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Upgrade Your Head Unit

Find the best head unit upgrades here

What do I need to upgrade my head unit?

The vehicle head unit is the part that manages the audio, navigation (if you have one), and climate control system in the vehicle's center console. If you're looking to upgrade your head unit, you'll need to know a few things about what's available and what will fit and work in your car. Here's a quick guide to upgrading your head unit.

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Head unit upgrade terminology and definitions

Are aftermarket head units interchangeable?

It really depends on a few factors, including the make and model of your car, the head unit you're looking to install, and your own personal preference. If you're looking to upgrade your head unit, doing your research ahead of time is crucial to ensure compatibility. However, there are some exceptions. If you have a universal head unit, it may be possible to install it in almost any car. But, you'll likely need to make some modifications first.

Is upgrading with aftermarket head units better?

Aftermarket head units can offer a variety of features that may not be available on your stock head unit. However, they can also be more expensive. It really comes down to what you're looking for in a head unit and what you're willing to pay for it.

Can you upgrade your stock head unit's sound?

Usually, all it takes is a software update and upgrading other parts of your sound system. Like adding amps to speakers, replacing some speakers with aftermarket options, or adding a subwoofer. These upgrades can improve your stock head unit's sound quality without needing to replace it entirely.

What type of head unit do you have?

There are three types of automotive audio systems: single-DIN, double-DIN, and OEM. Single-DIN is the most common type of head unit. Double-DIN units are twice as tall as single-DIN units and can accommodate a touchscreen display. OEM units are specific to certain vehicle makes and models and cannot be swapped out without modifications.

What are you looking for in a head unit upgrade?

When you upgrade your head unit, you're looking for two things: improved sound quality and additional features. If you're just looking for better sound, you'll want to upgrade your head unit's amplifier and speakers. If you're looking for additional features, like hands-free calling or navigation, you'll need to make sure your new head unit is compatible with your vehicle.

How much are you willing to spend?

Head units range in price from $100 to $1,000, so it's important to know how much you're willing to spend before you start shopping. If you're just looking for better sound, you can get away with spending less. But if you're looking for additional features, you'll need to be willing to spend more.

If you're comfortable working with tools and wiring, you can install your new head unit yourself. Just mind every step, because wiring can be a little tricky. And if you mess it up, this issue can end up being pricey to fix. If not, you can take it to a professional car audio installer. Either way, you'll need to make sure your new head unit is compatible with your vehicle before you start.

Does upgrading the head unit affect sound quality?

There is no correlation between head units and the sound quality of your vehicle. The power output of upgrading your head unit might go up though, but the difference in sound quality between a great and awful sound comes from your car's speakers, amplifiers, and power.

Anyone who listens to music in their automobile understands how crucial a head unit is for other things. You'd be completely lost without being able to change the sound, the settings, and control everything from one place.

How to upgrade your head unit?

When you upgrade your head unit, you're looking for additional features. If you're just looking for better sound, you'll want to upgrade your head unit's amplifier and speakers. If you're looking for additional features, like hands-free calling or navigation, you'll need to make sure your new head unit is compatible with your vehicle. You can upgrade your head unit by following these steps:

  • Choose the right head unit. Make sure to select a head unit that is compatible with your vehicle.
  • Remove the old head unit. This can be done by disconnecting the power and ground wires and then removing the unit from the dash.
  • Install the new head unit. Follow the instructions that come with your new head unit to install it in your vehicle.
  • Connect the power and ground wires. Once the new head unit is installed, you'll need to reconnect the power and ground wires.
  • Test the new head unit. Once everything is connected, turn on the new head unit to make sure it's working properly.

Upgrading your head unit can be a simple or complex task, depending on what you're looking for in an upgrade.

What are the signs that you need to upgrade the head unit?

If you're experiencing any of the following problems, it might be time to upgrade your head unit:

  • The sound quality is poor
  • You don't have enough features
  • You can't control everything from one place
  • The unit is outdated
  • It's not compatible with your vehicle

It can be frustrating to not be able to use new utility features available on newer equipment or be unable to install better software like CarPlay on your vehicle. So if that is the case, then you should definitely upgrade your car's head unit to reach your goals.