Car Audio Centre Reviews 

1,964
TrustScore 4 out of 5

4.0

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Review summary

Created with AI, based on recent reviews

Looking at 76 reviews, reviewers had a great experience with this company. Customers frequently praise the highly knowledgeable support staff, competitive market prices, and exceptionally quick delivery times that make purchasing car audio equipment entirely straightforward. Many buyers deeply appreciate the smooth online ordering process, professional installation advice, and the consistently reliable quality of the specialized items received. However, some reviewers were not happy with occasional shipping delays, poor courier handling, and missing items discovered inside their delivered packages. A few people also reported frustrating communication breakdowns regarding stock availability, alongside extremely slow response times when trying to resolve order problems.

What people talk about most

Product

Reviewers highlight ambiguous aspects of product quality, with some consumers praising great sound... See more

Delivery service

Clients share ambiguous opinions on delivery service, with many praising the fast delivery times, excellent... See more

Service

Consumers find service to be exceptionally positive, praising the prompt delivery times and great... See more

Order

Customers had ambiguous experiences with order, highlighting both very positive and frustrating interactions.... See more

Price

People report positive experiences with price, frequently highlighting affordable costs and the best deals... See more

Reviews shaping this summary

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

Initially when I had my first return due to a faulty unit it went swimmingly. When I returned my second damaged unit the circus arrived and e mail and phone calls galore before a single person took ow... See more

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

Excellent service from car audio centre. Order arrived promptly and communication was excellent. Only concern was how the courier delivered item and tossed it over my gate. Fortunately it was well p... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I hesitate when I saw the numbers of negative reviews on Trust pilot, but decided to give it a try because of a discount code. Anyway, long story short. Goods was ordered on Wednesday 7am in the mor... See more

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

Snooper SMH-580VW 8" brought this mid feb 26 by end of march i sent it back under warranty, disc failure,with a disc still inside, six weeks later after having to ask for an update they returned a... See more


Company details

  1. Car Stereo Shop
  2. Car accessories shop
  3. Hi-fi shop

Written by the company

Car Audio Centre is the UK's leading car stereo retailer with stores nationwide, stocking over 3000 product lines. Use our Car Stereo fitting accessories finder if you're looking to replace your factory fitted car stereo and don't know where to start. As authorised dealers for all of the car stereo systems, speakers and car equipment on the site, we offer a unique service online and at 5 local stores in the UK. Our friendly, expert advice means that customers come back to Car Audio Centre time and time again. Install a dash cam to benefit from lower car insurance. Dash cams, in car cameras and accident cameras are highly useful to legally support you in the case of defending liability in the event of an incident.


Contact info

4.0

Great

TrustScore 4 out of 5

2k reviews

5-star
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1-star

No recent history of asking for reviews

This company hasn't invited customers recently, so reviews may not be representative

Hasn’t replied to negative reviews

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4.0

All reviews

(1,964)

76 reviews in the last 12 months

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Companies on Trustpilot aren't allowed to offer incentives or pay to hide reviews. Reviews are the opinions of individual users and not of Trustpilot. Read more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great service very fast and good…

Great service very fast and good quality product.

6 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that you were pleased with our service and the quality of our product. Providing a fast and efficient experience for our customers is always our top priority.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Very reasonable price

Very reasonable price, and very fast delivery. Thankyou

31 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that you found our prices reasonable and that your order arrived quickly. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to serving you again in the future.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Not as good as they used to be.

I must commend the sellers for their service and price of this product although the seller is not responsible for the shortcomings of this item or its functionality.
I bought a pioneer Car stereo and unfortunately they don't care for attention to detail as manufacturers once did.
The plastic finish is poor, attracts dust and is easily marked by fingernail. The volume when adjusted gives off noise which is prominent especially through the sub output.
Not sure where to go with this now, the adjustments that are available when it comes to processing the sound exceeds facilities available with other manufacturers and this is the only reason I've decided to keep this product.

4 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your feedback. We really appreciate your kind words about our service and pricing, and we’re glad you recognise that product design and manufacturing are outside our control.

We understand that Pioneer’s newer models may not feel as premium as older versions, but it’s important to consider that technology and production costs have changed over time. The unit you purchased is significantly cheaper than models from years ago, so comparing it to an older unit that may have cost twice as much isn’t really a fair comparison.

