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Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Buying a Car

Tips for Buying the Right Car With so many vehicles and choices available, buying a car in Frankfort can feel challenging. Many buyers make common mistakes, such as failing to set a realistic budget, overlooking vehicle history, ignoring financing options, skipping the test drive, or failing to research the dealership. These missteps can lead to higher costs, unexpected repairs, and buyer’s remorse. Understanding these pitfalls is the first step toward making a confident, informed purchase. The best way to make the right choice is to work with a trusted local dealer who understands your needs. At Auto BSA, we pride ourselves on being one of the best car dealers near you, offering honest advice, transparent pricing, and a variety of vehicles for every budget. Whether you’re purchasing your first car or upgrading, our expert guidance ensures you choose a reliable vehicle that fits your lifestyle. With our support, you can make a confident decision and drive home happy, knowing you got the right car at the right price. 1. Not Setting a Realistic Budget One of the most common mistakes people make when they decide to buy a car is skipping the budgeting step. Setting a realistic car budget isn’t just about how much you can pay each month; it’s about understanding the total cost of ownership, which includes insurance, maintenance, fuel, registration, and unexpected repairs. Without a solid plan, buyers often stretch their finances too thin or end up with a vehicle that costs more to maintain than expected. Why Budgeting Matters Smart budgeting allows you to know exactly what you can afford before visiting dealerships or browsing online listings. It’s one of the best car-buying tips because it helps you focus only on vehicles that fit your financial situation, avoiding emotional decisions that lead to overspending. How to Plan Your Car Budget Wisely To plan your car budget wisely, start by evaluating your monthly income and essential expenses. Financial experts often recommend spending no more than 15%–20% of your monthly income on car payments, including insurance. Next, determine whether you’ll pay in full or finance your car with an auto loan, and always factor in interest rates and loan terms. If you’re exploring tips for buying a used car, budgeting becomes even more crucial. While used vehicles can save you money upfront, they may require additional funds for maintenance or part replacements. Set aside an emergency fund for potential repairs and always get a professional inspection before purchase. Also, consider long-term ownership costs, fuel efficiency, warranty coverage, and resale value. A well-thought-out car purchase budget ensures you make a confident, informed decision and prevents buyer’s remorse down the road. 2. Ignoring Vehicle History and Condition When it comes to used car buying tips in Frankfort, IN, one of the most important steps is checking the vehicle’s history report before making a purchase. A car may look perfect on the outside, but its past could reveal serious issues like previous accidents, title problems, flood damage, or inconsistent mileage records. Always Check the Car’s History Report Request a comprehensive vehicle history report from trusted sources. These reports provide details on ownership history, service records, and potential red flags that could affect performance or resale value. Reviewing this information helps you make an informed decision and avoid costly surprises down the road. If you’re buying from a private seller, take extra care, ask for maintenance receipts, and consider getting a professional vehicle inspection before signing any papers. These small steps can save you from expensive repairs later on. How Our Dealership Ensures Quality At our dealership in Frankfort, IN, we take pride in offering only well-maintained, reliable vehicles. Every car on our lot undergoes a thorough multi-point inspection performed by certified technicians. We evaluate engine performance, brakes, tires, electrical systems, and safety features to ensure that each vehicle meets our high standards. Our team follows proven vehicle inspection tips and uses diagnostic tools to catch potential issues early. We also provide a detailed vehicle history report with every used car so you can buy with confidence, knowing exactly what you’re getting. By combining transparent history checks with expert inspections, we give our customers peace of mind and ensure that every vehicle is road-ready and dependable. 