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[jacket320]

I've been wanting to replace the audio system (all speakers + receiver) in my car since I bought it in 2001. I think I'm finally going to pull the trigger and get around to doing it. Has anyone installed a system themselves? Is it too difficult? All the videos and stuff that I've found online make it seem like it wont be that big of a deal and only take a few hours. Is this true? Anyone have any horror stories or "buyer beware" type info they'd like to share? Thanks in advance!

 

[spermatic cord]

Easy. Took less than an hour the first time ever doing it. Bought a head unit from Crutchfield because it came with the parts and stuff for easy installation.

 

[Anton668]

Its easy to do. And since your not rewiring the system, it shouldnt take too long.

Just be lucky you dont have my car, I cant replace the stereo.

 

[Zaraki_Kenpachi]

Easy if you have a third party radio in already. I always had trouble taking out factory radios.

 

[jacket320]

Easy. Took less than an hour the first time ever doing it. Bought a head unit from Crutchfield because it came with the parts and stuff for easy installation.

That's what Im going to do too. Did you have to pick up the crimp set too or did you solder the wiring together?

 

[Ecto311]

I have done this quite a bit. The most important things for me were the wiring harness. Use some solder and make sure the harness you buy is good and insulated/soldered from everything else and all the wires match up. Another thing is to put some solder on the connections between the wire and speakers in the doors. Before you solder put some heat shrink on there and shrink it down when you are finished. It makes a water proof solid connection that wont crackle over time. Then make sure you don't break the clips on the doors and speaker panels. Its a bitch to have to go to the auto maker or parts shop to get extra clips when you can get out the original ones without breaking them.

Also get the sizes for your doors and make sure the speakers fit. I had an passport that I thought was 5 inch and was smaller. A little work with a dremel made the holes work. Thankfully the covers didn't show my plastic grinding work.

If you have any questions post them here or check some of the model specific forums. There are usually tons of posts showing how to do the install and tricks/tweaks to make it easier.

 

[Shawsie64]

Yeah easy as. I done a whole system in my current car, even sound deadened the panels. Just take your time. And when/If something does die you know exactly how to get to it.

 

[jacket320]

Thanks for the advice Ecto311, I will definitely post if I have some installation trouble.

Yeah easy as. I done a whole system in my current car, even sound deadened the panels. Just take your time. And when/If something does die you know exactly how to get to it.

How much of a difference did you notice after you deadened the panels. Did it make a lot of difference with road noise? I thought about trying that too but figure I can just do it later after I get the system in and see how it sounds.