How to Hook up a Car Subwoofer 3 | Get Powerful Sound

How to Hook up a Car Subwoofer 3

Cars have been a status and style symbol for men ever since they came into being. But now they are becoming increasingly popular with all genders. Everyone is in the race to maintain their car according to their style. For example, Gen Z would want to add all the elements that scream “cool.” One such product is a subwoofer. Subwoofers are speakers that amplify low-frequency sounds (called sub-bass and bass). That might seem a hefty task to get done at home, but it is not. You need to wire the components together, and everything is ready. Let’s look at how to hook up a car subwoofer 3.

How to Hook up a Car Subwoofer 3

Learn about the types of car subwoofers:

Subwoofers come in various sizes as well as types.

Various types of subwoofers include: 

Powered/Active

Learn about the types of car subwoofers

Standard

Learn about the types of car subwoofers

Bass tubes

Learn about the types of car subwoofers

Shallow-mount

Learn about the types of car subwoofers

The size range includes 6-inch to 18-inch variants.

Choose the right car subwoofer:

Choose the right car subwoofer

Your car model, space, design, and budget will decide the right subwoofer. Cars having spacious car trunks can opt for the active or standard variety. 

Otherwise, shallow mount and tube styles work best. 

Monetary value varies within each type individually as well. 

Install the car subwoofer:

Install the car subwoofer

Before indulging in the actual process, disconnect the car battery for safety measures. 

Then lay out the equipment. Pick a spot for your subwoofer that is exposed to optimal ventilation and has additional space after the placement of the item since subwoofers are capable of releasing heat which can lead to damage to anything in close contact. Some good options for placement include a trunk and cabin. 

Additionally, amplifiers are best placed close to subwoofers. If your subwoofer doesn’t have a built-in amp, leave some space for that too.

Understand the wiring and connections:

Understand the wiring and connections

This is the most crucial step because most think that wiring should be left to professionals. Though partly true, getting your subwoofer to work is manageable with the right wiring and connections. 

The first connection that needs to be made is from your engine (that will act as the powerhouse for your subwoofer) to the inside of your car through the firewall. The wiring you will target is the power wire which is usually red. 

Now the wiring you dragged from the engine to the inside through the firewall will be connected to the stereo system.

The RCA and remote wires must be attached to the stereo, usually in the dashboard’s center. Unplug, pull out the stereo, and connect the wires to the appropriate compartment. The remote wire will be connected to the “amp or remote” region. 

The wiring is usually positioned laterally beside the doors so they are away from the naked eye. Preventive measures include spare wiring since the wire will extend from the engine to the trunk.

Set the right levels of power and impedance:

Set the right levels of power and impedance:

Look for the power wires in the battery. The red is the negative terminal, while blue/black is the positive terminal. Twist the power cable and insert it into the positive terminal. Place the connector back and secure the wiring.

Place of the car subwoofer:

Install the subwoofer and ensure it is in a box for easy portability and brackets. This is for additional protection. Since you have already connected the remote wire to the stereo, your stereo will automatically activate the subwoofer once your engine is turned on. Your subwoofer is now connected to the system. 

Set up the crossover filter:

Set up the crossover filter

Crossover filters separate the signals into various frequency bands so your subs are not overly burdened. The average frequency is 80 Hz, but it is generally set up at a frequency 10 Hz lesser than the minimum frequency of your sound system. 

Test the system:

Test the system:

Now turn the engine on by keying the ignition. Play music to see if your subwoofer is properly connected to the system. Adjust the bass levels to your needs. Review the connections after turning the engine off, or seek professional help if you encounter problems. 

Expert Opinion

All the knowledge about wiring and connections might give the amateurs a headache but don’t wait to knock it until you try. If, unfortunately, you get stuck in any of the steps, it is perfectly fine to seek professional help. The job will be done more quickly and efficiently. I hope you have learned how to hook up a car subwoofer 3.