Radio Reception

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2020 Cadillac CT4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

AM/FM Radio Signal

The radio signal is sent from a broadcast station and is then received by an antenna. The strength of the signal received depends on the following:

The power output (wattage) of the broadcasting station
The location of the vehicle (or receiver) relative to the broadcast tower.
Height of the broadcast antenna
Height of the receiving antenna
Obstacles between the tower and the receiver
Atmospheric conditions
What band (AM or FM) the station is broadcasting
Type of antenna and the ground plane

Sirius XM (SXM) Digital Radio Receiver (If equipped)

A service fee is required in order to receive the XM service.

The XM satellite receiver is integrated into the radio. XM satellite radio provides digital radio reception. The XM signal is broadcast from two satellites and, where necessary, terrestrial repeaters. The high power satellites allow the antenna to receive the XM signal even when foliage and other partial obstructions block the antennas view of the satellite. Terrestrial repeaters are used in dense urban areas. These repeaters will receive the satellite signal and re-broadcast them at much higher power levels in order to ensure reception in areas with densely packed tall buildings. Even with repeaters the signal can be compromised resulting in loss of XM.

SiriusXM 360L

SiriusXM with 360L interface has enhanced in-vehicle listening experience for subscribers. The experience now offers more categories and system learned recommendations toward discovering more personalized content.

To use the full SiriusXM 360L program, including streaming content and listening recommendations, OnStar Connected Access is required. Connected vehicle services vary by model and require a complete working electrical system, cell reception, and GPS signal. An active OnStar connected plan is required, if the customer declines OnStar Terms and Conditions the following message can be displayed: Connection Unavailable, Please call OnStar Agent.

Reference the SiriusXM user guide for use and subscription information.

High Definition (HD) Radio (If equipped)

HD Radio delivers subscription free local broadcasting in a digital format which may include song title, artist name, album art, weather, traffic data, etc., on AM/FM bands. Up to four stations could be available on a single frequency for e.g. if radio station is 96.9 FM, the HD enabled radio would have additional broadcasts on 96.9 HD1, HD2, HD3 and HD4. The digital technology allows for clear reception quality and additional information.