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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

See each service page for the specifics that apply to your install.

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.

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?

No. We use properly rated wiring, fusing, and grounding on every install specifically to protect your vehicle’s electrical system — you get the upgrade without the risk of a bad, rushed wiring job.

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, which means genuine product backed by manufacturer warranty — not gray-market units. 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, Compustar, and Clifford 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.

Is your window tint legal in California?

Yes. California requires at least 70% light transmission on front side windows, with darker shades allowed on the rear. We only install legal combinations and will explain the rules for your specific vehicle before anything goes on the glass.

Will tinting interfere with my electronics or GPS?

No. Our film keeps visibility clear and won’t interfere with your GPS, radio, or sensors.

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 Synchrony, Snap Finance, or Acima. See our Financing page for details on each option.

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

We’ve got you covered — bring it back for free troubleshooting or a follow-up visit under warranty. If something’s not right, we’ll make it right.

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. Farther out? Call us — we can often still make it work.

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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