Auto Sounds Car Stereo & Window Tinting

DISHONEST, INSINCERE & FRAUDS. DO NOT GO HERE!!!! Read my experience. I got a sound system installed. Let’s just say I did not pay little money for this to be done. Everything was great, until 2 years later, the sub was cutting out. I gave them a call and they said to bring it in, that everything was under warranty so it would be taken care of. I took in my car a total of 5 times, with them taking my whole work day to “work” on my car. (They would leave my car running, which I raised to their attention) At first, they switched out the sub and then eventually the amp. The fourth visit I went in with the intention of replacing my amp, as “that was the problem” but said I would need to pay $1700. (UM, WHY DID YOU SAY EVERYTHING WAS UNDER WARRANTY?) I left and said I would need to think about it. (I obviously wanted to get a second opinion.) Second option: Took a glance at their work and said, “Do not go back there. They did a really bad job and even left wires exposed, which could cause a fire, and by the looks of their work, may even be trying to play you. Get your amp back, as it may be working perfectly.” They contacted me several weeks later to take out their replacement amp, as another customer “needed” it. My boyfriend took it in, they immediately asked if I was going to buy the new amp, my boyfriend said, “not as this time”. The owner, (Paul) walked to the back and not even 2 mins later, he came back to the front and said, “I just spoke with the technician. She has a 5 channel amp, only one of the channels aren’t working, so if we only connect the 4, it won’t cut out anymore- just won’t be as loud. We can do this for $150”. My boyfriend called me and I told him, just do it, annoyed. But then immediately I called him back and said, no. Tell them to put it in as it was, because why didn’t they propose this in the first place? Instead of just the $1700 replacement amp. My boyfriend received my car, but they told him, “it’s still going to cut out”. He said that was fine and drove home. He mentioned to his dad what was going on. Apparently his dad used to install sound systems and asked him if he could take a look. (If only I had known) 1) One wire to my sub was disconnected. 🚩 2) My amp was OFF. 🚩 3) The sound level was turned all the way down on the amp. 🚩 His father so kindly adjusted everything accordingly, and my system has been working fine (no cutting out) for 3 weeks now. I’m furious and in disbelief that this so called family man would try to take advantage of me. He saw a young girl, with a nice car and was looking for easy money. Luckily, I didn’t fall for it.. now if you’ve read this and are still debating to go here. DO NOT. I WISH I HAD LISTENED TO THESE 1 STAR REVIEWS BEFORE GOING HERE. The “good” reviews are obviously NOT REAL.

This place is amazing! I took my LED lights here to be installed. Very fair pricing and compassionate service! If you need something looked at as far as interior technology is concerned, this is a great spot to have it checked out. Paul is so congenial, thorough and informative. Wasn't too busy on a Saturday, so I was able to have my lights ready for the rest of the weekend. Thank you!

This place is very easy to work with. They really have taken the time to get my difficult build all sorted out to meet the objectives I am trying to achieve (a huge stereo on a motorcycle that was never made to have a stereo). I'm very happy to have chosen these guys and would recommend them to anyone in need of car electronics or any of their other products.

Paul gave me a great deal on an AMAZING stereo in my truck, with great communication throughout the process! He has always been extremely flexible with my frequent needs, including meeting me before store hours so I could pick up my truck early. After he put a stereo in my first truck, I had him put another system in my next truck. I never felt haggled or as though I was being pressured into spending more. In addition to their customer service, their expertise was clearly evident and their work spoke for itself. Now I won't go anywhere else! Thank you!

Love this place!!! Paul the owner is very knowledgeable, friendly and makes sure you get what you are looking for. Service is top notch and he always looks at giving you the best deal. Doug does a great job with installs and all the work done on my car has been spot in. Highly recommended and always a pleasure to do business with.

Did an excellent job replacing a non-functional unit installed by an amateur. The jod was done cleanly and on time. I would recommend Auto Sounds Car Stereo without reservation.

