How to Install Subs and Amp to Factory Radio
Upgrading your factory radio with additional subwoofers and an amplifier can significantly enhance your car’s sound system. Not only will you enjoy deeper bass frequencies, but you’ll also get a more powerful and immersive listening experience. However, installing subs and an amp to a factory radio can be a daunting task for some. In this article, we will guide you through the process step by step, ensuring a successful installation.
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials, including:
– Subwoofers
– Amplifier
– Wiring harness
– Speaker wire
– Terminal connectors
– Heat shrink tubing
– Screwdriver
– Pliers
– Wire stripper
– Electrical tape
Step 1: Planning and Preparation
1. Choose the right subwoofers and amplifier that are compatible with your factory radio and car.
2. Familiarize yourself with the layout of your car’s interior, especially the location of the factory radio.
3. Determine the best placement for your subwoofers and amplifier to ensure optimal performance and aesthetics.
Step 2: Removing the Factory Radio
1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent any electrical accidents.
2. Locate the mounting brackets and screws that hold the factory radio in place.
3. Remove the brackets and screws, and carefully disconnect any wiring harnesses or connectors.
4. Gently pull the factory radio out of its mounting bracket.
Step 3: Mounting the Amplifier
1. Choose a suitable location for the amplifier, such as under the seat or in the trunk.
2. Secure the amplifier to the mounting surface using the provided mounting hardware.
3. Connect the amplifier’s power and ground wires to the appropriate locations in the car’s electrical system.
4. Route the amplifier’s wiring harness to the factory radio location, ensuring it is not in the way of any moving parts.
Step 4: Installing the Subwoofers
1. Determine the best placement for the subwoofers, considering the car’s interior space and the desired sound quality.
2. If the factory radio has a subwoofer output, connect the subwoofer wires to the appropriate output.
3. If the factory radio does not have a subwoofer output, use a line-level converter or an adapter to connect the subwoofers to the amplifier.
4. Secure the subwoofers in their mounting locations using the provided brackets and screws.
Step 5: Wiring and Connections
1. Connect the amplifier’s speaker wires to the subwoofers, using appropriate terminal connectors and heat shrink tubing for a secure and insulated connection.
2. Connect the amplifier’s power and ground wires to the car’s electrical system, ensuring proper grounding.
3. Connect the amplifier’s remote turn-on wire to the factory radio’s remote turn-on output, if available.
4. Secure all wiring connections with electrical tape to prevent any loose connections.
Step 6: Reinstalling the Factory Radio
1. Reconnect the wiring harnesses and connectors to the factory radio.
2. Mount the factory radio back into its mounting bracket, ensuring it is secure.
3. Reinstall the mounting brackets and screws.
4. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Step 7: Testing and Adjustments
1. Turn on the car and the factory radio.
2. Check the sound quality and adjust the amplifier settings, if necessary, to achieve the desired sound balance.
3. Test the subwoofers’ performance and ensure they are producing the desired bass levels.
By following these steps, you can successfully install subs and an amp to your factory radio, enhancing your car’s sound system and providing an unforgettable listening experience. Remember to take your time and be patient during the installation process, as proper wiring and connections are crucial for a safe and effective upgrade.
