2010 Audio Upgrade Question...

[cnuball21]

Sup guys, new to the forums and have a noob question for you. Just got a 2010 Altima today and I want to upgrade to a touchscreen cd deck with built in navigation. I've found some good deals on crutchfield, but I'm wondering what their kit looks like installed. Also, I've never done any car audio installations on my own, so I'm wondering if I do oreder through them if you guys think its something easy enough I can handle on my own or if I should get it professionally installed. I have manual climate control.

Also, any cd deck recommendations/warnings would be appreciated.

Thanks

[audtatious]

As you have never worked on a car audio system yourself I would suggest you use a audio shop for the install or you will be pulling your hair out for weeks.

[AppleBonker]

OP, welcome!

As you have never worked on a car audio system yourself I would suggest you use a audio shop for the install or you will be pulling your hair out for weeks.

Can't say I agree. Everyone has to start somewhere. Crutchfield customer service is exceptional if you run into issues. One of the members here (known as Doc) did an excellent write-up for swapping out a head unit. There should be a link to it in the FAQ sticky at the top of the A/V section.

As far as the dash kit goes, there is a link in the FAQ for those with manual climate controls. The kit linked there matches the factory finish, and looks 100 times better than the metra kit included from crutchfield.

It will be much cheaper to install yourself, so I would give it a shot. Remember, the members here will provide as much assistance as we can.

Edit: What is your budget? That greatly influences the recommendations anyone might make.

[cnuball21]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I think I might try to tackle it and see what happens.

My budget for the aftermarket deck is about $600. If there's a system that is a little above that and comes highly recommended then no problem. So what you guys think?

[AppleBonker]

$600 for touchscreen with nav? For that price, your best bet might be a Kenwood 5140. You should still be able to find them on eBay or maybe some other sellers. Unfortunately, with car audio, you do really get what you pay for. The 5140 is an excellent unit (not top of the line, but not a bum either) and should suit you quite well. Search around and see if you can find a deal (might even be able to get one under 600).

[DJ_B_Easy]

Also, I've never done any car audio installations on my own, so I'm wondering if I do oreder through them if you guys think its something easy enough I can handle on my own or if I should get it professionally installed. I have manual climate control.

I know how to wire build/wire audio systems, but know (knew) CRAP about cars. I never did an install on my own for my past 3 rides because I have (had) no idea how to take apart the car and put it back together. Just installed my 7" flip out DVD monitor into my AC last weekend and it was CHILDS PLAY. If you can solder and have any kind of mechanical/technical aptitude you can do it. Save yourself a few hundred dollars and do it yourself.

Also, I have the OEM surround Apple is refering to. It didnt fit my head unit so I think I may be selling it, let me know if you want it.

EDIT: It fits double din, Im trying to make it fit my single with a tray. If I cant get it done, for sale...
Modified by DJBeasy at 8:34 AM 3/13/2010