3. Overlooking Financing Options One of the most common mistakes car buyers make is not exploring enough car financing options before finalizing their purchase. Taking the time to compare loan offers from banks, credit unions, and dealership partners in Frankfort, Indiana, can make a big difference in your long-term savings. Each lender may offer different interest rates, loan terms, and repayment conditions, so it’s important to review all available options. Comparing Car Loan Options Look for transparent terms, check for hidden fees, and use online calculators to understand your total payment over time. Smart car financing in Frankfort, Indiana, starts with knowing your credit score and getting pre-approved, which often gives you better negotiating power at the dealership. Avoiding High-Interest Mistakes When buying a car, many buyers rush into financing without fully understanding the long-term impact of high interest rates. One of the most costly financing mistakes when buying a car is agreeing to a loan with an unfavorable rate or term just for quick approval. Always read the fine print and compare the total cost of the loan, not just the monthly payment. If possible, make a larger down payment to reduce your loan balance and overall interest costs. Also, avoid extending the loan term too long, as it increases the total amount you pay. Following these car loan tips will help you make a financially sound decision and ensure your new vehicle fits comfortably within your budget. 4. Skipping the Test Drive One of the biggest mistakes car buyers make is skipping the test drive. A vehicle may look perfect online or on the lot, but only a test drive reveals how it truly performs. It’s your chance to assess comfort, handling, visibility, and overall performance before making a decision. Why Test Driving Is Essential Following car test drive tips helps you ensure that the car meets your expectations for both daily driving and long trips. During the drive, pay attention to how the vehicle accelerates, brakes, and turns, and make sure it feels stable on different road conditions. A few minutes behind the wheel can help you avoid costly surprises later. What to Look for During Your Test Drive When taking a car for a spin, focus on more than just how it feels to drive. Listen carefully for unusual noises from the engine, brakes, or suspension. Test all interior features — air conditioning, infotainment system, lights, and mirrors — to confirm everything works properly. Another key part of what to check before buying a car is making sure the seating position is comfortable and visibility is clear from all angles. Don’t rush the process; drive both in city traffic and on the highway if possible. The goal is to feel confident that the car is reliable, safe, and suits your driving style before finalizing the purchase. 5. Not Researching the Dealership Many car buyers focus only on the vehicle itself and forget how important the dealership’s reputation is. Buying from a trusted car dealer ensures transparency, reliability, and peace of mind throughout the entire process. A reputable dealership provides accurate vehicle history reports, honest pricing, and quality customer service — all crucial factors when making a major purchase. Importance of Buying from a Trusted Dealer Before buying, take time to research online reviews, verify certifications, and check how long the dealer has been in business. Working with a dealership that values integrity helps you avoid hidden fees, poor-quality vehicles, and stressful post-sale experiences. Doing your homework before signing any paperwork ensures you’re getting both a great car and dependable support. Why Frankfort Drivers Trust Auto BSA At Auto BSA, customer satisfaction and quality are top priorities. Local drivers in Frankfort and nearby areas trust Auto BSA because of our transparent process, expert guidance, and commitment to helping buyers find the right car for their budget and lifestyle. Every vehicle undergoes a detailed inspection and comes with a verified history report for complete confidence. Our team believes in honesty, professionalism, and long-term customer relationships, not just quick sales. Whether you’re looking for financing help, trade-in options, or advice on your next vehicle, Auto BSA is here to make your car-buying experience smooth, safe, and enjoyable. That’s why so many Frankfort drivers continue to recommend Auto BSA to friends and family. Avoid Mistakes and Find the Right Car with Auto BSA Buying a used car can be exciting, but avoiding common mistakes makes all the difference between a smart investment and future headaches. From setting a realistic budget and checking the vehicle’s history to comparing financing options and taking a thorough test drive, every step matters. Doing your research and working with a trusted local dealership ensures a smooth, stress-free experience. At Auto BSA, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our team helps Frankfort drivers make confident choices with transparent pricing, detailed vehicle inspections, and flexible financing options. If you’re ready to find your next reliable vehicle, visit Auto BSA in Frankfort, Indiana, or browse our online inventory today. Let us help you drive home in a car you’ll love, without the costly mistakes.

