Upgrading your car’s audio system can greatly enhance your driving experience, and adding a subwoofer is one of the best ways to achieve a truly immersive sound. While it may seem like a daunting task, installing subs in your car is actually quite straightforward if you have the right tools and knowledge. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire process step-by-step, from choosing the right subs to wiring and installing them in your vehicle. By following our instructions carefully, you can enjoy the powerful bass and rich sound that a subwoofer system brings without breaking the bank.
Before you begin, it’s important to do your research and choose the right subs for your car. Consider the size of your vehicle, the type of music you listen to, and your budget. Once you have selected your subs, you will need to gather the necessary tools and materials. This includes a subwoofer enclosure, amplifier, wiring kit, and tools such as a screwdriver, wrench, and wire strippers. With everything in place, you can proceed to the installation process.
The first step is to mount the subwoofer enclosure in your car. Choose a location that is both secure and out of the way, such as the trunk or under a seat. Once the enclosure is mounted, you can connect the subwoofer to the amplifier. Make sure to use the correct gauge wire and connectors for the best sound quality. Finally, connect the amplifier to your car’s electrical system and turn on the stereo. Adjust the settings on the amplifier to your liking, and enjoy the enhanced sound of your car’s audio system.
Selecting the Right Subwoofers
When choosing subwoofers, there are several crucial factors to consider to ensure optimal performance and integration with your car’s audio system.
Size and Placement:
- Size: Determine the appropriate size of subwoofers based on your vehicle’s available space and the desired output level. Common sizes range from 8 to 15 inches, with larger units producing more bass output but requiring more space.
- Placement: Consider the optimal placement of subwoofers within the vehicle to achieve the best sound dispersion. Typical locations include the trunk, under the front seats, or in custom-built enclosures.
Power Handling:
- RMS Power: Choose subwoofers that can handle the power output of your amplifier efficiently. RMS (Root Mean Square) power indicates the continuous power that the subwoofer can handle without distortion.
- Peak Power: Peak power represents the maximum amount of power that the subwoofer can handle for short periods. It is important to ensure that the peak power of the subwoofer exceeds the peak output of the amplifier.
Sound Quality:
- Frequency Response: The frequency response of a subwoofer determines the range of bass frequencies it can reproduce. Look for subwoofers with a frequency response that aligns with the desired bass response for your musical preferences.
- Sensitivity: The sensitivity of a subwoofer indicates how efficiently it converts electrical power into sound. Higher sensitivity subwoofers require less power to produce the same output level.
Enclosure Type:
- Sealed Enclosure: These enclosures provide a tighter, more controlled bass response but offer less output compared to other types.
- Ported Enclosure: Ported enclosures incorporate a vent or port to extend the bass response and increase output but may produce less accurate bass.
- Bandpass Enclosure: A hybrid of sealed and ported enclosures, bandpass enclosures offer a combination of extended bass response and controlled output.
The table below summarizes the key characteristics to consider when selecting subwoofers:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Determines space requirements and output level |
| Placement | Optimizes sound dispersion within the vehicle |
| Power Handling | Ensures subwoofers can handle amplifier output |
| Sound Quality | Affects bass response and accuracy |
| Enclosure Type | Influences bass performance and output |
Preparing the Installation Site
Assess the Location
Determine the appropriate location for the subwoofer enclosure, considering the vehicle’s interior dimensions, seat configurations, and existing audio equipment. Ensure ample space for the enclosure, amplifier, and wiring.
Secure Mounting Points
Identify sturdy mounting points within the vehicle’s chassis or interior panels. Use heavy-duty bolts, screws, or brackets to firmly secure the enclosure in place. Adequate mounting will prevent resonance and ensure a stable installation.
Isolate the Enclosure
Consider using sound-damping materials between the enclosure and the mounting points. These materials, such as foam strips or rubber pads, help absorb vibrations and minimize exterior noise transfer. By isolating the enclosure, you enhance the sound quality and prevent unwanted resonance.
Prepare the Electrical System
Determine the electrical requirements of the subwoofer and amplifier. Ensure the vehicle’s electrical system can provide sufficient power. Upgrade the battery or alternator if necessary to handle the increased current draw.
Install the Wiring
Run the necessary power and signal cables from the amplifier to the subwoofer. Use high-quality cables to ensure optimal signal transmission and minimize power loss. Secure the cables securely along the installation route to prevent rattling or interference.
