For music in your car, the best audio system is the difference. A subwoofer is probably the ultimate upgrade for your sound, and it’s rich, bass-filled, and makes every drive feel like a concert in the car. You might be thinking about adding a subwoofer but don’t know where to begin, this is a step by step guide to getting started. You are an audiophile or just a fan of good sound, then this article is for you.
Why Add a Subwoofer to Your Car Audio System?
It’s not all about bass, or a subwoofer – the sound. The majority of pre-installed car speakers are just not very good at the low end. By installing a subwoofer
- Experience fuller, more dynamic audio.
- Decrease load on your main speakers, more clarity.
- Make it personalized as per your taste in music.
Let’s learn how to put a subwoofer in your car, step by step.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Gather the following items and supplies before beginning –
Tools
- Screwdriver set
- Wire strippers
- Crimping tool
- Power drill (optional)
- Multimeter (to test connections)
Materials
- Subwoofer
- Amplifier (if not built-in)
- Subwoofer enclosure (if required)
- Amplifier wiring kit (includes power cable, ground cable, RCA cables, and remote wire)
- Speaker wire
- Electrical tape or cable ties
Having everything on hand will save time and frustration during installation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Subwoofer
Step 1 – Plan Your Installation
Begin by choosing the location of your subwoofer. Common locations include –
- Container – Suitable for subwoofers larger than 6in and enclosures.
- Subwoofers under Seats – Ideal for small subwoofers.
- Back Cabin Area – Easy to access but can occupy space.
Think about how big your subwoofer will be and how much space you have in your car to determine where to put it.
Step 2 – Disconnect the Battery
- Safety first! Unplug the negative end of your car’s battery so there are no electrical shorts during installation.
Step 3 – Unplug Power Cable from the Battery
Find the firewall on the car and locate a hole for the power cable.
- Pass the power cable through the firewall and to the amplifier location.
- Install an in-line fuse holder near the battery terminal and connect the power cable.
- Pro Tip – Grommets to prevent cable from frayed corners in the firewall.
Step 4 – Plug in the Ground Cable
Go for a solid metal object next to your amplifier where you can ground it.
- Sand the top to remove paint and to get a good connection.
- Bolt or screw the ground cable in place.
Step 5 – Plug in RCA and Remote Wires
Connect RCA wires and remote turn-on wire from your head unit back to the amplifier.
- Run the RCA cables to the proper outputs on the head unit.
- Join the remote wire to the head unit’s remote turn-on lead.
Step 6 – Connect the Subwoofer to the Amplifier
- Run the speaker wire from the amp’s output jack to the subwoofer jack.
- Rearrange the positive (+) and negative () connections, so as not to get phase problems.
Step 7 – Screw the Subwoofer and Amplifier In
- Attach the subwoofer to its housing and put it in the selected spot.
- Put brackets or screws on the amplifier to keep it in place during a drive.
Step 8 – Reconnect the Battery and Run The Test
- Plug the negative end of your car battery in.
- Plug in your car’s audio system and blast some music.
- Adjust the gain and crossover of the amplifier for best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Without the Ground Connector – A bad ground can cause distortion or amp failure.
- Incorrect Wiring – Always double-check connections in case of harm to parts.
- Misunderstanding the Fuse – Make sure to always install the in-line fuse in order to safeguard your system against electrical malfunctions.
Enhancing Your Audio Setup
Add a subwoofer to the mix and you have a very good car audio system. Get the most out of other parts, such as the head unit, speakers, or noise filters. When used properly, you’ll get the balanced, full-on sound that you want.
Why Choose Mecarnic for Your Car Audio Needs?
At Mecarnic, we manufacture the best quality car accessories and car audio products. Whether you are looking for the best subwoofers, amplifiers or even complete install kits, we have it all. We manufacture high quality products with affordable prices.
Do you want to make a change in your car’s sound system?
Shop from the best collection of high-quality car accessories at Mecarnic and start upgrading today
