Westminster 2026 GMC Sierra Radar and Audio Upgrade

A local client recently contacted the Westminster Speed and Sound team to inquire about upgrades to his brand-new 2026 GMC Sierra. He wanted a radar detector and laser defense system to help prevent speeding tickets. He also mentioned that the factory-installed stereo sounded pretty anemic. After discussing options for a radar detector and ways to improve the stereo with the client, we provided three quotes with varying features and performance levels. Follow along as we explain the client’s choices.

GMC Sierra Radar Detector

The first order of business was to integrate an Uniden R9w radar detector and laser defense system into the truck. We started by designing mounting pods for the laser transponders to fit into the lower section of the front grille and underneath the rear bumper. The pods are covered in IR-transparent acrylic for a tidy appearance. In total, there are four laser transponders on the front of the vehicle and a pair on the rear.

A Uniden Laser Transponder in a custom pod in the grille of this GMC Sierra.

Another of the four Uniden laser transponders on the front of this GMC Sierra.

A pair of Uniden laser transponders on the back bumper.

Designing the radar transponder pod so it can be 3D-printed.

The pod needs to accept the Uniden Transponder and align it perfectly on the vehicle.

Next, we set to work creating custom-welded brackets for the radar receiver modules. The brackets allow precise antenna placement while allowing us to use factory fasteners to secure everything in place.

The steel mounting bracket ready for paint.

A close-up of the radar receiver, ready for installation.

The front radar receiver mounted in place.

Another view of the front radar receiver.

A third view of the radar receiver installed on a custom-welded bracket.

All the wiring for the transponders and antennas follows factory-installed wire harness paths to protect everything from heat and moving parts. We always label all the connectors in case the grille or bumper needs to be removed for service.

Inside the vehicle, we created a mounting panel from black acrylic to house the Uniden detector’s control panel and display. The panel is mounted just above the storage tray in the center console, so it’s easy to see and use.

A custom acrylic panel locates the radar control panel and display conveniently in the center console.

We added the Wavtech bass knob to the panel for easy access.

Custom Pickup Truck Subwoofer System

As mentioned, the client felt the factory-installed audio system lacked impact and warmth. Our solution was to add a custom subwoofer system. Our fabrication team created an enclosure that fits under the rear seat and serves as a home for a single Helix IKS 12S2 subwoofer. The enclosure has a large storage area on the driver’s side, and we added an embossed GMC logo wrapped in vinyl to the top panel for a little extra style. We finished the enclosure in grey carpet that matches the truck’s interior.

The subwoofer is powered by an impressively powerful and compact Wavtech Link1000.1mini amplifier. The amp is mounted to a piece of expanded PVC, which is secured to the truck’s back wall with factory fasteners. We ran Stinger 4-AWG power wire to the battery and constructed an acrylic mounting panel for the ANL fuse holder. The Artistry by WSS and GMC logo adds a touch of class under the hood.

We added a remote level control to the amp and mounted the knob in the middle of the radar detector panel in the center console.

Construction of the subwoofer enclosure.

Ample storage space is available on the driver’s side of the subwoofer enclosure.

An embossed vinyl-wrapped panel adds a little extra style.

The Wavtech amp mounted to the back wall of the GMC Sierra.

Audio System Calibration and Radar Detector Testing

With everything installed, it was time to test the radar detector and laser defense system. We have a pair of police radar and laser guns to ensure the system delivers long-range performance and reliability. Everything passed with flying colors.

We cued up some songs we knew well to ensure the subwoofer blended well with the rest of the sound system. With a few tweaks to the amp gain and crossover point, we had it sounding amazing.

Maryland’s Vehicle Enhancement Experts

After three days of work, we had this gorgeous GMC Sierra ready to go back to the client. He arrived at the shop, and a member of our team showed him how to use the Uniden system effectively and efficiently. Having the right hardware is only half the story – knowing how to use the system properly is imperative to avoiding a speeding ticket. Once the training session was complete, the owner listened to some of his favorite music and was amazed at how much better the audio system sounded.

If you are interested in a radar detector or audio system upgrade for your car, truck, or SUV, we invite you to visit the award-winning team here at Westminster Speed and Sound. We’d love to show you why we are the most awarded mobile enhancement retailer in the area. If you can’t get to our store during regular business hours, give us a call or fill out our contact form to start a conversation.

[131605] [131585]