The TL:DR - STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE. BY FAR THE WORST COMPANY I'VE EVER DONE BUSINESS WITH. Please do everything in your power to stay away from this shop. I've had 6 vehicles, all with remote start/alarm systems, all installed by different companies, and this company is BY FAR the worst I've ever dealt with. Dropped my truck off on a Wednesday morning with the plan of being able to pick it up later that evening. As it got closer to closing time, I had not been called so I called in just to be told that one of the parts didn't show up. That's fine it happens, but don't keep me in the dark when I'm expecting my truck back that day. I was advised that it should be there the next day and ready by 1. Oh and while it stayed overnight, it was not kept safe inside a garage, it was outside in their parking lot. Real nice. The next day rolls around, no call around 1 to let me know it's done. I don't want to rush so I sit back and wait until it's only an hour away from closing time and I decide to call. I was told that it was updating and should be done shortly so I head over. Luckily I get to pick it up. I was given a type of serial number to set up the ability to control my vehicle with my smart phone, but the number didn't work. I reached out to Paul who was very attentive at this point and was assisting by giving me the correct numbers. After the app showed all the numbers were valid, it still wouldn't work, at which point, Paul advised he'd call Viper the next morning. The next morning rolls around and I reach out to Paul to let him know that I'll be out and about for the day, but if he needs me to do anything or swing by, to let me know and I'd be there. NO RESPONSE I reached out again later in the afternoon as I was done with my plans for the day to let him know that I'm still available to swing by to get it resolved. NO RESPONSE. 2 days later he responds simply with "what's your email". While waiting for Paul to make things right, I had reached out to a REAL company and was able to get them to figure out what the issue was. The issue was AUTO SOUNDS IS NOT AN AUTHORIZED VIPER INSTALLER!!! They left me with a system that was not even put in Viper's system because they don't even have the ability unless they're Viper certified. The other company was able to get my account to at least work at this point because they were able to activate my account. The next issue that I faced (that I then advised Paul about) was, It would confirm that the command was sent to the vehicle, but it couldn't execute. I researched this myself and came across an article on Viper's website that says this can be caused by a loose or disconnected cable, a misadjusted hood pin, or multiple data cables connected to the remote starter. All things that Viper can't fix, and need to be done correctly by the installer. I shared the screenshot of my findings with Paul who responded saying "I'll research and call back". First of all, I did the research for you and told you what the issue is. Second of all, "I'll call back" was sent on 10/19/20 and it's now 10/29/20 and still have not received a call back EVEN AFTER I shared ANOTHER screenshot from Viper support on a ticket I created that confirmed that this is an issue with the installation itself and the shop needs to fix. I sent that text on the 21st and it was also IGNORED. Since they don't have the decency to respond back to me, and they seem to have ZERO interest in making what I paid for WORK, I decided to take it over to the same authorized shop that fixed the first issue to just get me up and running since they can do it and Auto Sounds can't. The first thing that they noticed was that Auto Sounds tapped into the wrong wires for the emergency/parking brakes, which someone else complained about as well. The next issue (not causing any issues but still ridiculous) was the install itself was very messy under the dash and the wrong tape was used. And the final issue that was the issue from the beginning was that Auto Sounds left me with a bad mobile/GPS module.

Went to have a steering wheel cover installed. Did a poor job at it. Not even done correctly and argued with me over whether or not it was done right. Don’t recommend having anything done here. Better off going somewhere even if it means paying more. Took way too long to get it done. Told me it would take around 2 hours got it almost 7 hours later

Literally zero stars. My daughter needed a CarPlay unit installed and they quoted $270 plus a $40 part. After several delays because they didn't complete the work as they said, they tried to charge over $900! They will not provide an itemized invoice.

Do not trust the good reviews for this company, they must be fake. These guys nearly destroyed my car. Literally caused damage that caused $3K to repair. I did not even bother asking them to fix it, they were so out of it. The main technician appears to be drunk or something. Both guys there are very smooth talkers on the phone so you do not suspect anything until the work is done. However when you get there, the shop is is total disarray, so that is the first clue.