2025 Lexus UX Hybrid gets a price bump to go along with Extra Power

Lexus has announced pricing for the updated 2025 UX300h hybrid subcompact luxury SUV. It now starts at $37,490 and ranges up to $47,525 for the top F Sport Handling AWD version. The UX300h replaces the previous UX250h, and it makes more power than before. Buyers of the smallest Lexus SUV will get more for the 2025 model year, but they'll have to pay a bit more for it as well. The 2025 Lexus UX300h features a more powerful hybrid drivetrain, and now we know that its base prices are on the rise as well. The base version is up by just $800, now starting at $37,490, but some trim levels are up by more than $2000. The UX300h replaces the previous UX250h, and its reworked gas-electric powertrain now makes 196 horsepower, versus 181 hp before. The front-wheel-drive model pairs a 2.0-liter inline-four gasoline engine with an electric motor while opting for all-wheel drive, for an extra $1570, adds another electric motor powering the rear wheels. Opting for the Premium trim level with more equipment will set you back $40,690, a $1540 increase from last year. And then there's the choice of two different F Sport versions. The first, called F Sport Design, incorporates just the visual tweaks and costs $41,440, a $2290 increase. The second is called F Sport Handling; this $45,955 model sits at the top of the lineup and adds suspension upgrades including adaptive dampers. Lexus hasn't said exactly when the 2025 UX will start reaching U.S. dealerships, but it's available now to build on the Lexus website so it shouldn't be long before it reaches customers' hands.

The New York is now using cameras with microphones to ticket loud cars

If you live in New York and drive a loud car, you could receive a notice from the city's Department of Environmental Protection telling you your car is too loud. Not because a police officer caught your noisy car, but because a computer did. A photo of an official order from the New York City DEP was published on Facebook by a page called Lowered Congress on Monday, directed at a BMW M3 that may have been a bit too loud. The notice reads as follows: I am writing to you because your vehicle has been identified as having a muffler that is not in compliance with Section 386 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law, which prohibits excessive noise from motor vehicles. Your vehicle was recorded by a camera that takes pictures of the vehicle and the license plate. In addition, a sound meter records the decibel level as the vehicle approaches and passes the camera. The order goes on to tell the owner to bring their car to a location specified by the DEP—a sewage treatment plant, to be precise—for inspection. Show up, and you'll have the opportunity to get the car fixed to avoid a fine—much like California's "fix-it" ticket system. The document also informs the owner that if they fail to show up, they could face a maximum fine of $875, plus additional fines for continuing to ignore the summons. A New York City DEP spokesman confirmed to Road & Track via email the system is part of a small pilot program that's been running since September 2021. From the description above, it sounds like it works much like a speed camera that automatically records a violation and sends it to you in the mail by reading your license plate. Instead of a speed gun, this new system uses a strategically placed sound meter to record decibel levels on the road, matching it to a license plate using a camera. The DEP tells us this new program is unrelated to Governor Kathy Hochul's recent initiative to curb noise pollution in New York. In September 2021 she signed the SLEEP bill into law, raising fines for exhaust noise violations in the state from $150 to $1000—currently the highest in the nation. The program will be reevaluated on June 30, according to the DEP. From there it'll likely either be expanded or taken out of commission. We'll be sure to follow up then to find out.

Honda reveals a new ‘H’ logo that will be used on future EVs

This is the first time Honda has changed the 'H mark' significantly since 1981, and the new version will first appear on Series Zero electric models. Honda is introducing a new version of its "H mark" logo. This new H will appear on future EVs, including the production versions of the recently revealed Series Zero models. Honda says it's meant to resemble two outstretched hands. The Honda logo is undergoing significant changes for the first time since 1981. As part of the reveal of its new Series Zero EV models at CES, Honda showed off a new "H mark" that features a simplified shape and a more modern appearance. The company says the logo is meant specifically to show its commitment to EVs, and said that it will first appear on "next-generation EVs," including the production versions of these Series Zero vehicles scheduled to arrive in 2026. The new logo does away with the squircle-shaped surround for the H, meaning it's far simpler in execution than the badge we've been seeing on Honda models for some time now. The H itself is also wider and more sharply angled, which Honda says is meant to resemble two outstretched hands. It seems that we'll have to wait a few years for the first new model to feature the logo, as we expect it will be the production version of the Series Zero Saloon concept that's coming in 2026. In the meantime, Honda's new 2024 Prologue electric SUV, which is based on a GM platform, will still use the old version of the logo. We're also not sure whether any non-EV Hondas will eventually adopt the new H, but Honda has previously laid out plans for EVs and fuel-cell vehicles to make up 40 percent of its new-vehicle sales by 2030, 80 percent by 2035, and 100 percent by 2040.

