Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

General discussion

trying to install car stereo, speakers and keyless entry

Mar 10, 2006 1:32AM PST

I've got a 97 nissan sentra gxe with power door locks and etc.
I wanted to install a cd reciever, speaker set with keyless entry and remote start. I keep coming across these keyless entry +remote start DYI packs in stores, but is it that simple to install? Or how much work would be involved.
Also in general, how much does it cost to fit one of those systems in the US.
Any insight would be appreciated.

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
If you like
Mar 12, 2006 11:47AM PST

Do it yourself project, then it's worth a shot. It's not exactly hard to do but just a lot of work. You need to take out your car panels, etc. If proffesionals can do it in 1 or 2 days, it may take you double the time at least.

The keyless starter is not too complicated for older model cars. For newer model, many cars need the car key to be in contact to start the car. So what happen is you need to hook up the autostarter system to a spare car key to fool the security system. So a spare key is required to be placed inside the car (have to hide it ofcourse).

Many stores offer 0 or 1 dollar installation now. They are not exactly free. They will sell the components / system at higher price but in my opinion, it's totally worthed. You know for sure your system is installed correctly and they usually guarantee their installation for a year at least.

I tried doing it myself before. I gave up half way. It's not because I couldn't hook them up, but because I didn't realize earlier on how bad I needed to strip the car. If I continued myself, I might have the car sitting in my garage for over a week (I couldn't work on it full time also). I'd rather have a pro to continue it and get it done in a day. Since I bought the components myself, I had to pay all the labor and parts for the installations. After I calculated it, the more expensive prices those $0 installation stores charge are actually not a bad deal at all.

- Collapse -
install
Mar 13, 2006 9:38AM PST

unless you are mechanically inclined or do it as a hobby have it done profesionally. you can really screw your car up if you do not know what you are doing. average cost depends on product brand. you are looking at roughly 300 to 500 hundred for some desent stuff. shop around and allways act like you know what you are talking about.

- Collapse -
car stereo installation
Feb 25, 2009 12:54PM PST

well car stereo playes a great role to make every journey very musical and delightful. car stereo installation is also not that difficult as it looks.. you just need to follow step by step instructions, color photos, wiring detail, as well as what tools ans parts you will need to do a professional installation.. so there is one source from where i buyed stereo for my car and other car accessories i.e Sound And Alarm.
Take a look and ENjoy!!!
Thanks,
Have a good day!!