Test the Installation
Once the installation is complete, thoroughly test the subwoofer system. Play various audio sources to verify proper functionality, sound quality, and volume levels. Adjust the gain and equalization settings as needed to optimize the performance and integrate seamlessly with the existing audio system.
| Mounting Locations | Preferred Locations |
|---|---|
| Behind the Seat | Provides good sound distribution but may limit legroom. |
| In the Trunk | Offers ample space and minimizes interior clutter but may compromise sound quality. |
| Under the Seat | Compact and discreet but may result in reduced bass output. |
| In the Spare Tire Area | Utilizes unused space but may require custom mounting solutions. |
Running the Power Cable
Routing the Cable
Plan the path the power cable will take from the battery to the amplifier location. Choose a route that minimizes the risk of the cable being pinched or damaged. Avoid running the cable near sharp edges or hot engine components.
Protecting the Cable
Secure the power cable along the route using cable ties or wire loom. This will prevent the cable from moving around and becoming damaged. Make sure the cable is not stretched or kinked, as this can weaken the connection.
Connecting to the Battery
Connect the positive terminal of the power cable to the positive terminal of the battery using the provided terminal connectors. Tighten the connectors securely using a wrench. Connect the negative terminal of the power cable to a good grounding point on the car’s chassis. This will provide a safe and reliable return path for the electrical current.
| Cable | Connection |
|---|---|
| Positive | Battery positive terminal |
| Negative | Chassis ground point |
Grounding the Subwoofers
Proper grounding is crucial for ensuring optimal sound quality and preventing electrical issues. Here are the detailed steps on how to ground your subwoofers:
1. Choose a Suitable Grounding Point
Select a bare metal surface within 3 feet of the amplifier. Avoid using painted or rusty surfaces, as these can compromise grounding effectiveness.
2. Prepare the Grounding Surface
Clean the grounding point with sandpaper or a wire brush to remove any paint or corrosion. This will create a good electrical connection.
3. Attach the Ground Wire
Using a high-quality, 8-gauge or thicker ground wire, connect one end to the negative terminal of the amplifier and the other end to the grounding point.
4. Secure the Ground Wire
Tighten the ground wire securely using a nut and bolt. Ensure the connection is solid and the wire is not loose.
Grounding Wire Options:
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Copper | Excellent conductivity, durable | Can corrode over time |
| Tinned Copper | Corrosion-resistant, easy to solder | Slightly higher cost |
| Nickel-Plated Copper | Corrosion-resistant, minimizes noise | Most expensive option |
5. Test the Grounding Connection
Use a multimeter to check the resistance between the negative terminal of the amplifier and the grounding point. It should be less than 0.5 ohms for a good connection.
Connecting the Signal Wires
Now that you have your speaker wires connected, it’s time to connect the signal wires. These wires will carry the audio signal from your head unit to your subwoofer amplifier. The signal wires are typically RCA cables, which have a red cable for the right channel and a white cable for the left channel.
Additionally, some amplifiers may have a blue remote turn-on wire, which is used to turn on the amplifier when the head unit is turned on. To connect the signal wires:
1. Locate the RCA inputs on your subwoofer amplifier.
2. Connect the red RCA cable to the right channel input on your amplifier.
3. Connect the white RCA cable to the left channel input on your amplifier.
4. If your amplifier has a blue remote turn-on wire, connect it to the remote turn-on wire on your head unit.
5. Connect the other end of the RCA cables to the RCA outputs on your head unit. The RCA outputs are typically located on the back of the head unit. Use the following table to match the color of the RCA cables to the corresponding output on the head unit:
| RCA Cable Color | Head Unit Output |
|—|—|
| Red | Right Front Output |
| White | Left Front Output |
| Blue (Optional) | Remote Turn-On Output |
Setting the Crossover Point
The crossover point is where the frequencies from the subs and the main speakers meet. It’s important to set this correctly to avoid having a muddy or boomy sound. Here are a few tips:
This is a good starting point for most systems. If you find the sound is too boomy, you can try lowering the crossover point. If it’s too thin, you can try raising it.
This is the most important step. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings until you find one that you like.
A test tone is a single frequency that you can use to check the sound of your system. To use a test tone, play it through your system and adjust the crossover point until the sound is even and consistent.