2025 Porsche Taycan Skyrockets in price, adds range and charging speed

The 2025 Porsche Taycan lineup's pricing has been released, and the electric sports sedan just became a lot more expensive. The base price for the Taycan has risen from roughly $92,000 last year to $101,395 for the 2025 model year. Sadly, the sporty GTS sedan and GTS Sport Turismo Wagon variants are noticeably absent from Porsche's current U.S. figures, though we expect them to return as well. Porsche freshens up the Taycan for the 2025 model year with a light facelift and improvements to charging and range. Unfortunately for consumers in the market for a new Taycan, those upgrades come with some big price hikes. For the entry-model sedans, the base Taycan now starts at $101,395, marking an $8845 increase over last year, while the 4S increases to $120,495. As for the more powerful Turbo and Turbo S sedans, those now start at $175,595 and $210,995, respectively. A proposed California bill aims to keep certain new vehicles from exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 mph. The bill calls for tech to electronically limit a vehicle's speed starting with the 2027 model year; emergency vehicles would be exempt. The bill would allow the driver to disable the speed limiter, which could also be fully disabled by the automaker or (in some cases) by the commissioner of the California Highway Patrol. Someday in the not-too-distant future, it might no longer be possible to drive a brand-new car faster than 80 mph in California. That's because state senator Scott Wiener earlier this week proposed a new bill that aims to prevent certain new vehicles from going more than 10 mph over the speed limit. In California, the maximum posted speed limit is 70 mph, meaning anything north of 80 mph would be off-limits. Limiting Speed The Speeding and Fatality Emergency Reduction on California Streets—or SAFER California Streets, for short—is a package of bills that includes SB 961 that was published Tuesday, which essentially calls for speed governors on new cars and trucks built or sold in California starting with the 2027 model year. These vehicles would be required to have an "intelligent speed-limiter system" that electronically prevents the driver from speeding above the aforementioned threshold. The speed-limiter tech wouldn't apply to emergency vehicles. There's also language in the bill that the passive device would have the ability to be temporarily disabled by the driver, however, it's unclear in what situations that might apply. The bill also states that automakers would be able to disable the speed limiter fully but presumably only for authorized emergency vehicles. The commissioner of the California Highway Patrol could authorize disabling the speed limiter too at their discretion. "I don't think it's at all an overreach, and I don't think most people would view it as an overreach. We have speed limits. I think most people support speed limits because people know that speed kills," Wiener said, according to ABC7 news in California. The proposed legislation is said to be an attempt to address rising traffic fatalities, which in California have reportedly increased by 22 percent from 2019 to 2022. That's according to TRIP, a national transportation research group, that was cited in a press release about SB-961. A separate report by U.C. Berkley's SafeTREC found that from 2017 to 2021 speeding-related deaths in California increased by about 30 percent; nationally they have increased by almost 24 percent during that time. If the proposed bill gets signed into law, it will make California the first state in the country to require a speed-limiting device. The question would then become which state or states would be next?

