by Ryan Arduini

Created on: February 10, 2009

When purchasing any new car audio equipment I absolutely recommend having a professional do the install. This also includes remote car starters, alarms and any other car electronics.

I've been employed either as a sales rep or installer for most of my adult life. As cars become more and more technologically advanced it becomes increasingly difficult to perform sometimes even the simplest install. For example, installing a remote car starter on a 2009 Nissan Altima with a push-to-start ignition involves soldering connections to the vehicles computer wiring. One mistake can lead to serious problems and could even void the vehicles manufacturer's warranty.

Being in the business I know it takes a certain type of person to perform these difficult installs. You can't just hire anyone off the street. A good professional installer has been taught basic and advanced electronics and theory. They must also be familiar with every vehicle out there. On top of this, especially when designing custom car audio installs, an installer must have a very vivid imagination. This great imagination is used when deciding where to mount equipment and what unique touches they can add to it. This could be anything from adding neon lighting to a black felt covered amp rack.

The best installers are experts in every aspect of the install. This includes wiring the vehicle, preparing the product, building custom boxes and amp racks and all while being on a very stressful deadline. Customers are always in a hurry to get there vehicle done right away. A great installer takes his/her time and assures every part of the install is flawless. Whether it's a simple satellite radio install or a full blown stereo, amplifier, speakers and sub install.

I cannot tell you how many times someone has come in the store and spent a ton of money on some high end amps and subs only to come back a week later with a fried amp or blown sub. We always offer to do the install but some people think they are going to save so much money by doing it themselves. Instead they ruin perfect equipment and we end up doing the install anyways.

Lastly there are many maufacture's that won't honor product warranties if it is not installed by an authorized dealer. Save yourself time and money by having the professionals do the job.I've seen a ton of amazing installs and it's even better when no two are the same. It makes the customer feel so awesome. One of the best feelings I've had is delivering a vehicle and having the customer listen to it for the first time. The best response is a cheesy grin and a thumbs up and I love it!

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