How to Install a Car Stereo
Do you want to save money? You might be able to install your car’s stereo system yourself. You can do it! Spend that money on hardware. Spend it on hardware, not labor. You can also learn a lot by doing your own car stereo installation. It is hard to beat the satisfaction of seeing your creation in action, running flawlessly and smoothly. How to Install a Car Stereo
Be careful not to damage expensive hardware. Most car audio hardware is easy to install. You’d be surprised at how many parts have special shaped sockets or slots. It would fit exactly where it was supposed to. It’s better to be methodical. How to Install a Car Stereo
You must decide what type of car stereo system you want to install in your vehicle. A car stereo installation is best for beginners. It’s possible to leave the more complicated parts to professionals like motorized parts and LCD panels. Particularly if you need to create custom panels. How to Install a Car Stereo
One of the most straightforward parts of a car stereo system installation is the head unit. Most units conform to the same dimensions (DIN). Many cars will allow the aftermarket radio to fit into the hole if the factory radio has been removed. If the factory hole is not large enough or too deep, a kit will be needed. Sometimes the dash must be cut. Kits for installation should be available at any car stereo shop. How to Install a Car Stereo
Two types of mounting are available for car stereo installations. ISO mounting allows the radio to be attached to existing brackets on the factory radio, as is possible in many Japanese cars. Ring mounting refers to aftermarket radios that come with a metal band that is attached to the factory radio hole. Many cars require that the dash and trim rings be filed in order to increase the radio hole. After the ring has been installed, the radio slides into place and is secured by snaps. Most cases require special tools to remove the radio. How to Install a Car Stereo
A car stereo system installation is incomplete without speakers. The sound quality will be poor, no matter how expensive the speakers.
A simple car stereo installation will likely use speakers that are compatible with a factory location. Make sure that there are no holes or gaps. Sometimes, a fiberglass or wood baffle can be used to reduce the sound and improve the quality. Be careful when working with power tools near speakers. Most car stereo installation warranties don’t cover holes within speakers.
Sometimes metal must be cut for unusual speaker locations. This is something you might prefer to leave to professionals. If you insist, a pair (left and right) of metal snips will suffice.
Car stereo installations must tolerate vibrations and other noise sources. Although it is impossible to completely eliminate the noise and rattling from non-luxury vehicles, there are some products that can help. Sprays, adhesive strips and carpeting can make a huge difference to the panel’s sound and vibration.
