A 5-step plan for upgrading your car stereo system
How to build your sound system one step at a time
Building a great car audio system doesn't have to be a budget-straining, all-at-once proposition. You can build the system of your dreams in stages. In this article, we'll share our plan and strategy.
U
pgrading your car audio system in stages is a lot easier on the wallet, plus you’ll get to enjoy hearing your system improve with each new step in the process. The best part is that there's no "right" way to approach it. You can perform the following steps in the order that works best for you.

1. Replace the factory radio
Installing a new receiver makes any system sound better. You'll get more power, which means better sound from your speakers at any volume. Depending on the receiver you choose, you can enjoy music from your iPod® or CD collection, Pandora® Internet radio or a local HD Radio™ station. If you're into satellite radio (or want to be), choose one that's SiriusXM-Ready. Hands-free calling is practically an essential these days, so look for a receiver with built-in Bluetooth® connectivity.
To learn more about your aftermarket stereo options, check out our car stereo buying guide.

2. Get new speakers
That new receiver will make your factory speakers sound better simply by giving them more power. But if you're happy with the factory radio, skip straight to the speakers. If you're serious about sound, you'll need aftermarket speakers. If you have a 4-door (or more) vehicle, start up front where you sit, then take care of the other locations as your budget allows. Crutchfield carries car speakers of nearly every size, shape, and type. Our Outfit My Car tool will show you which ones will fit your vehicle. And check out our car speakers buying guide to learn more.

Quick tip about speakers
Here’s an expert tip if you’re buying one set of speakers at a time: If your first set of speakers is a full-range set for the front doors, make sure to choose speakers that will also fit the rear doors. Later, you can upgrade to component speakers up front and move those coaxials to the back.

3. Give your stereo system more power
Once you’ve replaced the speakers, the next step is to add an amplifier to give them more power. The added power will make the speakers live up to their true potential, bringing out the details and clarity of your music. You’ll need a 4-channel amp to power your front and rear speakers. Another tip: if you intend to add a subwoofer, you can power it with the amp’s rear channels until you’re ready to add a separate subwoofer amp.
For more info on choosing the right amp for your system, check out our car amplifier buying guide.

4. Time for some bass
For many, installing a subwoofer is the moment they look forward to the most. Even if you're not a major basshead, you'll appreciate the added depth a good sub adds to your music. Be sure to check out our guide to matching subs and amps to make sure you're on the right track now, and in the future.

5. Add a dedicated amplifier to the sub
If you want more thump from your sub, you'll need to give it more juice. A dedicated mono amp will give your sub (or subs) the juice you need to get the bigl bass sound you want. And if your subs are located in the trunk of your car, now's a great time to line the trunk lid with Dynamat to reduce vibrations.
Ready to start upgrading your car audio system?
The great thing about building your own car stereo system is that you can build it your way, on your schedule. If you're ready to get started now, visit our Outfit My Car page and enter your vehicle information to see what fits. If you have any questions, give us a shout via phone or chat.
Luke Rehnberg from Louisville
Posted on 6/16/2022
I got the Jensen Car 8000, and it says it has an amp included, would I have to get another amp too? Or would the one in it be fine
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 6/17/2022
Michelle Catapang
Posted on 10/15/2021
Thank you for providing us with recommendations. Nice content!
Rufus from Seattle
Posted on 5/30/2021
I find this slightly confusing, because if I don't care about other new features in a receiver, then the only reason to upgrade that first is power. But I can get that from an amp, so do I add an amp or speakers first if I'm keeping the factory head unit?
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 6/1/2021
Brent W from Phoenix
Posted on 4/27/2021
I think mentioning a 5 channel amp is worth noting. Although it's not always the most economical nor performance choice. It's the most simple and practical choice for someone who wants to add a subwoofer/power 4 speakers. Otherwise it can become a space issue as well as become too complicated for an amateurs skills. Great post though!
Ryan S from Brooklyn, NY
Posted on 3/12/2021
I have 2005 Honda Odyssey. It has an aftermarket stereo and it sounds very lackluster. I need a double DIN with Bluetooth and Android Auto, if possible. Any suggestions?
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 3/15/2021
Brian Smith from Austintown, Oh.
Posted on 11/16/2020
I have a 2020 tacoma with the "premium" jbl system. Needless to say, by the quotes, it is far from premium. It does have decent sound, it just really lacks volume and power. Can I replace the factory amp with a better, more powerful one? I'm guessing it's not anywhere near that easy. I don't want to break the bank being as I upgraded and paid for the premium package on the truck just for a better sound system than my 2017 tacoma had. Thank you for any info you can provide!
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 11/17/2020
Anthony Kendrick from Aldinga Beach
Posted on 9/22/2020
I've followed each of these steps over time. Is the next step to upgrade speakers again or to add more speakers? currently have components in the front, coaxial in the back and sub (all amplified of course).
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 9/22/2020
Ramón from New York
Posted on 6/27/2020
Hello there I have a kenwood aftermarket receiver installed, so would like upgrade speakers on my Toyota Highlander 2016 Trim LE 2.7L. Then, my question is: should buy whole 6 speakers system? Or could buy Just front and rear speakers and keep the stock 3 1/2" dashboard speakers? If yes, should it to be same impedance, RMS watts, and peak watts for all them? Thanks a lot in advance
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 6/29/2020
Manuel from San Jose
Posted on 4/27/2020
Hello i have upgraded my whole sound system on my vehicle. 2014 Ford Fusion 1.5 L. I upgraded all 4 doors after market fosgate speakers. And I have 2 12" alpine subs with a 5 channel 2500 watt amp. I also have stock radio stock alternator and stock battery. I hardly bump the subs full volume, it's always less than it's full potential. There is times where my car dies and I just jump start it but one time not even the dash lights turned on and I got it jumped and it turned on. I got the battery and alternator tested and it passed so I'm not sure what to do. The car starts up fine with no issues but that's because I haven't been really using the system I just turn down the subs all the way and just use the door speakers.
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 4/29/2020
m.bennett@lifeconnectchurch.org from severn
Posted on 3/13/2020
my teen son has a 2004 Chrysler Pacifica with 7 speakers total, 1 center dash, 1 small and full size in both front doors and 1 each side rear doors. Can he replace his receiver with a decent Bluetooth model and replace the front speakers for less than $350 installed?
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 3/16/2020