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Express Car Audio

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Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes — every job starts with a free, no-pressure estimate, whether that’s over the phone or in person at our Hammer Lane shop. We’ll walk you through your options and pricing before you commit to anything.

Where are you located, and what are your hours?

We’re at 1016 W Hammer Ln, Stockton, CA 95209. We’re open Monday–Saturday, 9am–6pm, and closed Sundays.

How long does a typical installation take?

Most single installs — audio, alarms, or tinting — take about 1 to 4 hours depending on the vehicle and equipment. Alarm installs typically run 1.5–2 hours. Larger custom projects can take a full day; we’ll give you a realistic time estimate when you book.

What's your warranty policy?

Warranty terms depend on what’s installed:

  • Window film: in-house film — 1 year, carbon film — 3 years, ceramic film — 7 years
  • Car stereos: 1 year, when purchased and installed through us
  • Alarms: 1 year on select models
  • Amplifiers, subwoofers & door speakers: 1 year on select models

Coverage can vary by product — if you’d like to know about the warranty for your specific products, just ask us.

Do you work on motorcycles and Can-Am vehicles, or just cars?

Both. Alongside car audio, tint, and security, we install weatherproof audio, security, and accessories on motorcycles and Can-Am Spyder/Ryker models, and marine-grade audio on boats and jet skis.

Does Express Car Audio install marine/boat audio systems?

Yes. We install marine-grade speakers, amplifiers, and accessory wiring on boats, with sealed connections designed for water, sun, and spray. See our Marine & Jet Ski Audio page for details, and call for a free estimate.

Do you work on jet skis?

Yes. We install weatherproof audio and accessories on jet skis and other personal watercraft, using marine-rated components and sealed wiring. Every job starts with a free estimate.

Is Express Car Audio the same as Audio Express?

No. Express Car Audio is an independently owned shop at 1016 W Hammer Ln, Stockton, CA, in business since 2004.

Car Audio

What audio upgrades do you offer, and what do they cost?

We install everything from a single speaker swap to a full system build: speakers, subwoofers, amplifiers, and head units from Rockford Fosgate, Kenwood, Alpine, Hertz, and more.

As a starting point: speaker upgrades are starting at $29*, a 12-inch subwoofer with box and amplifier is starting at $149*, and most full audio upgrades are starting at $200*. Final pricing is confirmed with a free estimate for your specific vehicle.

Will an audio upgrade hurt my car's battery or electrical system?

Every vehicle and system is different. Stop by or give us a call and we’ll talk through your setup and answer any questions about your vehicle’s electrical system.

Can I add Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto to my car?

Yes. Hands-free calling and Bluetooth audio are starting at $79*, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto upgrades are starting at $109*. Both are popular add-ons whether you’re upgrading your whole system or just want your phone to work better with your car. Final pricing is confirmed with a free estimate for your specific vehicle.

Is Express Car Audio a Kenwood authorized dealer?

Yes. We’re an authorized dealer for Kenwood, Alpine, Audison, and Hertz. We also install other major brands like Rockford Fosgate, JBL, and Pioneer.

Alarms & Remote Start

What alarm and remote start options do you have?

We install Viper and Compustar systems, from basic alarms with shock sensors up to advanced setups with GPS tracking and app-based remote start. Alarms are starting at $69*, and remote start/GPS systems are starting at $249*. Final pricing is confirmed with a free estimate for your specific vehicle.

Will an alarm or remote start work on my vehicle?

In most cases, yes — from sedans to trucks, including many vehicles with factory push-button start. Wiring varies by year, make, and model, so we confirm compatibility before finalizing your quote.

Does Express Car Audio install alarms on motorcycles?

Yes. Alongside weatherproof audio, we install security and alarm systems built for bikes left parked in public — a common request for motorcycles and Can-Am Spyder/Ryker models alike.

Window Tinting

What window tinting options do you offer, and how much does it cost?

We install in-house film, carbon film, and ceramic film — each with its own warranty (1, 3, and 7 years respectively). Pricing is starting at $149* for most sedans and starting at $249* for SUVs and trucks. Final pricing is confirmed with a free estimate for your specific vehicle.

Where can I read California's window tint rules?

California Vehicle Code sections 26708, 26708.2, and 26708.5 cover material on vehicle windows. The official text is on leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. We’ll talk through film options for your vehicle before any work begins.

Will tinting interfere with my electronics or GPS?

Every film is a little different. Come in and we’ll talk through which film fits your vehicle and answer any questions about your electronics.

Booking & Service

How do I book an appointment?

Call us at (209) 478-6633, or use our appointment request form to tell us your preferred date and time — we’ll call to confirm. Same-day and next-day slots can be available.

Do you offer financing?

Yes — financing is available for projects over $500 through Progressive Leasing, American First Finance, Snap Finance, or Acima. See our Financing page for details on each option.

What happens if there's an issue after my installation?

If something doesn’t seem right after your install, give us a call or stop by and we’ll take a look.

What areas do you serve?

We’re based in Stockton, CA and regularly serve customers within about 50 miles, including Lincoln Village, Rio Vista, Garden Acres, Lodi, Tracy, Manteca, and Discovery Bay. Coming from farther out? Come on by — we’ll take care of you.

Do you offer a military discount or gift certificates?

Yes to both. We offer a discount to active-duty, reserve, and veteran service members, and gift certificates are available for any service we offer — just ask when you call or book.

Don't see your question here?

*Starting prices are a general guide only and may vary based on your vehicle, equipment selected, and installation complexity.

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