Upgrading your car's factory stereo system can make a huge difference in sound quality and performance. Rewiring the stereo is one of the most effective ways to get better, louder sound from your system. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to rewire your car stereo for the best possible sound.
Assessing Your Current Stereo System
Before rewiring, you need to assess your current stereo components to identify areas for improvement. Here are key things to check:
Speakers
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Size - Larger speakers with bigger cones tend to produce louder, fuller sound. Measure your current speakers. Upgrading to larger 6.5" or 6x9" speakers can make a big difference.
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Number of speakers - More speakers provide more sound coverage in your car. Most factory systems have just two speakers. Adding speakers to the rear and even additional front speakers can significantly increase volume and stereo separation.
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Speaker quality - Higher end aftermarket speakers use better materials and engineering for improved sound. Replacing factory speakers can be a very cost-effective upgrade.
Amplifier
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Check if you already have a factory amplifier. Many modern cars include a built-in amp. Rewiring with an upgraded high powered amp is essential for loud, distortion-free sound.
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If no factory amp, adding an aftermarket amplifier is highly recommended when rewiring. This is what really allows your speakers to reach their full potential.
Head Unit
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Head unit power - Check the wattage output of your factory stereo head unit. More watts delivers increased volume and reduces distortion. Consider upgrading the head unit if it has low, less than 15-20 watts per channel power output.
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Sound settings - Experiment with EQ and audio settings on your current head unit. This can optimize sound quality from factory components before rewiring.
Choosing New Stereo Components
Once you've assessed your existing system, next select any new gear needed for the rewiring:
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Head unit - Consider double DIN or touch screen models with high power, quality DACs, EQ/audio settings and features like Bluetooth. Match power output to your new amp.
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Speakers - Select high quality speakers that can handle your amp's power. Get larger models and multiple pairs for loud, full sound.
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Amplifier - Match the amp's power and channels to your speakers. Look for CEA-2006 compliant models from quality brands.
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Subwoofer - Adding a powered sub and amp really enhances bass response. For booming deep bass, get a 10" or 12" sub in a sealed, ported or bandpass enclosure.
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Sound deadening - Deadener improves sound by reducing road noise and rattling. Apply sheets of deadener material to doors and other panels.
How to Rewire a Car Stereo
Here is the complete process for rewiring your new stereo components into your car:
Step 1 - Remove the old stereo
- Pop off any trim panels to access the sides or back of the factory head unit and unplug all connectors.
- Take out the stereo bracket screws and remove the factory head unit.
Step 2 - Install the new head unit
- Place the new head unit in the old one's bracket location and screw it into place.
- For double DIN or large screens, install a dash kit to adapt the opening if needed.
- Connect the provided wiring harness and antenna adapter cables to the back of the new head unit.
Step 3 - Run new speaker wires
- Run new speaker wires from each speaker location back to the new amplifier location. Use high gauge oxygen-free copper wire for best performance, such as 16 or 12 AWG.
- For rear speakers, run wires through grommets into the trunk and back up to the amp.
Step 4 - Install the amplifier
- Mount the amp in an accessible, secure location like the trunk. Never install amps under seats or in the engine bay.
- Connect the power, ground and remote turn-on wires following the amp's manual. In most cases the power wire connects directly to the car battery.
- Connect the RCAoutputs from the head unit to the amp's inputs.
Step 5 - Connect the speakers
- Attach the new speaker wires to the amplifier's channels and to each speaker location correctly, + and -, observing polarity.
- Screw the new speakers securely into place in their mounting locations.
Step 6 - Set up subwoofer and auxiliary components
- Install the powered sub box or enclosure in the trunk and connect speaker wires to the amp sub channel(s).
- Run any extra components like EQs off the head unit or an auxiliary output on the amp.
Step 7 - Secure and test the system
- Neatly secure all wiring with zip ties, grommets, loom, and wire anchors.
- Test each speaker and component. Make adjustments to sound settings on the head unit amp for optimal quality.
Getting the Most Out of Your Rewired Stereo
To optimize your new car audio setup, here are some additional tips for tuning and adjustments:
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Fine tune EQ settings - Balance bass/mid/high frequencies based on your music genres and taste. A flat, neutral response provides clarity for all types of music.
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Adjust component crossovers - Use built-in crossovers in amps and head units to filter frequencies for each component set. For example, block low bass from smaller speakers.
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Consider sound dampening - Applying sound dampening sheets or insulation reduces vibrations for cleaner sound. Focus on doors and rear trunk areas prone to rattling.
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Avoid distortion - Keep volume at moderate levels to limit distortion. If speakers sound strained, reduce output level and adjust amp gains down.
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Consider upgrades down the line - You can further enhance sound by adding components like better speaker wire, capacitors, upgraded batteries, and additional amps.
Rewiring your car stereo lets you build a custom audio system designed for your vehicle that delivers way better sound than any factory stereo. Follow these steps to unlock the full potential of new gear for loud, outstanding car audio and music.