How much does it cost to install a car stereo?

 

The cost of installing a car stereo can vary widely, depending on the sound system being installed. At the most basic level, we're talking about the stereo mainframe - the brain of the stereo located on the dashboard.

You can expect to spend £50 at the store to replace the stereo main unit. Upgrading your car's speakers and installing a subwoofer will add to the cost, while installing a DAB antenna and installing speakers where they don't currently exist will add labor costs to the final bill.

The cost of professionally installing a car stereo can quickly add up, so it makes sense to complete the job yourself.

 

Toyota Car Audio System

How to Install a Car Stereo Yourself

 

Does your car stereo still have a tape deck? Does the radio have LW and MW, but no FM or DAB? Would you like to legally use your phone while driving and connect it via Bluetooth, take calls and play your favorite music wirelessly while the phone is in the holder?

There are many aftermarket car audio systems available - some are single DIN (DIN stands for Deutsches Institut für Normung, by the way), others are double DIN. This refers to the size of the holes left after removing the stereo: most "old" stereos are single DIN, but double DIN allows you to use your favorite music wirelessly. Most "old" stereos are single DIN, but double DIN allows you to install something with a touch screen, because as the name suggests, you'll have twice the working area.

 

Car Stereo Accessories - Need to Know:

 

Do car stereos come in standard sizes? We're looking for a standard main unit that can be disassembled at home. Today's modern automobiles are often equipped with audio systems that are integral not only to the design of the car, but also to the dashboard or other screen features that can't be replaced by an aftermarket car stereo.

Safety First If you're replacing your radio, be sure to disconnect the battery when you do so. This is the safest method - but make sure you know how to reset your car's systems (such as power windows). Your Haynes manual will detail how to perform this operation.

How do I remove my car stereo? In some cars, it is only necessary to take out the unit itself. In other cases, you may need to remove a panel or two. Whatever your situation, the manual will show you where these panels are located, as well as where the clips are located.

Prepare your tools Use the right tools for the job! It sounds obvious, but it can be tempting to use alternatives instead of going to the auto parts store to buy the right tools in order to save time and money. Doing so risks damaging something.

 

How long does it take to replace a car stereo?

 

A simple system replacement should be able to be completed in about an hour, but allow more time for unexpected obstacles, such as potential wiring problems or the installation of a DAB antenna. It's always helpful to take photos of where the wires are connected on the original stereo, just in case you get lucky and the old plug goes straight into the new unit.