How to Hook Up a Car Audio Receiver

In order for your vehicle's stereo to function accordingly, you must have a properly working audio receiver. If yours breaks or you must want to repair it, a systematic process should be followed to hook up the car's audio receiver.

Supply List

• DIN tool


• New receiver


• Screwdrivers


• Soldering iron


• Wire cutters


• Wire strippers

1. Decide on a receiver you want to purchase. Do not forget to take into consideration that some are only compatible with certain makes and models of cars. You may have to contact someone in the electronics store or department to assist you with choosing the correct one for you.


2. Park your car preferably on a level surface. Use your E-brake to make sure the car does not move while you are working.


3. Open up the hood of your vehicle and disconnect your battery, by removing the negative battery cable from the negative battery terminal.


4. Use the DIN tool to remove the stereos. You should hear a clicking noise when you insert it properly. This is your signal to slide the stereo out.


5. Unscrew the screws used to secure the system’s audio receiver.
   Remove the stereo from the dash.


6. Connect the wires to your new audio receiver. This includes the antenna cable, power wires and the speaker wires. Use your wire harness to do so, if you do not have one you will have to solder the wires.


7. Connect your negative battery back to the negative battery terminal.


8. Test out the stereo and make sure it is functioning correctly.


9. Situate the new stereo into place. Connect it using bolts or mounting brackets.