Radio Reception

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Chevrolet Trax and 2018 Buick Encore. 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.

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.