Paul and Auto Sounds are the WORST! Don't ever get keyless door locks or entry from them - or anything! They tapped into my parking light lines , completely piggy backed me in worst way ever, over juiced my lines. Should have hooked up to my fuse box like a competent person. But no, totally screwed up my parking lights - which lead to melting to all my wiring! Just spent so much labor/time/$ to remedy all the damage auto sounds did . Easily could have caused a fire and killed me , no joke not ok ! Such a sloppy job that my doors lock up when the key is in the ignition and can't open anything, can't overwrite it because it's some unknown brand cheap $20 crap ! Show pics of it all The audacity !! Imagine if I was to get in a car accident, they would never be able to open the doors ! Flipping idiots. They put about a extra 5 feet of door cord in my dash that's everywhere . Years later and now had to undo all the mistakes and everything today ... spent so much money to correct hanus errors from sloppy lazy work provided by auto sounds which could have ultimately lead to my death To make matters worse, literally had "Paul" drive his mustang car up to me making threats while I'm at Superior Brake and alignment (quality place) as Im fixing all his errors. Calling me "queer" shouting ridiculous stuff from his car asking me to fight. Everyone at the body shop thought he was a joke ... 5 witness to him being irrational and a loon. So, NEVER GO HERE EVER unless you like having your stuff screwed up for a lifetime, melted wires that leads to electrical fires. Certainly run the risk of being called inflammatory remarks. Paul will give you garbage Chinese refurbished amps like "Memphis Audio" and not even hook it up right. Hell, didn't even give me the power adjuster on the amp because was used/second hand!

These guys are as as food as it gets for all things sound and tinting for your vehicles. Don't waste tour time shopping around, call Paul and get on with it - you'll get the best guidance, quality and service at an excellent value from a long-time local businessman who stands behind his products and services. Simply the best.

Installed a car stereo for me (that I had purchased on Amazon) within a couple of hours. The unit stopped working correctly after 2 months, and they were very helpful in troubleshooting the problem- which was an easy fix. Great local biz. Honest service.

The "TL:DR: (Too long, didn't read) is: STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE. BY FAR THE WORST COMPANY I'VE EVER DONE BUSINESS WITH. Please do everything in your power to stay away from this shop. I've had 6 vehicles, all with remote start/alarm systems, all installed by different companies, and this company is BY FAR the worst I've ever dealt with. Dropped my truck off on a Wednesday morning with the plan of being able to pick it up later that evening. As it got closer to closing time, I had not been called so I called in just to be told that one of the parts didn't show up. That's fine it happens, but don't keep me in the dark when I'm expecting my truck back that day. I was advised that it should be there the next day and ready by 1. Oh and while it stayed overnight, it was not kept safe inside a garage, it was outside in their parking lot. Real nice. The next day rolls around, no call around 1 to let me know it's done. I don't want to rush so I sit back and wait until it's only an hour away from closing time and I decide to call. I was told that it was updating and should be done shortly so I head over. Luckily I get to pick it up. I was given a type of serial number to set up the ability to control my vehicle with my smart phone, but the number didn't work. I reached out to Paul who was very attentive at this point and was assisting by giving me the correct numbers. After the app showed all the numbers were valid, it still wouldn't work, at which point, Paul advised he'd call Viper the next morning. The next morning rolls around and I reach out to Paul to let him know that I'll be out and about for the day, but if he needs me to do anything or swing by, to let me know and I'd be there. NO RESPONSE I reached out again later in the afternoon as I was done with my plans for the day to let him know that I'm still available to swing by to get it resolved. NO RESPONSE. 2 days later he responds simply with "what's your email". While waiting for Paul to make things right, I had reached out to a REAL company and was able to get them to figure out what the issue was. The issue was AUTO SOUNDS IS NOT AN AUTHORIZED VIPER INSTALLER!!! They left me with a system that was not even put in Viper's system because they don't even have the ability unless they're Viper certified. The other company was able to get my account to at least work at this point because they were able to activate my account. The next issue that I faced (that I then advised Paul about) was, It would confirm that the command was sent to the vehicle, but it couldn't execute. I researched this myself and came across an article on Viper's website that says this can be caused by a loose or disconnected cable, a misadjusted hood pin, or multiple data cables connected to the remote starter. All things that Viper can't fix, and need to be done correctly by the installer. I shared the screenshot of my findings with Paul who responded saying "I'll research and call back". First of all, I did the research for you and told you what the issue is. Second of all, "I'll call back" was sent on 10/19/20 and it's now 10/29/20 and still have not received a call back EVEN AFTER I shared ANOTHER screenshot from Viper support on a ticket I created that confirmed that this is an issue with the installation itself and the shop needs to fix. I sent that text on the 21st and it was also IGNORED. Since they don't have the decency to respond back to me, and they seem to have ZERO interest in making what I paid for WORK, I decided to take it over to the same authorized shop that fixed the first issue to just get me up and running since they can do it and Auto Sounds can't. The first thing that they noticed was that Auto Sounds tapped into the wrong wires for the emergency/parking brakes, which someone else complained about as well. The next issue (not causing any issues but still ridiculous) was the install itself was very messy under the dash and the wrong tape was used. And the final issue that was the issue from the beginning was that Auto Sounds left me with a bad mobile/GPS module. So the $1300 I paid Auto Sounds quickly turned into much more when you factor in the multiple uber rides, the gas to drive an hour away to a REAL shop, the time lost from work...etc. STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE!!!!