Larger subs can handle lower frequencies, so you may want to set the crossover point lower. If you listen to music with a lot of bass, you may also want to set the crossover point lower.
| Subwoofer Size | Crossover Point |
|---|---|
| 6.5-8 inches | 80-100Hz |
| 10 inches | 60-80Hz |
| 12 inches | 40-60Hz |
| 15 inches | 20-40Hz |
Adjusting the Gain
Gain refers to the level of amplification applied to the subwoofer’s signal. Proper gain adjustment ensures a balanced audio experience without distortion or clipping. Here’s a detailed guide to adjusting the gain:
Step 1: Set Volume to Minimum
Start by turning the car stereo’s volume to its minimum level.
Step 2: Play Test Tone
Insert a test tone CD or file into the stereo. A 50Hz or 60Hz test tone is recommended.
Step 3: Adjust Input Gain
Locate the amplifier’s input gain knob. With the test tone playing, gradually increase the gain until you hear a slight distortion in the subwoofer.
Step 4: Reduce Gain Slightly
Immediately back off the gain knob slightly (about 1-2 clicks) to eliminate distortion. This ensures the subwoofer is operating at its optimal level without clipping.
Step 5: Listen for Balanced Sound
Carefully listen to the overall audio balance. Adjust the gain as needed until the subwoofer blends seamlessly with the rest of the system.
Step 6: Check for Distortion
Gradually increase the volume to a moderate level and listen for any distortion or clipping. Adjust the gain if necessary.
Step 7: Advanced Techniques
For finer control, consider using an oscilloscope to measure the subwoofer’s output. This allows precise adjustment to eliminate distortion and maximize performance. Additionally, some amplifiers offer advanced features such as adjustable low-pass filters, which can further optimize subwoofer integration with the system.
| Gain Setting | Subwoofer Response |
|---|---|
| Too High | Distortion, clipping |
| Too Low | Weak output, lack of presence |
| Optimal | Balanced sound, no distortion, seamless integration |
Fine-tuning the System
Once your subwoofers are installed, it’s time to fine-tune the system to achieve optimal sound quality. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Adjust the crossover frequency: Determine the frequency range that your subwoofers will reproduce, typically between 50 and 200 Hz. Set the crossover frequency accordingly to ensure smooth integration with your main speakers.
- Set the gain: Adjust the gain level of the subwoofer amplifier to match the output level of your main speakers. Start at a low setting and gradually increase the gain until the subwoofers blend seamlessly with the rest of the system.
- Polarity: Verify that the polarity of the subwoofers is correct, with positive terminals connected to positive terminals and negative terminals to negative terminals. Improper polarity can result in weakened or canceled out bass response.
- Use an equalization (EQ): Fine-tune the sound response of the subwoofers using an EQ. Adjust the levels of specific frequency bands to compensate for any peaks or dips in the bass response.
- Use a sound meter: Measure the sound level output of the subwoofers at your listening position to ensure that they are not overpowering or underperforming.
- Check for rattles and vibrations: Ensure that there are no loose parts or vibrations that could interfere with the sound quality.
- Experiment with placement: Try different placement locations within the vehicle to find the optimal position for bass response and sound distribution.
- Break in the subs: Allow the subwoofers to break in for a period of time by playing them at moderate volume levels. This helps the suspensions to loosen up and improve the overall sound quality.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: No audio from subs
Verify that the sub amp is powered on and the subwoofer cables are securely connected to the amp and sub. Check the fuse on both the amp and subwoofer to ensure they’re not blown.
Problem: Subwoofer is rattling
Tighten any loose screws or bolts on the subwoofer enclosure. Ensure the subwoofer is properly mounted and secured to prevent vibration.
Problem: Subwoofer volume is too low
Adjust the gain control on the subwoofer amplifier. Increase the volume until it reaches an optimal level while ensuring no distortion occurs.
Problem: Subwoofer blows
Check if the subwoofer is overpowered. Ensure the amplifier is not providing too much power to the sub than it can handle. Faulty wiring could also cause damage. Inspect and replace any damaged wires.
Problem: Subwoofer makes popping noises
This usually indicates a loose electrical connection. Ensure all terminals on the amp and sub are securely tightened. Check the remote wire and ground cable for any breaks or improper connections.
Problem: Subwoofer produces ground loop noise
Install a ground loop isolator to eliminate any electrical interference from the vehicle’s electrical system.
Problem: Subwoofer turns off or goes into protect mode
This could be due to overheating. Ensure the subwoofer enclosure has adequate ventilation or use an amp with thermal protection. It could also be a sign of a short circuit. Disconnect the sub and inspect for any damaged wiring or exposed wires.
