How Difficult Is It To Install Everything?

[Psychosis 10+ year member]

Ok so here is the situation... I want to replace all of the factory audio parts in my car. I have made a selection of new components and would like to not have to spend the money having to get someone install it for me. I'm wondering if it's possible for someone who has NO IDEA what they are doing to connect everything themselves and make it look clean and professional.

I own a 2005 Nissan Altima 2.5s. I am replacing everything (including the head unit) and I was told (by the guys at Sound Advice) that my car has a factory amp that would need to be bypassed for my new one.

So how difficult is this all going to be? Is it something that requires lots of skill or can it be done by someone who can understand how to follow instructions?

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[LoudCrownVic 5,000+ posts]

Yes. it will be a pain in the ***. You will have to run new speaker wire to all the locations, depending on how the amp is set up. But it's by no means impossible... Id rate it a`bout a 4 of ten for difficulty.

Id suggest you have someone with you who at least knows how to remove door panels without breaking them to help you.

How much mecahnical experience do you have?

 

[Chevillac 5,000+ posts]

In that car, if you dont know what you are doing, I wouldnt try it myself. I know I wouldnt.

 

[mikey060 10+ year member]

yes it is very possible. follow this http://www.carstereo.com/help/index_installation.com or soemthing like it and youll be on your way. and of course, ask lots of questions...after usuing the search button

Then again, it depends on your confidence in yourself and all that

 

[Psychosis 10+ year member]

I have confidence in myself... I mean I hate to use the cliche phrase "if you put your mind to it..." but I can do pretty much anything if I put good effort into it, BUT I am a perfectionist and I don't think I could handle the thought of me ****ing up my beautiful car.

If I went to a place to get my system installed what would you guys say it would probably cost me (gimmie a range)?

 

[LoudCrownVic 5,000+ posts]

Anywhere from 25-100 bucks I'd say... i had my first systems put in by "professionals" and to install a HU and run some wire would cost about that from my experience.

 

[dak0ta_g33k 10+ year member]

well, for me, i also joined a vehicle specific forum, they had lots of posts for specifics about pulling interior panels and little tricks for running wires and mounting stuff.

nearly all of my factory stereo upgrade was done by myself, with the help of info i found in various forums

 

[Prowler573 5,000+ posts]

Here's something that might be of help (for 5 bux it couldn't hurt, right?)

A set of instructions of how everything in your car comes apart and whatnot for upgrading the stock audio system.

As I was picking the car it gave me an option of with or without the Bose system - I'm assuming since you have an OEM amp that you have the Bose gear?

At any rate - Crutchfield's MasterSheets are pretty good as I recall from having gotten them for several different cars I've installed stuff in over the years.