Just ordered an XpressRC ($30 rebate makes it about $100), and while I am awaiting delivery, I have a few quick questions for those who may have done this already.

First, is the satellite antenna still under the passenger seat in the 09 MCS models? I have the Convenience (comfort access) and Cold (heated seats) pkgs. I have looked under the seat without removing it yet, and I see a metal pan lid held down at the corners by phillips head screws. Under the driver seat is the same metal pan. Reading through previous threads while I was awaiting delivery, I saw that there was easy access to the antenna connection under a plastic lid (for those with convenience pkg). I expect to remove the seat when I get the XpressRC and the antenna cable. Just wondering if anyone has done this yet.

Second, is there any audio (signal) difference between a straight 3.5mm audio aux input cord and a right angle one? As I expect to locate the XM unit in or near the cubby, I would think that a 90 degree aux input plug would allow a better fit into that area.

Thanks in advance - Chuck

 

Can't answer if 09 has the SAT antenna in same place as does the 08 -- but since there were no major changes in the car I assume the antenna is still there. Regarding the straight or right angle plug, there should be no electrical difference. I ordered the antenna extension cable with right angle plugs on both ends. In my case, I have a Sirius Stiletto2 mounted using the ProClip...and the right angle plug at the unit was needed for the mount (your new unit may be different -- can't help there). By the way, when I connected the antenna extension under the seat, I just pulled the existing antenna plug out from under the panel and plugged the extension cable in without tucking it back under the panel again. In my case I had to remove the seat to get to it (others have been able to do it just by moving the seat all the way back). By just leaving the existing antenna plug exposed under the seat, if/when I want to remove it, I don't have to go to all the trouble of again removing the seat---- just a thought. For the plug into the AUX jack you can use either straight or angled, but the right angle plug is a little more "out of the way." Good luck with your installation, shouldn't be too difficult.

 

Whatever you do... DO NOT TURN THE CAR ON WHILE THE SEAT IS OUT. In fact, leave your keys far away from the car. Otherwise, you'll have to make a trip to the dealer to have your air bag light reset.