How to Install a Car Amp

Installing an amplifier in your car will drastically improve your sound quality and volume even on factory speakers. The amplifier will usually allow you a little more control over your car's sound, since most amps come with a built-in equalizer. Installing the amplifier in your car is fairly simple when you know what you are doing.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Amplifier
• Amplifier wiring kit
• Wire strippers
• Wire crimpers
• Electrical tape

1. Select a location for your amplifier. For the sake of example, we will assume you have chosen the trunk as your amplifier location.

2. Run the radio signal wires from your stereo back to your amplifier on the opposite side of your car's battery. If your battery is centrally located, pick either side.

3. Route the blue remote lead wire, which is usually a very-small-gauge wire, from the radio receiver to your trunk. Route this wire on the other side of the car.

4. Attach the heavy-gauge wire (8 gauge or larger for most amplifiers) to your car's battery using the fittings that come with your amplifier wiring kit. Then route this power cable to your trunk on the same side of your car as the remote lead.

5. Strip 1/2 inch of insulation off the ground wire to attach to your amplifier.

6. Affix a ring or spade on the other end of the ground wire, and then use a self-tapping screw and attach the ground wire directly to the body of your car.

7. Secure your amplifier in your trunk by screwing it into the body or some other location.

8. Connect the signal cables, power, ground wire and remote lead to your amplifier.

Tips & Warnings

• When you turn the car stereo on for the first time, you should be sure the amp is turned down so you do not blow your speakers.
• Car amplifiers come in many different brands and types. Speak with a knowledgeable salesperson to decide exactly what amplifier make and power level you need.
• Purchase an appropriate wiring kit for your amplifier. This will make things much simpler during installation.
• Know what you are drilling into when you attach the ground wire or the amplifier to your car so that you do not drill into your gas tank or other dangerous areas.
• Use electrical tape on wire joints of any kind to ensure a good connection.
• Make sure you purchase the right amplifier for your speakers. Too much or too little power will damage your speakers and affect sound quality.
• Route the power and signal cables separately. Having a signal cable near or touching a power cable can result in interference in your signal.