While we always welcome honest product reviews, we kindly ask that star ratings reflect our service and buying experience, rather than the manufacturer’s design choices—especially when we’ve provided exactly what was ordered at a competitive price.

That said, if you need any advice on settings or adjustments to improve your sound experience, we’re happy to help! Please feel free to get in touch, and we’ll do our best to assist you.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Selling an item they dont have in stock or don't know when they will be.

Ordered an in phase 4000w wiring kit, took money and gave me a date it would be here. A week later still nothing sign of it so contacted them and asked for an update to be told they are out of stock and don't know when they will be getting them. But shows on there site 4 in stock. They then said they could change the kit to another one which they sent me a link to look at and it's was much cheaper and only 1800w I said. That's not going to power the amp and its not what i paid for the other kit what will happy do u get a refund the difference, they then said it should power it but to be sure we will give you the next kit up which us 2400w. I still wasn't completely happy over the matter how long would they have left it to contact me or just left it. They ignored my emails saying I wasn't happy with what has happened.

31/1/25 Thanks you for your reply its a shame it's taken a review before you answered me. Your site still still showing 4 in stock, also when you offered me a different kit was cheaper so asked what would happen with the price difference amd would a 1800w kit be ok as the other was 4000w, the only reply I got was it should be. Which was not the answer I was hoping for as I don't want to damage a new amp. Then was offered the next one up 2500w which still wasn't sure if this was ok still and £2 more which is the lease you can do after waiting a week and nothing until I contacted you asking where my order was. Even now I don't know if that's ok still to this point as I don't want to damage a new in phase amp.

29 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your feedback, and we’re sorry for any frustration caused by your order experience.

To clarify, at the time of your purchase, our system showed stock availability, but due to high demand, the In Phase 4000W wiring kit was unfortunately out of stock when we processed your order. We completely understand that this is frustrating, and we should have notified you sooner.

Rather than leaving you without a solution, we offered you an upgraded alternative—a higher-spec and more expensive Phoenix Gold Zero Gauge kit, which is actually an even better option for your setup. Our intention was to provide you with the best possible replacement at no extra cost to ensure your amp gets the power it needs.

We apologise if you felt ignored—we always aim to respond to all customer concerns as quickly as possible. If there’s anything we can do to resolve this further, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your satisfaction is important to us, and we appreciate your business.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Perfect

Great service must have been despatched instantly arrived so quickly.

20 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your kind words! We're so pleased to hear that you had a great experience and that your order arrived quickly. We always strive to provide the best service possible.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Not up to date

Not up to date, drove 9 miles and 3 speed limits were above on snooper than signed limit.
Says on your site free updates , not true £69 , doesn't say for how long, cost of update.
Shouldn't have bought. Only good point is large display showing accurate speed.

21 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your feedback. We understand your concerns regarding speed limit accuracy, and we'd like to clarify how updates work for your device.

The data that comes pre-installed on these units is several years old by the time it reaches you. Since the units are manufactured in China, then shipped (which can take up to 3 months), and stored in our warehouse before being sold, the mapping and speed limit information may no longer be up to date. This is why we strongly recommend updating your device as soon as you receive it to ensure you have the latest, most accurate data.

You can easily update your device for free via the Snooper Neo website. We have checked, and there is no charge for updates on your model. The £69 fee you mentioned is for Truckmate updates, which apply only to truck-specific navigation systems, not the unit you purchased.

We're pleased to hear you're happy with the large display and accurate speed tracking, and we’re confident that with the latest update, your experience will be even better. If you need any help with the update process, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to assist!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Product I wanted was in stock

Product I wanted was in stock, at the best price I could find anywhere. Delivery was rapid too (actually arrived a couple of days earlier than expected)

16 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

We’re thrilled to hear that you found the product in stock at the best price and that your delivery arrived even earlier than expected! 🚀

Providing great value and fast, reliable service is what we aim for, so it’s fantastic to know we hit the mark for you.

If you ever need anything else, we’re always here to help. Enjoy your purchase, and thanks for choosing us!

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

Ordered a sit of speakers and confirmed…

Ordered a sit of speakers and confirmed order . Got a phone number a week later to say they didn't have the ones I wanted . So they where going to send me a better spec .

3 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your review! We appreciate your patience and understanding. While we’re sorry we couldn’t fulfill your original order, we’re glad we could offer you an upgrade to a higher-spec set of speakers.

Our goal is always to provide the best possible service and ensure our customers are happy with their purchases. If you need any further assistance or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help!