Road Trip Guide: 50 Useful Tips to Follow While Traveling

When Planning a Road Trip 1. Once you’ve decided on the destination, the first thing you must do is chalk out the route as it will give you a rough idea of the total driving time and places that will fall en route. 2. Don’t forget to check the weather conditions of your destination in case it’s not advisable at that particular time of the year, or at least prepare accordingly. 3. Have a plan in place but maybe not a rigid one. Figure out interesting places to see and plot rest stops en route. Although when on the road, feel free to explore too. 4. If you’re going to spend more than a day on the road, plan for overnight stops. It is a good idea to make hotel reservations in advance to avoid any last-minute fiascos. 5. Pre-book your stay for your destination too, especially if you’re traveling during the holiday season or even on the weekends. 6. Depending on the destination you’re traveling to and the number of people you will be, you must choose your ride carefully. 7. Get your car serviced before you hit the road to ensure it’s in good working order. Check the fuel, engine oil, coolant, air conditioning, battery, tire pressure, breaks, lights, etc. 8. You wouldn’t want to be stranded on the road with a flat tire so make sure you carry a spare tire kit, which includes a stepney (spare tire), jack, and lug wrench. 9. Invest in a multi-outlet adapter to make sure there are enough outlets to charge devices for all passengers. 10. Be smart with mileage – slow down your acceleration and maintain a moderate speed. Also, avoid rough roads, if possible. 11. Always load non-essential items first in the car and keep whatever you may need end route, such as water and snacks, pillows, camera, or purse, within easy reach. When Packing for a Road Trip 12. The most important thing to keep in mind is to get your key papers in order, including your driver's license, car registration, and insurance papers as well as the owner’s manual. 13. You can carry as much as you want since you’re traveling by road, but it is best to pack light. 14. Don’t forget to pack an emergency kit, which must include a first-aid kit, water, a roadside safety kit, some warm blankets, and a flashlight. 15. If you plan to spend more than a day on the road, keep a separate overnight bag with daily essentials like toiletries, nightwear, and a change of clothes. 16. You wouldn’t want your car to be messy by the end of the journey so pack cleaning items like wet wipes, paper towels, trash bags, etc. for the journey. 17. Make it a point to stock enough water for each person in the car. It would be great if you could keep a stainless-steel bottle or reusable glass to avoid additional waste. 18. It is best to bring non-messy, healthy road trip snacks like fruits, nuts, and sandwiches so you don’t have to stop at every fast-food outlet on the way. 19. The journey is going to be long so you might want to make a road trip playlist with your favorite songs and store it in your smartphone or pen drive. 20. You will come across a lot of tolls end route so you must carry cash with you at all times. 21. For a comfortable and hassle-free journey, you can keep blankets and pillows handy. When on a Road Trip 22. Your guide when you’re on the road is going to be GPS. So, make sure you download maps in advance to save yourself from getting lost, in case there is no cell service. 23. Also, don’t rely on navigation blindly as it might not take into account the types of roads, irregular traffic conditions, etc. It’s a good idea to double-check routes with locals. 24. You might be tempted to take the highways as they are faster but, if possible, take the roads less traveled as you’ll get to see so much more and even meet the locals. 25. Don’t miss out on the chance to grab local grubs so make sure you explore popular culinary hotspots end route. Asking a local about where to eat is better than going by reviews. 26. Eat light and right; save the binging for the end of the day as a big meal might cause a lot of discomfort during the ride and even make you sleep (you wouldn’t want that, right?) 27. It is a good idea to take frequent breaks, say stop every 2-3 hours, maybe to check out sites on the way or for meals or even just to stretch your legs. 28. If it’s possible, share driving responsibilities with other passengers to avoid fatigue. 29. The practical thing to do is ride by sunrise and park by sunset so try and get on the road as early as possible to beat the traffic. Avoid night driving, if possible. 30. Do keep some buffer time for unplanned detours and adventures. 31. Choose your travel companions wisely taking the comfort factor into account; you wouldn’t want any unnecessary complaining or last-minute changes in your plans. 32. It is also important to make sure that you don’t overcrowd the vehicle so that the journey is comfortable for everyone. 33. Plan games or activities to pass the time as it will save you from boredom and also keep all the passengers entertained and active. 34. If you’re traveling with young ones, keep the children entertained with books, puzzles, and other time-killing diversions. When Thinking Safety on Road Trip 35. Make sure you get plenty of sleep before the journey so you don’t feel exhausted. Also, it will ensure that your drive is as safe and efficient as possible. 36. Don’t rush to cover more distance in less time or keep up with the navigation. You must know your driving limitations and drive accordingly. 37. Be alert at all times when you’re on the road. Keep an eye out for wildlife on the road and always be cautious of aggressive drivers or tailgaters. 38. Whenever you’re parking, it’s best to avoid leaving valuables like your wallet, phone, and camera in the car. If you can’t take them along, make sure you cover them well. 39. If traveling with kids, make it a point to activate child safety locks on doors and windows. It is also a good idea to remove any poisonous substances or choking hazards from the car. 40. Avoid pulling over on the side of the road unless it is an emergency, especially at night. 41. If you don’t have experience in say mountain driving or riding on the snow, make sure you prepare yourself for special conditions. Don’t go too fast and pull over to let other drivers overtake safely. 42. Keep your loved ones informed of your whereabouts at all times via text or call. When Thinking Hygiene on a Road Trip 43. Before you start your journey, make sure you disinfect your car 44. Wear masks at all times, or at least when you get out of the car or even if you roll down your windows at tolls, check posts, or a drive-through. 45. Wash your hands or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after leaving the car. 46. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth frequently, especially around crowds. 47. Be wary of eating outside. Eat only at a clean restaurant and drink bottled, mineral water, or get your filtered water and on-the-go eatables from home. 48. When booking a hotel or taking an overnight stop, ensure that you choose a 100% hygienic place to stay. 49. Take supplements to boost your immunity like Vitamin C and D and zinc. 50. Follow all the COVID-19-related guidelines including hygiene practices and social distancing. Last but not least, don’t forget to take a lot of pictures as these are what will make you reminisce about all the good memories you’ll make on this road trip. Be safe, but do enjoy yourself to your fullest! Happy Road Tripping!

