How to Troubleshoot Car Stereo Speakers

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:TroubleshootCarStereoSpeakers
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How to Troubleshoot Car Stereo Speakers

Introduction

Car stereo speakers are something we usually take for granted, assuming they should always work. But sometimes things happen and you will need to determine what type of problem you are experiencing in order to complete the proper repairs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Identify Speaker

Steps

1

Step One

Turn the car on and turn on your stereo.
2

Step Two

Adjust the fader to the front and then to the rear, listening to the sound.
3

Step Three

Notice whether the problem seems to be in the front or the back, then set the fader there and leave it in that position.
4

Step Four

Set the balance all the way to the left and then to the right, to determine exactly which speaker is causing the problem.

Speaker Crackles or Distorts

Steps

1

Step One

Listen for crackling or distortion in the speaker at lower volume levels. If you detect the distortion or crackling, then the speaker is probably blown.
2

Step Two

Remove the paneling in front of the speaker and inspect the speaker cones for any cracks, tears or other damage. If these problems exist, the speaker needs replaced.
3

Step Three

Ensure that the sound you hear is the speaker and not something nearby that is rattling with the sound.

Tips & Warnings

  • The speaker may have a crack you cannot see that is causing a problem. If you hear crackling or distortion at low volume levels, the speaker is probably blown and should be replaced.
  • If you only detect distortion at higher volume levels, try turning down your bass a little, as this should solve the problem.

Speaker Makes No Sound

Things You'll Need

  • DC Voltage meter

Steps

1

Step One

Access the back of the speaker and ensure the wires are still firmly connected and the connections do not show signs of corrosion.
2

Step Two

Test the voltage of the signal wires to see if you are getting a signal. If not the problem is in your wiring or your stereo itself.
3

Step Three

Inspect the speaker itself and be sure that the wires going from the wire connection into the speaker cone itself are still intact.

Tips & Warnings

  • If the speaker only cuts out sporadically verify that the connections are all good. Cutting out is usually caused by a loose wire connection or an old connection that is corroded and shorting out.
  • If you cannot diagnose the problem on your own, you should take your vehicle to a professional.
  • Be careful working with vehicle electronics you can be shocked.
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