CrutchfieldReviews 1,614

Every step of the way, Crutchfield simply was the easiest place to search for info helpful in making my purchase decision, and for ordering. My new Yamaha receiver and a new CD player were delivered in just a couple days with no shipping charge. Within a few days I had a somewhat unique technical issue so I called Crutchfield support, which have me perfect step by step solution. I've purchased from these guys some years ago, and wanted to go with them again. I trust Crutchfield.

I always have liked shopping at Crutchfield for car audio. Navigating their website and finding equipment that works with my car has always been top notch. The tech support is fantastic. If I have an issue, I'm always greeted with a patient person who understands my problem and immediately is available to help me troubleshoot the issue. I've had a tech stay on the phone with me for almost an hour while talking me through a simple car stereo installation. Once, I accidentally punctured a hole in my new car speaker during installation, and Crutchfield sent me a replacement pair next day. This was several years ago, so I'm not going to say they would honor this careless mistake today. Needless their service is exceptional.

Now, the biggest contention with Crutchfield is that they are more expensive than several of their competitors. I could easily by the same car stereo for $50 less at Amazon. However, I won't get any technical support if I buy from Amazon. Also, most sales on car audio receivers are not honored by the stereo's OEM. I'd rather pay an extra $50 to get an added piece of insurance and support from Crutchfield than have to file a dispute through Amazon.

The Crutchfield website made it easy to compare and ultimately choose the head unit right for me, it also gave me the option to include the correct equipment needed for the install at a discounted price. I had a question about the stereo in my cart so I called the 1 800 number and was able to talk to a person in no time. Dwight was able to ask me a couple of questions and link into the page I was looking at on the website, not only did he answer all my questions but gave me a direct number to reach him if I had any more.
Instead of having my items shipped to my home I used my work address which must have raised a concern. I received a phone call and an email to verify my shipping option and received my entire order exactly when it was promised in a well packed box.
Thank you Crutchfield for having the tools and staff available to help me make my ride to work enjoyable again.

The main reason I purchased from Crutchfield was because I wanted to make sure I had the correct install and wiring kits for my vehicle. Unfortunately the installation kit was poor quality, missing screws, and the instructions were lacking.
The installation kit was missing four screws, causing me to have to scrounge around for screws to hold the radio to the install kit. Also the clips and screws provided in the kit to secure it to the dash were un-useable with very poor instructions on what to do with them. Had to improvise and drill/screw my own screws to mount.
Needed to use the car the next morning so no time to call customer service and wait for correct parts to be shipped.
The Pioneer MVH-S600BS - Seems way underpowered. Like less powerful than the factory radio. I would not recommend this unit to anyone. Apparently you have to spend more to get something that produces factory level audio quality.
Disappointing experience overall.

Second time we used Crutchfield.
Both times we had to search for non-Crutchfield YouTube videos on installation. It would have been tougher without doing that.
Window tinter, auto glass installer and DIY auto radio install YouTubes helped with disassembly of dashboards and door panels without damaging parts. Crutchfield has a few videos but they are incomplete and don't offer tips nor cautions.
Crutchfield included instructions were "remove from package, assemble, install."
So we had to call for assistance as well.
The Crutchfield phone assistance was helpful and friendly. A bit confusing, but we figured it out together. Have a computer with email handy when you call.

I usually order completely online because I very much dislike dealing with customer service, especially sales. But... I had some questions that needed detail I couldn't get from the website, even though theirs is fabulous. So I called. The rep I spoke with was Lee and he went through the entire order from top to bottom though I had everything picked out, just to make sure I had everything I needed. He offered a few additional connectors and even recommended against one upgrade I thought I needed because with a bit of work myself I could save a good bit. I couldn't be happier with the experience and just went ahead and placed the order over the phone which I haven't done in years. I haven't ordered from Crutchfield for almost 20 years just due to the nature of the vehicles I've purchased, but they were my one and only choice when I needed a new system this time.