Five Most Important Safety Features For Cars

We live in a day and age where car safety has improved tremendously! Safety features can be confusing, but knowing what they are and how they operate is very important. Avoiding an accident is the number one priority whenever someone gets into a car. That being said, there are many safety features available in cars. Here are five of the most important safety features for vehicles: 1. Seat belts Seat belts are the most basic and essential safety features in a car. They keep you safe by keeping you secured to your seat. Seat belts prevent you from being thrown around the car in the event of an accident, keeping you safe. 2. Airbags Airbags are another important safety feature in cars. They are inflatable cushions that are activated in the event of a collision to protect the driver and passengers from injury. This provides the driver and passengers extra protection in the event of an accident by cushioning them from impact. Airbags are typically located in the front and sides of the car. 3. Anti-lock brakes Anti-lock brakes are a vital safety feature available in many cars today. They work to prevent your car from skidding or sliding when you brake. This helps you maintain control of your car in the event of a braking situation and keeps you safe. 4. Traction control Traction control helps keep your car under control in slippery or dangerous driving conditions by ensuring that the wheels have proper contact with the road. If the wheels start to slip, traction control will automatically engage to help keep you safe. 5. Vehicle stability control Stability control is similar to traction control but helps keep your car stable and under control in the event of a skid, turn, or extreme driving conditions. This safety feature enables you to maintain control of your car and avoid accidents. Personal Injury Lawyer Unfortunately, despite all the safety features a car has, accidents still happen. You could be the best driver in the state of Florida, but there is always the potential for an accident. That’s why it’s important to know what to do in the event of an accident. If you or your loved one gets injured in a collision, the first thing you should do is call a personal injury lawyer to help you through the process and get you the compensation you deserve. A car accident lawyer at Carl Reynolds Law can help you every step of the way and ensure that you get the best possible outcome for your case. Check out this blog to learn more about what a personal injury lawyer does! The Injuries Are Personal team at Carl Reynolds Law has over 50 years of combined experience handling car accident cases in Florida, so we know what it takes to win. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients, and we can do the same for you. Call us today at (888) 905-4453 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced car accident attorneys. You will never be just another case for us; you are a person who has experienced a traumatic event and we will treat you with the compassion and care that you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation!

