How to Watch SiriusXM Video in Your Car: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you want to enjoy the visual entertainment of SiriusXM video while cruising down the road? Excellent choice! While traditionally known for its audio prowess, SiriusXM now offers a growing selection of video content. Here’s the direct answer: You can watch SiriusXM video in your car primarily through the SiriusXM app via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility on your car’s infotainment system. Alternatively, you can use a smartphone or tablet mounted in your vehicle to stream video through the app, provided you have a SiriusXM Streaming Platinum subscription.

Unleashing the Visual Potential of SiriusXM in Your Vehicle

Let’s delve into the details and explore the different pathways you can take to transform your car into a mobile entertainment hub. We’ll explore the necessary equipment, subscription levels, and practical tips for a seamless viewing experience. Forget boring commutes; with the right setup, you can enjoy concerts, interviews, and more right from your driver’s seat (or, preferably, have your passengers enjoy them!).

Method 1: Harnessing the Power of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

This is arguably the cleanest and most integrated solution. Modern vehicles equipped with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto offer a simplified way to mirror your smartphone’s interface onto the car’s built-in screen.

1. Ensure Compatibility: The first step is to verify that your car’s infotainment system supports either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Most new vehicles from the past few years offer this feature.
2. Subscription Required: You’ll need a SiriusXM Streaming Platinum subscription to access video content. This subscription tier unlocks the entire SiriusXM universe, including live radio, on-demand shows, and, crucially, video.
3. Download and Launch the App: Download the SiriusXM app on your smartphone (iOS or Android) and log in with your credentials.
4. Connect to Your Car: Connect your smartphone to your car’s infotainment system using a USB cable. In some cases, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto is available.
5. Access SiriusXM Video: Once connected, select Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on your car’s screen. Then, locate the SiriusXM app icon and tap it. You should then be able to browse and play available video content.

This method provides a relatively safe and convenient way to watch video, as it leverages your car’s existing screen and controls. However, always prioritize safe driving. Viewing video while operating the vehicle is highly discouraged and may be illegal.

Method 2: The Smartphone or Tablet Mount Approach

If your car lacks CarPlay or Android Auto, fear not! You can still enjoy SiriusXM video using a smartphone or tablet mount.

1. Subscription Requirements: As with CarPlay/Android Auto, a SiriusXM Streaming Platinum subscription is mandatory for video access.
2. Choose Your Device: Decide whether you want to use your smartphone or a tablet for a larger viewing experience. A tablet offers a more immersive experience for passengers.
3. Secure Mounting Solution: Invest in a sturdy and reliable mount. Ensure it securely holds your device and doesn’t obstruct your view of the road. Options include windshield mounts, dashboard mounts, or even headrest mounts for rear-seat passengers.
4. Data Considerations: Streaming video consumes significant data. Make sure you have a sufficient data plan from your mobile carrier or connect to a mobile hotspot if available. Monitor your data usage to avoid unexpected charges.
5. Safety First: This method is primarily intended for passengers, not the driver. As the driver, do not watch videos while driving.

This approach offers flexibility, allowing you to use any device. But it requires a bit more setup and careful consideration of data usage and safety.

Method 3: Exploring Aftermarket Solutions (Proceed with Caution)

While less common, some aftermarket infotainment systems may offer SiriusXM app integration with video capabilities.

1. Research Compatibility: Before investing in an aftermarket system, thoroughly research its compatibility with SiriusXM video. Not all systems support video streaming through the SiriusXM app.
2. Professional Installation: If you opt for this route, strongly consider professional installation. Improper installation can damage your car’s electrical system and void warranties.
3. Subscription is Still Key: Regardless of the hardware, a SiriusXM Streaming Platinum subscription remains essential to access the video content.
4. Local Regulations: Always comply with all local laws and regulations regarding video screens in vehicles. Some locations have restrictions on where video screens can be placed in a vehicle.

This method can offer a more integrated solution, but it requires careful research and potentially significant investment. The biggest concern is whether aftermarket solutions are compatible with SiriusXM video content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about watching SiriusXM video in your car, answered with expert clarity.

1. What SiriusXM subscription do I need to watch video? You absolutely need the SiriusXM Streaming Platinum subscription to access video content. Lower-tier subscriptions only offer audio channels and on-demand audio content.
2. Can I watch SiriusXM video on my car’s built-in screen if it doesn’t have CarPlay or Android Auto? Not directly, unless your car manufacturer has specifically integrated the SiriusXM app with video capabilities into their infotainment system. It’s relatively rare, and usually requires that you have the SiriusXM Streaming Platinum Subscription linked to your vehicle. In most cases, you’ll need CarPlay or Android Auto, or a smartphone/tablet mount solution.
3. Does watching SiriusXM video in my car use a lot of data? Yes, streaming video consumes significant data. Consider upgrading your mobile data plan or using a mobile hotspot with ample data if you plan on watching frequently. Monitor your data usage to avoid overage charges.
4. Is it legal to watch videos while driving? Absolutely not. It is highly dangerous and illegal in most jurisdictions to watch videos while operating a vehicle. The driver should always focus on the road. Passengers can enjoy video content.
5. Can I download SiriusXM videos to watch offline? No, currently, SiriusXM does not offer the option to download videos for offline viewing. You need an active internet connection to stream video content.
6. My SiriusXM app isn’t showing the video option on my car’s screen. What could be wrong? First, ensure you have the Streaming Platinum subscription. Second, check that your SiriusXM app is the latest version. Third, verify that your phone’s operating system is compatible with the latest version of CarPlay or Android Auto. Finally, try restarting both your phone and your car’s infotainment system.
7. Can I mirror my phone’s screen to my car’s screen to watch SiriusXM video if I don’t have CarPlay or Android Auto? While some vehicles have screen mirroring capabilities, they may not be optimized for video playback and might introduce lag or compatibility issues. It is also important to ensure it does not violate any traffic laws. It’s usually better to use a dedicated mount.
8. What kind of video content does SiriusXM offer? SiriusXM’s video offerings include concert performances, interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, comedy shows, and news clips. The content varies and is updated regularly.
9. Is there a way to watch SiriusXM video on my car’s rear-seat entertainment system? If your car has a rear-seat entertainment system with HDMI inputs, you could potentially connect a smartphone or tablet (with an appropriate adapter) to stream video from the SiriusXM app. Ensure that your devices and the rear-seat entertainment system are compatible, and you have an active internet connection for the device.
10. Will SiriusXM add more video content in the future? SiriusXM is continually expanding its content offerings, so it is highly likely that more video content will be added over time. Keep an eye on their announcements and updates.
11. Are there any alternatives to SiriusXM for in-car video entertainment? Yes, there are many alternatives, including streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video. However, these services are separate from SiriusXM and require their own subscriptions and data plans.
12. Can I use a mobile hotspot to stream SiriusXM video in my car? Yes, you can use a mobile hotspot to provide an internet connection for streaming. Ensure that the hotspot has a strong and reliable signal, and that you have sufficient data allowance to avoid overage charges. Also, confirm your mobile hotspot device supports video streaming for best results.

Enjoy the show, and always drive safely! Remember, entertainment should never compromise your focus on the road. Prioritize responsible driving habits above all else.