Problem: Subwoofer distortion or clipping
Lower the gain on the subwoofer amplifier to reduce the amount of signal being sent to the sub. Ensure the sub is not overpowered by the amplifier.
Problem: Bass is too muddy or boomy
Try adjusting the crossover frequency on the subwoofer amplifier. Set it to a higher frequency to reduce the amount of overlap with the main speakers.
Tips for Optimal Subwoofer Performance
1. Choose the Right Subwoofer for Your Car
Consider the size of your car, the type of music you listen to, and your budget when selecting a subwoofer. A larger subwoofer will produce more bass, but it will also take up more space. A higher-quality subwoofer will produce cleaner and more accurate bass, but it will cost more.
2. Install the Subwoofer in the Right Location
The best place to install a subwoofer is in the trunk of your car. This will provide the subwoofer with the most space to produce bass. If you don’t have a trunk, you can install the subwoofer in the back seat or under the front seat.
3. Use the Right Enclosure
The enclosure that you use for your subwoofer will affect the sound quality. A sealed enclosure will produce a tighter and more accurate bass response, while a ported enclosure will produce a louder and more boomy bass response.
4. Power the Subwoofer with the Right Amplifier
The amplifier that you use to power your subwoofer will determine how loud and how powerful it will be. A higher-powered amplifier will produce louder bass, but it will also draw more power from your car’s electrical system.
5. Set the Gain Correctly
The gain setting on your amplifier will control how loud the subwoofer is. You want to set the gain so that the subwoofer is playing at a level that is loud enough for you to hear, but not so loud that it distorts.
6. Break In the Subwoofer
Subwoofers need to be broken in before they will perform at their best. You can break in a subwoofer by playing it at a low volume for several hours.
7. Adjust the Crossover Frequency
The crossover frequency is the frequency at which the subwoofer starts playing. You want to set the crossover frequency so that the subwoofer is playing the bass frequencies that your other speakers cannot reproduce.
8. Check the Polarity
The polarity of your subwoofer must be correct in order for it to play in phase with your other speakers. If the polarity is incorrect, the bass will sound muddy and indistinct.
9. Sound Dampen the Trunk
Sound damping the trunk of your car will help to reduce road noise and other unwanted noises that can interfere with the sound quality of your subwoofer.
10. Adjust the EQ Settings
The EQ settings on your car’s stereo can be used to adjust the sound of your subwoofer. You can use the EQ settings to boost or cut the bass frequencies, as well as to adjust the overall sound of your system.
Here is a table with some recommended EQ settings for different types of music:
| Genre | Bass | Midrange | Treble |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip-hop | +6dB | 0dB | -2dB |
| Rock | +3dB | 0dB | +2dB |
| Pop | +2dB | 0dB | +1dB |
| Classical | +1dB | 0dB | +1dB |
How to Put Subs in a Car
Installing subs in a car can be a great way to upgrade your sound system and get a more immersive audio experience. Here are the steps on how to put subs in a car:
- Choose the right subs and enclosure.
- Mount the subs in the enclosure.
- Install the enclosure in the car.
- Connect the subs to the amplifier.
- Tune the system.
People Also Ask
What size subs should I get?
The size of subs you need will depend on the size of your car, the type of music you listen to, and the amount of bass you want. If you have a small car, 10-inch or 12-inch subs will be a good choice. For larger cars, you can go with 15-inch or 18-inch subs. If you mainly listen to rap or hip-hop, you’ll need larger subs to get the best bass response.
What type of enclosure should I use?
There are two main types of enclosures: sealed and ported. Sealed enclosures are smaller and easier to install, but they don’t produce as much bass as ported enclosures. Ported enclosures are larger and more difficult to install, but they produce more bass.
Where should I mount the subs?
The best place to mount the subs is in the trunk of your car. This will give you the best sound quality and bass response. If you don’t have enough space in the trunk, you can also mount the subs under the seats or in the back of the car.
How do I connect the subs to the amplifier?
You will need to use speaker wire to connect the subs to the amplifier. The positive terminal on the subs should be connected to the positive terminal on the amplifier, and the negative terminal on the subs should be connected to the negative terminal on the amplifier.
How do I tune the system?
Once you have installed the subs, you will need to tune the system to get the best sound quality. This can be done by adjusting the crossover frequency, the gain, and the EQ.
