How to Install A Car Subwoofer by Yourself: Step By Step Guide
When you think of getting an enhanced sound system in the car, you have to get the ultimate subwoofer that will boost the sound system. Once you got the ideal subwoofer for your car, you don’t need to hire an expert to install it. This is because the process of installing the subwoofer in the automotive is relatively simple and fast. By following these simple steps, you will be able to get that sub in without shelling out for labor. Read on to learn how to install a car subwoofer at home, on your own.
Table of Contents
What You Need To Install A Car Subwoofer
Your equipment and parts will vary based on your car and setup, but here are some of the key things you will have to put together.
- Speaker wires for the subwoofer
- Amplifier wires (remote wire, fuse holder, etc.) T
- Quality electrical tape
- Cordless speed drill of different sizes
- Hand tools like screwdrivers
- Wire metal coat hanger – this is for pulling the wire and bending it straight
- Speaker wires
Other than the above things, you also have to get different electrical connections. For example, you will require a +12V battery connection that has a fuse and audio signal source. This is meant to provide the signal to boost the amplifier. Lastly, you also have to get the ultimate solid connection for the metal car body.
Preparation For Installation Of Subwoofer
Unpack your new sub, review the installation manual, and get your tools set up. Don’t rush this step!
Construction
After getting everything in place, you can begin by creating the space to install the subwoofer. First, measure the face of the box. When doing this, leave some space below and above the outer dimensions of the speaker. Next, cut the other three sides of the box. Using the speaker as the template, create an opening to place the subwoofer. Remember to mark all the drill holes for the screws you will use in tightening the subwoofer.
Install The Amp
After the construction, you can mount the amp. In order to easily orient every component, determine where the bottom of the amp sits. This should come after installing the spiked feet. It is always simpler to find the bottom because it features holes for spikes. If holes aren’t available, check for your manual to determine what the bottom is.
The installation of the subs of the amplifier modules comes first. This is where you have the amp, all three inputs, the phase switch, the parametric equalizer, plus the low pass crossover. In addition to this, you also have to check for the LED power light, which is located next to the low-bass filter. When installing, you don’t have to caulk since the gasket rubber has surrounded the underside of the amp module. You will then need to screw down the amp after the module is situated correctly. For this, we recommend the star screw for tightening. Tighten properly to achieve an airtight seal. You also should connect the remote wire at the stereo to the remote lead. Alternatively, it can be connected to the +12V accessory wire.
Assemble The Subwoofer
Once the amp is in place, you should now assemble the subwoofer. It should be securely mounted using the screws provided in the box. This will make it tight to avoid unnecessary noise as you drive. Additionally, you also have to attach the grill that will aid in protecting the cone. Once this is done, connect it to the amplifier. In order to get more power, you should wire the amplifier in the bridge mode. This will definitely boost the power and sound system.
Connect To Signal Source
Are you using the factory stereo or an aftermarket stereo? Depending on the type of stereo you are using, you have to connect the wires correctly to get a better sound. When using the factory stereo system, it is vital that you tap off the rear speaker wires. This is where the use of the speaker adapter level or speaker inputs to the amp is found. On the other hand, when using the aftermarket stereo, you should connect it to the subwoofer RCA jacks or the rear. This will provide you with a better sound once you complete the process of installation.
Adjust The Crossover And Gain
At this point, you are almost done. All you have is to set the crossover and the gain. This is done by playing the stereo at a medium volume. At moderate volume, you should adjust the low pass crossover until you can only feel the bass. Once again, turn the amp to start from zero. Continue adjusting this until you get a sufficient bass that will suit you.
Also Read: Best 8-inch subs For Deeper, Cleaner and More Pronounced Bass
These are the simple steps to install the subwoofer in your car successfully. The process should take about 30-45 minutes, and you will enjoy the amazing sound system without spending some cash. Good luck!
