Most vehicles have either a double DIN or single DIN opening where the in-dash receiver is installed. Double DIN is a four-inch dash opening while single DIN is a two-inch opening. Both openings are seven inches wide. Custom-fit options are also available for certain vehicles. (DIN is short for “Deutsches Institut für Normung”, a German group that sets international car radio standards.)

In-dash receivers are components that insert into the dashboard and have a unified hardware interface for the vehicle’s audio and/or video controls. Depending on the system, an in-dash receiver might have AM/FM radio, satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless, a CD player, a DVD player, GPS navigation and other features.

Yes. An in-dash receiver improves the driving experience by making it easier and more enjoyable to control your onboard entertainment. Aftermarket receivers will also improve the sound quality by producing a clearer signal.

Some of the useful features to look at include screen size and resolution, smartphone integration and real-time traffic data. You’ll also want to make sure the receiver can play music from your primary media sources (CDs, Bluetooth media players, internet streaming, etc.)

Head unit is a catch-all term that refers to any in-dash stereo control unit. A stereo receiver — often shorten to just “stereo” or “receiver” — is a control unit that also has a built-in amplifier.