When i say authorized dealers, i mean the smaller stores, none of the Circuit City or Best Buys. Anyways, i know that installs will vary from store to store, but do they need to pass any types of certifications to become authorized dealers? I'd be a tad freaked if all they had to do was carry specific merch and they'd become authorized install/dealer.

 

I had my alarm installed at Circuit City by a guy who happens to be a "Civic Fan." He did great work, and even did some custom stuff for free cause he felt it was right - instead of charging me.

GF got her Civic done at a different CC store. The wiring and placement of things was so bad, like they didn't even give it an effort or think about things.

My stereo was done at a smaller local shop by guys that look like they rip off cars on the weekend. They are "authorized" on several brands. Seems like everything they sell. I'm sure they have no "certification" or training. I see nothing displayed on the walls, like Best Buy. They did a good job.

This does not answer your question exactly, but you already know. Skills and quality of work depends on the guy who works on it.

 

After seeing some of the installs done by CC and BB, I'm convinced they hire just about anyone who claims to have experience with car audio ("Yeah, I hooked up my own speakers yo.")

Your best bet if it's a smaller shop and you're not sure about the skill of the installers, buy the product from them but take it somewhere reputable (or to a friend you trust) to get it installed.

 

Usually to qualify as an authorized dealer, they just have to be buying from an authorized distributor, or the manufaturer directly.

One distinct advantage to this is when the manufactuer holds traning seminars, the dealers get invited, so they have access to training.

some have tests, and give out prizes and certificates, or plaques (sp?) to show that the store/ or employee of a store is up to date and current on the product they carry.


It wouldn't make much sense if they had to be certified, and it was strickly enforced.
i.e. if a shop only had one guy who was factory ceritified, what happens if he quits, now that shop can't sell a certain product? I dont think so.


Being 'authorized' means they have access to proper information, and for you it means the manufactures warrenty can/ will be honored at that location.

 

Installation quality can very greatly from store to store. Whether it big a big chain store or an independent store. Certifications are good, but do not replace hands on experience. Unfortunately, installation consistency can be different even at the same shop depending on who does the alarm. My suggestion is to try to ask as many questions as possible about the install. Including placement of parts like siren, brain, sensors etc. Somebodys elses experience is probably the best recomendation. One way I judge a alarm installation is to see if the LED is centered correctly. If not that shows to me that they aren't very detail oriented and it probably carries down to the rest of the alarm.