How to Install a Kill Switch on Car Stereo Amplifiers

Adding an amplifier to your car speaker system is essential for great sound. Sometimes you may want to be able to switch off those subwoofers or tweeters and only use part of your system. You may also want a quick way to "shut it down" if you see a cop and are rattling windows in your neighborhood. This is where a kill switch comes in handy.

Things You'll Need

• Switch
• 16 gauge wire
• 16 gauge end caps
• Wire strippers
• Electrical tape

Instructions

1. Select and purchase a 12 volt DC switch from your local electronics store.

2. Remove your stereo head unit and locate the switch power source wire that is connected to your amp. It is generally blue, about 16 gauge and it may also be used to raise your power antenna.

3. Splice in enough extra wire to reach the area where you wish to attach the switch. Make sure the wire you splice into only goes to your amplifier to avoid turning off other things.

4. Attach the wires to the switch following the instructions with the switch.

5. Install the switch into your dashboard or wherever you plan to install it following the switch's instructions.

6. Turn on the car and ensure that the amplifier is working correctly and does turn off when the switch is flipped.

Tips & Warnings

• If the switch doesn't turn off the amp, make sure the wires are not touching each other.

• Tape over the splice joints you make. This will help hold the wires into the end caps.

• The switch needs to be 12 volt DC. Be sure you buy the right switch type or you could cause a fire.