This is reputable business that stands behind its install warranty. Thanks, Paul and Team!

After I called, my friend realized this place was owned by Paul, who he has known for over 25 years and just realized he switched locations. Thankful for familiar, friendly and kind people. Had a horrible experience at Stereo Guys and they didn't sell me a part because it wasn't worth their time. Yet I stood in their office for a half and hour with nobody there or showing up just customers keys left unattended on the counter. Thank goodness for AutoSounds and my friend remembering him. This guy is so deeply embedded in Santa Barbara history and has lasted the test of time. Thank you Paul for your help and kindness. Thank you for showing me the halo units. Glad to know where you are! Thank you for your kindness.

They quoted me $1900 and when I came to pick it up they told me it would be $2900. Even for $900 above the estimate they still installed the roof top vent backwards and I had to take it back to be re-installed. At one point the owner left me a message "hey Eric give me a call", when I called I could hear people talking in the background and with a sardonic tone he said "I don't know why you called me I told you to come it". Other than that the work they did was ok but $1000 above the estimate is crazy. I just paid it because I didn't want to argue with the guy as from the way he talked to me on the phone I assumed it wouldn't accomplish much.

I had a stereo installed by Best Buy, (don't judge). My stereo died and after many failed attempts to have them fix the issues, I decided to bring my car to AutoSounds. I could not be happier. I highly recommend!!! They did a great job!!

Great experience here. Was told at another shop my speaker on a 2 year old car was blown. Brought it here and the box was broken so they fabricated a new one. Saved me from buying 2 new speakers. Definitely recommend this shop.

Thank you, Paul, for your generous support! I was traveling and needed help with my van stereo and Paul immediately took the time to help me. We discovered I just needed a new fuse, rather than a new stereo. A very honest business!! Highly recommend.

Thank you Paul and Ian for installing front and rear sensor bumper dots, they are a great safety feature and we saved a lot of $$$ installing these aftermarket rather than buying a new car the next trim level up that had these pre-installed. They did a great job and they work great. They also look like they were installed right at the dealership, good as new. Thank you.

Excellent job on a custom subwoofer box & tint I needed a dual subwoofer box built for the backseat of my car and Paul said that this would be completely doable and to come on down. He introduced me to his lead technician, Ian, who then leafed me through some pictures of all the great work he's done for his other more-demanding projects over the years and I was impressed. I took a chance and let him suggest some options and work his magic and was not disappointed! This thing sounds incredible for the subs I chose and they got the tint exactly how I wanted it. They both took their time answer my questions and offer advice which made me feel like a valued customer, and I got a great price. Thanks again!

Got some hints for my wife that she been wanting window tint on her car. Life got in the way and the day came and was in a pinch for a birthday present. Called Paul and asked if he had time to for a tint job. He said bring it on down. Was able to squeeze me in and had it done within the hr. Price was right and service was excellent.

Just picked up our van and we are so disappointed. We paid over $800 for tint on all our windows in our VW vanagon. Went to pick it up after hours and every window tint is just full of bubbles and not smooth at all. On top of this they had to remove a brake light that was installed on the rear window and did not reinstall it so it is now just hanging from it's wires. The curtains they had to remove to work on the rear are left disassembled in the back of my van, the screws and hardware just sitting there as well, along with one of the shops drills. We specifically asked for them to cover our beige cushion when working on the rear and seeing their tools etc just sitting there tells us they did not. We were unable to leave a message for them as they do not have a voicemail system, so I had to resort to writing a note and leaving it under the door. I'll be happy to revisit this review if they can make it right but so far we're feeling really ripped off.