Enjoy your new speakers, and thanks again for choosing us!

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Scam

The company said one set of the speakers is not on stock so we agreed to money refund.
One month later they still don't answer my phone calls and ignoring my emails.
No refund was made
Complete scammers - avoid
Thank You Ivonne for ignoring my emails

6 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

We sincerely apologise for any confusion and frustration caused. Upon reviewing your case, we found that the refund was not fully processed in our system due to an unintended oversight. However, we have now processed the refund, and you should see the amount reflected in your account shortly.

We never intended to ignore your calls or emails, and we regret any delay in our responses. Please be assured that we take customer satisfaction seriously and are committed to resolving any outstanding issues.

If you have any further concerns, please let us know, and we will be happy to assist.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

No update, no goods, no communication

Placed an order two weeks ago and got an order confirmation but then nothing. No shipping notification, no update to say it was waiting on stock / out of stock so I followed up with an email enquiry and still nothing.

21 December 2024
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your feedback, and we sincerely apologise for the oversight regarding your order during the busy Christmas and New Year period.

Unfortunately, your order was missed during this time, but we have since reviewed your case and sent you an email outlining the available options to resolve this matter promptly.

We deeply value your business and are committed to ensuring you have the best possible experience with us. If you haven’t yet seen our email, please do check your inbox, or feel free to contact our customer service team at [phone number] so we can assist you further.

Thank you for your understanding, and we hope to resolve this to your satisfaction shortly.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

All good.

My order was delayed, it happens no drama. When my order was dispatched it was with me in less than 24 hours.

Very good prices and discounts on the website.

Will use again in the future.

22 December 2024
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

We really appreciate your understanding and your positive feedback! While we regret the initial delay, we're glad to hear that your order arrived swiftly once dispatched.

It's great to know you found our prices and discounts worthwhile, and we look forward to serving you again in the future. If you ever need any assistance, feel free to reach out.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Very unhelpful customer service.

Very unhelpful customer service.
I made a order for a speed camera online and made a mistake with the postal address that it was meant to be sent. I informed them straight away and they told me they had sorted it. But my item never came.
I rang them and they told me it had gone to the wrong address.
They told me that i would need to sort it out myself. I had to call the people at the other address and pay for the delivery myself.
Shame on you car audio centre.
Very unproffesional.

3 January 2025
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your review and for taking the time to provide your feedback. We are sorry to hear about your dissatisfaction with your experience, and we want to take the opportunity to provide clarity on the situation based on the facts available to us.

Order Details and Delivery Process
Your order was placed on 28th December, and the delivery address provided during checkout was in Glasgow. The shipping method chosen was our free delivery option, which uses DPD as our courier partner. DPD is well-regarded for their delivery services, offering flexibility such as the ability to amend delivery details, change addresses, or reschedule via their app or website.

The goods were shipped on 29th December, and you were sent an email with tracking details to the Glasgow address provided. The delivery was successfully made on 30th December, as per the information entered during your order.

Customer Action and Return Request
On 30th December, after the delivery was completed, we received a return request via our website for the item as unwanted. This was processed in accordance with our return policy.

When you contacted us on 3rd January, you informed us that the item had not been delivered and requested our assistance. Upon investigating, we found that the order had been successfully delivered to the address you provided, and a return request had already been submitted by you on our website.

Our Commitment to Service
We understand how frustrating it can be when a delivery doesn’t meet your expectations, but we can only act on the information provided to us. In this case:

The delivery address was supplied by you during checkout.
DPD’s system allowed changes to be made before delivery, but none were made.
The item was successfully delivered to the address you specified.
A return request was already initiated by you prior to your call to us.
We are committed to resolving issues where we can, but we rely on accurate and honest communication from customers to do so effectively. Unfortunately, in this instance, the facts do not align with your claims.

What Could Have Helped
Had you informed us directly about leaving the item at the Glasgow address and requested assistance with the return, we would have been happy to help coordinate a solution. Instead, your claim that the address was entered incorrectly and that you did not arrange the return creates unnecessary confusion when the facts clearly show otherwise.

Moving Forward
We have accepted your return request, and once the item is received, we will process your refund promptly. We encourage open and honest communication with all our customers, and we hope that in the future, such issues can be resolved more collaboratively.

At Car Audio Centre, we value our customers and strive to provide excellent service. However, our ability to assist depends on clear and accurate information from the outset.

