Part 1: Preparing to install your Car Stereo
The most common customization that many people put in their car is a new car stereo. Most will have their car stereo professionally installed spending up to hundreds more on top of the cost of the stereo. For many, though, the added cost of installation means that they cannot get the stereo that they want at this time. Installing your own car stereo can save you a lot of money, and you can make it look just as nice as a professional installation. All you need is a couple of tools, a few parts, and a little time. Taking a little time to prepare ahead of time will save you a lot of time during the installation.
Your New Car Stereo:
When you decide on what car stereo you want to install in your car, take the time to ensure that it will fit into your car. Some cars will only accept a “Single DIN” car stereo, meaning it will only accept the standard rectangular size. Others will accept up to a 1.5 DIN, 2 DIN, 2.5 DIN, etc… If your car will only accept up to 1.5 DIN, you must choose a single or 1.5 DIN stereo.
In-Dash Receiver Kit:
This is a kit that will allow your dash to physically secure your new Stereo. Many older cars will use a universal kit, but any car that has A/C controls built into the stereo face, a trim piece that acts as the face, or an opening that is not square or rectangle, you will need a kit that is specifically customized for your car. A note of caution here, there are many manufacturers of kits out there. You can find kits for the same car that look the same ranging in price from -. In many cases the cheaper kits do not fit as securely allowing the stereo to move around as you drive or do not allow the stereo to fit all the way into the dash as it should. In either case you are risking damage to the stereo, dash, or other equipment behind the dash. This can cause more expense than the Stereo originally cost in repair bills. I suggest ordering a kit from a trusted source such as Crutchfield or JC Whitney or picking one up at a local reputable car stereo shop. Most from discount stores you should stay away from. There are exceptions but unless you know the difference, it is safer to stay away from them.
Wiring Harness Adapter:
In most cars there is a simple harness with 1-3 plugs that the back of your stereo. This
