I’ve had XM radio for four years and loved it. I’m returning my leased vehicle, and my new SUV does not have XM. I called XM radio customer service and explained the situation. Their solution: They would sell me a SkyFi3 by Delphi. “Just plug it in and go!” was the comment. I explained that I did not want to purchase the available dealer car upgrade, as it involved $400 in installation costs. “No installation is required with the SkyFi3.” Was the reply. So I purchased it.
Today the XM box was waiting for me at home. I opened it up and was staring at bundles of wires, a power adaptor, cradle, clips, clamps, glue, wipes and more. “OK. Lots of options” was my thought. Nope. The “Just plug it in and go!” was a crock of shit. I have to run an antenna OUTSIDE the vehicle – so a wire has to be sticking out a door. Next I have to run a second wire to my existing antenna so my radio will pick up the XM signal. That involves removing a row of seats, a dozen trim pieces, part of the dash and two airbags. My antenna is imbedded in a side window in the rear of my SUV.
Next comes the power cable. This has to plug into a lighter. No built-in power source when used in the car. The cradle requires an external power source. So now we have three cables running off the dash all over the damn interior. What happened to “Just plug it in and go!”
So I call and ask for a refund. No way. It was explained to me that the return policy was In the box I received, and it stated that this was a promotion – no refunds. I explained that I should have been told this when I ordered it. “You saw it on the website when placing the order” was the cocky reply. I explained that I did not place the order on the website, but was talked into purchasing it because it was “Just plug it in and go!”
“No refunds – you orally agreed to it.” I further explained that I did not, but it they could provide proof, I would happily pay for the unit. Otherwise I want a refund. I also explained that they also guaranteed that it would work without dealer installation. Since installing it according to the directions involves removing and replacing three airbags, it requires dealer installation or a professional. Mess with your airbags and the vehicle won’t start.
“No refunds. You agreed.”
Well, now XM can f*ck off. I already filed a fraud dispute. I have an iPod.
