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When it comes to upgrading or repairing your ride, it’s not uncommon for vehicle enthusiasts to look to save on parts and installation costs by going the DIY route. While there are a fair amount of minor alterations you can do yourself, the reality is the vast majority require a level of skill and expertise, as well as access to industry specific tools that make DIY more of a DI-Don’t. What’s often meant to be a “quick fix” can turn into a costly series of repairs that leaves your wallet hurting, causes significant headaches, and leads you right back to professional installation.

At Certified Radio, we’re proud to support Edmonton auto enthusiasts, and to offer trusted installation services that make sure even the most experienced car owners get the exact results they need.

Below, we’ll take a look at some of the perils of DIY installations, as well as the benefits of partnering with our team. Read on to learn more!

Precision and Expertise Are Key

The biggest mistake vehicle owners make when it comes to DIY installs is assuming they are more simplistic than they are in reality. While remote starters, audio systems and other upgrades are easy in theory, many intricate details go into each installation, involving both the products themselves and your specific vehicle model. For seamless and effective system integrations, installers need the expertise to account for all variables, including less obvious factors like existing wear and tear, specialty tools and more. Professional installers have the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of your vehicle’s wiring, electronics, and mechanical components, ensuring that each installation is done correctly the first time. Without the right knowledge and know-how on your side, you risk creating serious issues with your existing wiring, leading to further complications in the long run.

Ensuring Compatibility

Another common mistake people make when upgrading their sound system or installing a remote starter package is that they may overlook overall compatibility with their vehicle. It is essential to make sure that your chosen upgrades are the right fit for your car, and while online research can help narrow the field, professional installers have the upper hand thanks to their built-in access to industry databases and records that help them find an exact match. Attempting to install incompatible components yourself can result in frustration, wasted time, and added expenses that are otherwise avoidable.

Protecting Your Investment

Whether you’re a gearhead or a daily commuter, your vehicle is one of the most important investments you own. Professional installation provides ample peace of mind by guaranteeing that your vehicle will be handled with expert hands throughout the modification process. It’s also worth noting that many manufacturers offer warranties on their products, but these warranties may be voided if the components are not installed by a certified professional. By going the professional route, you avoid warranty headaches and keep yourself protected in the rare case of component defects.

Safety and Reliability

Safety becomes a paramount concern whenever a modification involves wiring or your vehicle’s electrical system. One wrong connection can seriously damage your vehicle’s operational abilities and even put you at risk for an electrical fire. Professional installers adhere to strict safety protocols and standards, minimizing the risk of mishaps while ensuring your upgrade’s proper functioning and longevity.

The “It will be faster” Conundrum

DIYers often fall victim to the “it’s faster on my own” mentality. While yes, certain aspects may be easy enough to do solo and save you the trouble of having to book an appointment, each of the factors above often proves this misconception to be false. Expertise, access to the right resources and a readily available team of fellow technicians make the professional route hard to beat, especially when it comes to the time spent on doing the labour (and avoiding costly mistakes). Unless you have extensive hands-on experience, the professional route is likely to save you the most time, headaches, and be cheaper on your bottom line.

Discover An Installation Team You Can Trust

Since 1967, Certified Radio has been one of Edmonton’s most trusted sources for upgraded stereo and remote start systems and is home to one of the region’s most skilled installation teams. With a foundation set on exceptional customer service and leading expertise, you can trust our technicians to install your next upgrade with confidence and the skills you need to succeed. View our inventory here, and learn more by contacting us today!