[Arstechnica]

Just wanted to know if you guys rather install this stuff yourself or have the dealer do it? I know there is a possiblity that they could put someone on the job that has no friggin clue as to what they are doing, if that is the case, I can do it myself lol.

Just want to here your experience good or bad.

Thanks

 

[TartanJack]

If I CAN install myself, I will.

 

[Goldtouch]

The only things the dealer installed on mine are the upgrades that were on it when I test drove it. Everything else is and will be installed by me. :yes:

 

[Arstechnica]

The only things that I would consider allowing them to install would be the wheels/tires and the axis ground effect kit. I think the other stuff should be pretty easy.

 

[Geezer]

So far I've installed everything myself, primarily because I get a 20% discount on parts for the first year of ownership, but no discount in the service department. For the most part I'm also a do-it-yourself kind of guy...except when it comes to things like abdominal surgery. I could reach the affected area, but don't really want to take on the task.

 

[gr8scape]

I'd rather do the installs myself. Lets face it, the guys at the Dealers don't look like rocket scientists to me. If they can do it I can do it. Spoiler is next install I am going to do.

 

[TartanJack]

It gets down to the specific mod, your technical/mechanical ability/competence, tool supplies, and the complexity of the specific mod.
Face it, guys (and gals), the better dealerships spend a decent sum on training their mechanics and they know a HECK of a lot more about Toyotas/Scions than most of us do and also have been specifically trained for the vehicle and have the CORRECT tools for the job at hand.

Thus, it ALL depends on the mod, the tools required, and your competence and tools.  CAN you do it correctly and accurately?
If so, go ahead.
If not, have the dealer do it, esp. if it is a TRD part . . .
--Most won't do a non-Toyota/Scion aftermarket part, unless you are lucky enough to have a Sparks-esque dealer nearby . . .

 

[gr8scape]

I have to partially agree with Jack on this topic. When I wanted an overhead console. The dealer wanted close to 100.00 to do the install. I bought the item cheaper and installed it myself in about 20 minutes. The instructions were flawless and anyone could do this. As for the spoiler, I have the templates and instructions to drill the holes and I'm sure it will turn out fine. Next after the spoiler will be springs and rims. Again, both should not be a problem.
Now if I needed diagnostic help for a problem the dealer would be the first place I would go as I do not have the expertise to do that. However, If I know what the problem is I am sure I could handle the repair.

 

[Capt Richard]

My bank will only finance at invoice price. So any option added after the fact has to be paid by the buyer. I went cheap and only signed on for a few dealer installs. I ordered the rest of the parts and plan on doing them myself when I get off next week. I have done electronic installs for years and so I am very comfortable working on the electrical system. I have looked at the instructions online and was shocked to find that I have to dissasemble alot of the vehice to add lights and xm ext. I can handle it but I have to get all the parts in so I only have to pull up carpet and remove kick panels once. The instructions are very specific and you should follow them. Wires are padded and some areas are coated to seal them. It seems like extra work to bundel the wire as they say but its worth it if you have to trouble shoot it later. Even more so if the dealer has to work on it. I can see charges for fixing a previous install on the way to fixing another problem.

I worked for Radio Shack in the old days when salesman knew what a resister and thermister was. I used to fix radio and amp installs. I would start by cleaning up the wire and removing the extra 50 foot from the rats nest of cable. Not everyone is really able to do the job properly. Just by being here it shows that you are the other kind of person who is willing to do it right or seek out someone who will.

 

[Direness]

I agree with Jack that some things are just easier for a dealership to do because they have the right tools and training to do it, so sometimes it's better to take it to them. That way if they screw it up, it's on THEM to pay for it. I had my spoiler and cargo net installed by the dealership for that reason, and they did a pretty good job (although I think the spoiler could be a little tighter, but that may just be my picky streak peaking out..) But I know for some people, it's part of the fun of owning a car like this, and if they have the skills to rock it, rock it out!

I'm not a very handy person, and this being my first new car ever, I'm very nervous about breaking, scratching or not being able to put it BACK together. For the piece of mind, I'd rather have a dealer or well rated professional put in most items. There's a few things I've done myself like the exhaust tip and bumper protector, but neither of those include cutting, drilling or wiring. Next up is the chandelier, and hopefully that doesn't require any drilling. It's pretty heavy. THEN, the custom fabric panels myself. THEN painting a few interior pieces myself...

 

[TartanJack]

What I DON'T like doing myself . . .
-Cracking open the engine.
-Punching holes in the shell, esp. on the OUTSIDE!
-Cutting or spicing IMPORTANT wiring.