If there’s anything else we can assist you with, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Worst customer service I have ever received!

*Edit to address the company response below - This order was placed on 09/09/2014, and this review was published on Trust Pilot on 24/10/2014. I have recently moved to a new Trust Pilot account and removing the old account removed the associated reviews. I have simply copied and pasted the old review to the new account. Aside from the date mismatch, that I added a comment about, there are no other changes to what has been visible on Trust Pilot since 2014. I have not simply chosen to write a review 10 years later, and thought the comment I added covered that. Jumping straight on here to falsely claim this review is fake really only speaks to the level of customer service the original review was written about, and rather highlights why I wanted it to remain on Trust Pilot. I must say I am also not sure how it can be claimed that my order number is not genuine, while also saying it is from 2022, when it is neither of these things.*

Admittedly this is from 2014, but I have moved to a new account which removed the existing review. It seems the company hasn't improved, so I wanted this to remain on the site.

I bought from this company on the recommendation of a friend, who has now apologised for the recommendation and now recommends the same as me, do not touch this company with a barge pole! I bought an item from them as it was the cheapest I could the product and the recommendation made my decision. When I made the order, I went through the entire ordering process being quoted Free Delivery, until I hit submit, when a £7.50 "Scottish Highlands Surcharge" was added to the invoice, even though I do not live in the scottish highlands. I immediately phoned the company to querie this and was told it was right, even though I do not live there and they couldn't give me a list of postcodes which ARE highlands based. After failing to get a resolution from 3 phone calls to the company, I had to contact the delivery company directly to get the list of highlands postcodes, which confirmed I do not live there, I was eventually refunded this surcharge. I then received an email 1 minute before the sales department shut to say there was an issue with the order and I needed to phone them, I did so first thing next morning and was told "There was a problem, the item has a tatty box, but we resolved it", otherwise meaning they decided to send it anyway even though they hadn't spoken to me. The item I ordered was quoted as being new, however, when I received it, it was clear that it was not new. After phoning again I was told that it was Ex-Demo and hadn't been checked before it was sent. I was offered a newer product for £100 extra or a refund, I chose the refund. I was told I could have the old item picked up on a day of my choosing that week and the refund would be processed immediately. After a further 6 phone calls, a courier was finally sent to pick the item up and it was returned to the company on September 22nd. I phoned a number of times after this as I still had no money back in my account, I was told that it had arrived but hadn't been opened, and to try the next day as it should be updated on the system by then before "the team have a relaxed Friday". I phoned the next day and was told that the sales operative had "just watched his manager process the refund and it should be in my account within the next 2 days". This did not happen. After phoning more times I was eventually told that the system had been updated to reflect the refund, but "they mustn't have pressed the button to actually send the money". I finally received my refund on October 10th, after the item had been signed for by them on 22nd September. Deeply dissatisfied with this atrocious service and being lied to on so many separate occasions. I will never use this company again and urge others not to either!

21 November 2024
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

We asked the customer for the order number, the order number provided was from 2022 not 2014 like the customer claims, this review is not genuine, and neither is the order number. We stopped charging surcharges on highlands in about 2010 and have not since. What type of customer decides to write a review about a company 10 years later and shame on Trustpilot to accept this. Trustpilot are trying to sell us their review collection software, based on this we wont buy buying their service as we cannot get fake review removed.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

Ordered a brand new pioneer headunit

Ordered a brand new pioneer headunit
It arrived but bits missing and looks like it’s been out the box
Tried ringing them no answer
Contacted them on the website and by sales email and no response

I have bought from them before and never a issue but this time total waste of time
Sat waiting to find out what’s happening

2 November 2024
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

We want to clarify that we only sell brand-new products, and every item is dispatched in its original packaging directly from our stock.

You mentioned that the unit appeared to be used, but you also stated that you had already fitted it. Unfortunately, once a product has been installed, there is no way for us to determine its original condition upon arrival—as the very act of installation makes it a used item.

That said, we take customer concerns seriously, and we’d be happy to assist in resolving any missing parts or issues you may be experiencing. Please provide your order number and details of the missing items, and we’ll look into this for you as quickly as possible.

