Save on Installing a CD Deck
A good part of the cost of adding a CD deck to a car is in the installation charge. Many installers charge $50 to $100 and more for installation. Even those shops that advertise $2 installations actually eliminate any cost cutting with exorbitant charges for parts. To keep the cost of installing a CD deck to a minimum, a buyer may want to complete the installation him or herself.
Find a CD Deck that Fits the Vehicle
The first step in completing a CD deck installation is to be sure to buy a CD deck that fits accurately into the existing dash opening in the vehicle. Be aware that not every CD deck will fit every vehicle. Universal adapter kits are available to fit most cars, but the cost of such an item may outweigh its benefit if a compatible unit is readily available.
Tools Required
A few tools will be needed to complete this job, but they are common tools which may already be owned by the new installer. Tools include a screwdriver, probably Phillips, electrical tape, wire cutters, and a wire stripper. Custom tools, if any, will probably be supplied with the unit.
Avoid Any risk of Shock
With tools nearby, the first step in the installation process will be to disconnect the black negative cable from the vehicle's battery. Doing this will completely disconnect power from the vehicle and protect the installer from any risk of shock. Power will be reconnected when the installation is complete, and, of course, the clock will need to be reset.
How to Remove the Old Unit
Next, remove the dashboard and any old audio unit. Removing a dashboard is normally a fairly easy thing to do, which involves only disconnecting a few screws in the glove box, and a few screws at the bottom of the dashboard, and then simply allowing the dashboard to drop to the floor, holding it while it does. If it proves especially difficult, however, a review of the owner's manual may provide needed instructions. In some cases, professional assistance will be required.
CD Deck Wiring
Audio units are connected either by individual wires or a wiring harness. Examine the old unit to determine which was in use previously. The same method will be used with the new unit. If individual wires were used, there will be only a few, having obvious placement. If there is a wiring harness, then a replacement harness can be connected in the same way.
If there is a wiring harness, plug it in and the wiring work is done! If not, then the wires will need to be connected one by one. Start with the speaker wires. There will be two wires, one positive and the other negative. The negative wire connects to ground, being a metal connection like a screw. Wires on a vehicle are color coded, so it will be easy to match wires to connection points. After connecting the speaker wires, connect power to the CD deck itself. There will be two power wires, both red, and the owner's manual for the CD deck will indicate where on the back of the deck power is connected.
Test the New Unit
Last but not least, reconnect the vehicle's battery and test the CD deck. If it works properly, insert it into the dashboard slot. Reconnect the dash board and with that, the job is done. Installing a CD deck is considered a simple job by most mechanics and installers. Given the high cost normally charged for installation, self-installation make sense.
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