The 8 Best Car Speakers for Music Lovers

If you think your life is tough now, take heart—you could have been born as a piece of automotive audio equipment. We expect the sound systems in our cars to last for decades, endure a combination of Death Valley heat and Alaskan cold, shrug off the occasional splash of water or soda, and still produce home-theater-quality sound while using much less power than you can get out of a wall plug. Oh, and it all needs to be affordable. No surprise that many cars come off the production line with audio systems that can’t match that near-impossible list of requirements. For much of the time, it’s sound quality that doesn’t cut. Going back 30 years ago, the fix was simplicity itself: remove the standard-sized head unit and replace it with something else. Things aren’t as easy nowadays. More often than not, the “head unit” is now part of a larger system that controls everything from navigation to air conditioning. Removing or replacing it can be cumbersome. This doesn’t mean you can’t improve your car’s sound, however. The best way to do it: a good set of aftermarket speakers. A little money and effort spent here can go a long way. Expect to hear more detail, experience a more defined sound stage, and endure less distortion at the extremes of volume. I’ve come up with some of the best ways to make that happen, whether your budget is modest or ambitious. Let’s rock. Best Car Speakers Most Affordable Rock Music Upgrade: Rockford Fosgate Punch 4-Pack Best Value for Small Cars: Pioneer TS-A1676R 6.5 Best Car Speakers for Demanding Ears: Focal ES 165 Best For Cars That Can Take an Aftermarket Amplifier: Kicker CS Series Best Quick Fix for Troubled Car Audio: Kenwood KFC-1666s What To Consider When Upgrading Your Car Speakers Size and Location When in doubt, just remove and measure your existing speakers, then get something the same size or similar. There's a lot of "slack" in many car speaker installs, and there's also a variety of “standard” sizes that should work in many cars. Don’t forget about speaker depth; that’s often the most important measurement of all. Most of these items are best installed by a competent local shop. Woofers and Tweeters While it’s true that you can get pretty good sound from single-cone speakers mounted around the car, upgrading to “component” speakers will make a drastic difference that you can easily hear. Different frequencies of sound are best reproduced by speakers that are optimized for those frequencies, so heavy bass is best in a large “woofer,” while piercing highs are reproduced most accurately by small dome “tweeters.” Want to up the ante a bit? Adding a subwoofer (or two) will reproduce the lowest bass from today’s hip-hop and R&B while also offering a subtle fill to classical (or classic rock) music. Mid-bass speakers add detail that woofers and subwoofers miss, while mid-range speakers provide additional clarity to vocals, guitars, and woodwinds. Adding all of these can take up extra space, so if you don’t have it to spare look for “co-axial” or “full-range” products that mount different-sized speakers on top of one another to fit into smaller enclosures. It’s not an ideal way to do it, but the results are still better than what you’d get from a single speaker. Source and Signal Make sure your speakers are powered by a conventional wire with positive and negative leads. In some cases, your car may use optical cable or a “common ground” wiring system; consult an expert if that’s the case. Some German and British luxury cars can use a converter box of sorts to facilitate the installation of traditional speakers. When in doubt, call a shop, or your dealership, and ask. Choosing Your Upgrade If you’re not able to swap out all your speakers at once, which ones should you choose? Go big first! In other words, replace the largest speakers in your car with the smaller ones. The larger ones are tasked with making most of the noise in your cockpit, so an improvement will be more audible than if you swap out the tweeters in your car’s A-pillar, for example. Assuming you’re also the driver, it’s also worth spending your money upfront first. In some cases, even the passengers in the rear will appreciate your doing so, as many systems have a heavy front bias regardless of what you do with the fader knob. How We Selected These Car Speakers As a lifetime audiophile and sound-system builder in both home and automotive, I’ve built, installed, and listened to dozens of high-end car stereo speaker systems over the past three decades. Having listened to and examined many of these systems, I’ve seen—and heard—first-hand what works and what doesn’t. I’ve used that experience to select and recommend the speakers below.