We appreciate your previous orders and value your business. Let’s get this sorted for you.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Ordered an item that showed in stock

Ordered an item that showed in stock , four days later (when it was supposed to be delivered) received an email just before lunchtime informing me that they do not have item , it was a head unit , that was getting fitted along with a big set up that was booked in else where for fitting coinciding with this delivery, now have to reorder else where,rebook fitting, and wait up to five days for refund. Total waste of time and effort, I know there are wars on in the world , but still seriously annoying

7 October 2024
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your feedback, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused. We understand how frustrating this must have been, especially with your fitting appointment already scheduled.

To clarify, your order was placed with free standard delivery, which doesn’t indicate urgency. For time-sensitive orders, we always recommend opting for next-day delivery. We were expecting the stereo from *
Kenwood, but unfortunately, it didn’t arrive as planned. As soon as we realised this, we notified you, and the order was cancelled at your request.

Please note, your refund has already been processed. If you need any further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. We appreciate your understanding and hope to serve you better in the future.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Very rude

Fitting kit sent to me wasn't the correct one for my vehicle. I phoned up customer services and the guy was incredibly rude and demeaning. I mentioned the way he was talking to me was not appropriate considering that I'm a paying customer and he continued to be argumentative and confrontational. I'll take my money elsewhere
*Update after receiving reply*
I answered all questions. The picture you were asking me to look at to compare was small and low resolution, as well as only showing one dimension of the connector, making it difficult to see if it was what I needed. I explained that to you, and your reply was "I can see it just fine so I don't know what your problem is!" You were rude on several occasions despite me telling you that I didn't feel you were talking to me appropriately and if that is what you think satisfactory customer service is then maybe you need some further training. The solution is simple, please process my return request sent hours ago, I've bought the correct product from a more reputable retailer and will not be shopping with you again!

17 September 2024
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

Thank you for your review. We are sorry to hear that you feel the experience was not up to standard. However, in this instance, we were unable to assist you properly because key questions were left unanswered. Without the necessary information, such as comparing the picture of the fitting kit to the car plug, it is impossible for us to provide the correct advice.

We understand that you mentioned you were unable to see the plug, but without this essential detail, we were unable to proceed in helping you find the right solution. We strive to provide excellent customer service, and it is unfortunate that communication difficulties led to frustration.

If you would like to revisit the matter and work together towards a solution, we would be happy to assist further.

Rated 2 out of 5 stars

blew out footwell module

don't get me wrong installation was okay, what im more upset about was after installation the technicians was only interested and taking payment without even confirming the system work or demonstrating anything. well I figured why, they bllew out my car footwell module, no way of closing down my windows or use of any hazard or turn signals. what's worst on rainy day at that. no sure if they have a liability clause or terms on damaging vehicles on installation but knowing they didn't tell me only found out pulling out the drive that windows don't works. disappointed in that. but otherwise all is well... for now

23 August 2024
Unprompted review
Rated 3 out of 5 stars

Sub standard customer focus

I'm usually providing glowing feedback where suppliers have gone above and beyond, but I don't seem to understand how you can be ignored in the showroom on multiple occasions, with absolutely no acknowledgement of any existence.

I just don't get it...

In my case I wasn't browsing but intending to part with my hard earned wonga.

I can assume you make way too much money and can be selective with your clientèle.

Your loss I'm afraid, I'll let another supplier help me with my audio upgrade, accompanied with up to £1,500.00 worth of gear.

19 July 2024
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

I am truly sorry to hear about your recent experience in our showroom. This is certainly not the level of service we aim to provide, and I apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused you.

We value each and every customer, and your feedback is important to us. To ensure we address your concerns promptly and personally, please call in and make an appointment with us. We would love the opportunity to make this right and assist you with your audio upgrade.

Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Sub amp order great service

I found these trustpilot reviews after ordering
Items slightly worrying 😅
Ordered
Kicker key 500.1 plus remote and Pin
And separately about 30mins later
Pioneer TS-A2500LB Sealed for my Q7 to replace Bose sub.

They both came with warning ⚠️ they were ordering from supplier so could take 10 days

3 days later package arrived and contained both orders so looks like the luck of the draw, more people come to complain to these sites so thought I'd report back on this one and reduce some anxiety over this place.

22 May 2024
Unprompted review
Car Audio Centre logo

Reply from Car Audio Centre

We really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience!

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Do not buy from here

Ordered item
Told out of stock
Once payment made
3-5 days I was told
14 days later still no item
Rang up for update
Load of waffle
Cancelled order
Shower of clowns

3 May 2024
Unprompted review

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