How to install an amp and sub in your car | Crutchfield video

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of installing an amplifier and subwoofer in your car, using a Mazda as an example. The steps provided here are applicable to most vehicles, and we'll cover everything from wiring to connecting components for a significant audio upgrade.

Chapter 1: Project Overview

Before starting the installation, familiarize yourself with the components involved:

• Power Wire: Connects the amplifier to the battery.
• Ground Wire: Provides a grounding point for the amplifier.
• Remote Turn-On Wire: Activates the amplifier when the car's stereo is turned on.
• RCA Cables: Transfers audio signals from the stereo to the amplifier.
• Speaker Wire: Connects the amplifier to the subwoofer.
• Line Output Converter: Converts speaker wire signals from the factory stereo into RCA signals for the amplifier.

Practical Tips

• Always run RCA cables away from power wires to avoid noise interference.
• Ensure wires are appropriately sized for the power requirements.

Chapter 2: Disconnecting the Battery

1. Use a 10mm socket to disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery.
2. Ensure the terminal is tucked away to prevent accidental contact.

Chapter 3: Running Power Wire from the Battery

1. Connect the power wire with a power ring to the positive terminal of the battery.
2. Use flexible conduit (Flex loom) to protect the wire from heat.
3. Install a fuse holder close to the battery for safety.

Chapter 4: Getting Through the Firewall

1. Locate a grommet in the firewall where factory wires pass through.
2. Carefully make a small hole next to the existing wires using a knife.
3. Use a coat hanger with a hook to pull the power wire through the grommet.

Chapter 5: Installing the Fuse

1. Cut the power wire near the battery and attach it to the fuse holder.
2. Use an Allen wrench to tighten the connection securely.
3. Connect the fuse holder to the battery.

Chapter 6: Routing the Power Wire to Amp Location

1. Route the power wire from behind the glove compartment down the door sills to the amplifier's location.
2. Tuck the wire under the panels, using tools as needed.

Chapter 7: Finding a Grounding Point

1. Identify a suitable bolt on the car's chassis for grounding.
2. Sand the area to remove paint, ensuring a good connection.
3. Attach the ground wire to the bolt and secure it tightly.

Chapter 8: Getting Signal to the Amp

1. Remove the factory stereo and access the wiring harness.
2. Identify the speaker wires to tap into for audio signals.
3. Use Posi-Taps for easy connection without cutting factory wires.

Chapter 9: Hooking Up the Line Output Converter

1. Connect the tapped speaker wires to the line output converter.
2. Secure the converter in the dash, ensuring it's stable.

Chapter 10: Running the RCA Cables to the Amp Location

1. Route the RCA cables and remote turn-on wire from the converter to the amplifier.
2. Use proper techniques to tuck the cables under panels.

Chapter 11: Connecting RCA and Power at the Amp Location

1. At the amplifier, connect the RCA cables to their respective inputs.
2. Connect the power wire, ground wire, and remote turn-on wire securely.

Chapter 12: Connecting the Speaker Wire From Amp to Sub

1. Use thicker speaker wire to connect the amplifier to the subwoofer.
2. Strip the ends of the speaker wire and connect them securely to the amplifier and sub.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully installed an amplifier and subwoofer in your car! Key steps included routing power and ground wires, connecting to the factory stereo, and ensuring all connections are secure. With this upgrade, your factory stereo will produce significantly better sound quality. If you have further questions or need assistance with selecting components, consider reaching out to a trusted audio retailer for guidance.