sebvox]

I did the XM installation last year. Absolutely no problems.

[infiniti_tech09]

any pix of what the antenna itself looks like and where they want you to mount it? i just put in the adapter harnesses in my 03 with a xm receiver but i dont have an antenna.....was thinkin of using a qx56 xm antenna since they are mounted inside on the windshield.....

[Giant Robo]

Sorry for bring this post back from the dead, how can I find if my 2003 M45 is pre wired for SAT radio? Also where could I find the install manual for installing the OEM SAT radio kit?