How to install extra battery for car audio

If you’re an avid audiophile, then giving your car a more powerful audio system is a must. However, installing extra speakers and subwoofers can quickly drain your car battery, especially if you like to play your music at high volumes. To avoid any issues with your battery, one solution is to install an extra battery. Here, we’ll offer you a step-by-step guide on how to install an extra battery for your car audio system.

Before we start, it’s important to note that this installation process requires some technical know-how and electrical experience. If you’re not confident about your abilities, it’s recommended to take your car to an experienced mechanic or audio installer.

The first step in installing an extra battery for your car audio system is to choose a suitable battery. You’ll need to select a battery that is compatible with your car, and that has enough power to handle your audio system. A deep-cycle battery is the best option, as it can handle the frequent charging and discharging that come with playing music at high volumes.

How to Install an Additional Battery for Car Audio

Step 1: Choose the Right Battery

The first step in installing an additional battery for car audio is to select the right battery. It should be a deep-cycle battery that is designed to handle the high current loads required by car audio systems. Choose a battery with a capacity that matches or exceeds the power requirements of your car audio system.

Step 2: Mount the Battery

The next step is to mount the battery in a secure location. The battery should be mounted as close to the amplifier as possible to minimize the length of the power cable. It should be secured tightly to prevent it from moving or rattling while driving.

Step 3: Wire the Battery

After the battery is secured, it’s time to wire it. First, disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery to prevent any electrical accidents. Then, run a power cable from the positive terminal of the additional battery to the positive terminal of the amplifier. Next, run a ground wire from the negative terminal of the additional battery to a metal point in the car’s chassis.

Step 4: Install a Battery Isolator

To prevent the additional battery from draining the car’s main battery when the car is turned off, install a battery isolator. A battery isolator allows the additional battery to charge while the car is running, but prevents it from draining the main battery when the car is turned off.

Step 5: Test the System

After the battery is wired and the isolator is installed, it’s time to test the system. Turn on the car and the car audio system to verify that everything is working properly. Monitor the voltage of the additional battery to ensure that it is charging and not draining the main battery.

Installing an additional battery for car audio is a simple process that can greatly improve the performance of your car audio system. By following these steps, you can ensure that your system is running at its best and that your car’s main battery is protected from draining.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Tools:

• Socket wrench set
• Wire stripper/cutter tool
• Butt connectors and/or soldering kit
• Heat shrink tubing and heat gun

Materials:

• Extra battery
• Battery isolator
• Battery terminals (positive and negative)
• 6-8 gauge power wire
• Ground wire
• In-line fuse holder and fuse

Before starting the installation process, it is important to have all necessary tools and materials readily available. This will save time and ensure that you have everything you need to properly install an extra battery in your car audio system.

The required tools include a socket wrench set, a wire stripper/cutter tool, butt connectors and/or a soldering kit, and heat shrink tubing with a heat gun. These tools will be used to properly connect wires and secure the battery terminals to the power wire.

The materials that are needed for the installation include an extra battery, a battery isolator, battery terminals (positive and negative), 6-8 gauge power wire, ground wire, and an in-line fuse holder with fuse. These materials will provide the power necessary to support the additional load of the car audio system and protect the electrical components of the vehicle.

Step 2: Find a Suitable Location for the Battery

Consider the Size and Shape of the Battery

Before choosing a location for the extra battery in your car audio system, consider the size and shape of the battery. Choose a location that offers enough space to fit the battery comfortably. Usually, the trunk of a car is a great place to install an extra battery. However, make sure that the size and shape of the battery you plan to install will fit the space you have in mind.

Choose a Location Close to the Amplifier and Main Battery

Choose a location that is close to the amplifier and main battery in the car. This will help minimize the distance that the current has to travel from the battery to the amplifier. The shorter the distance, the less resistance the current will encounter, ensuring that the amplifier gets enough power to function efficiently.

Avoid Excessively Hot or Wet Locations

Avoid locations that are excessively hot or wet as this could damage the battery inside the car. Choose a dry location where the battery can be protected from moisture and heat. Also, avoid locations where the battery can be easily knocked or hit, such as the area close to the tire well. This will prevent the battery from getting damaged from accidents on the road.

Consider the Running Wires

Before making a final decision, consider the running wires that will be needed to connect the extra battery to the audio system. Choose a location where the wires can be easily run and secured without causing any damage to the car. Also, make sure that the wires are not creating any interference with other systems in the car.

Step 3: Connect the Battery to the Car Audio System

1. Connect the Positive Terminal

Locate the positive terminal of the extra battery and connect the positive cable from the car audio system to it. Use a wrench to tighten the connection and ensure that it is secure.

Note: Make sure both batteries have the same voltage rating to avoid any damage to the car audio system.

2. Connect the Negative Terminal

Connect the negative cable from the car audio system to the negative terminal of the extra battery. Again, use a wrench to tighten the connection properly, making sure that it is secure.

3. Install a Battery Terminal Isolator

If you’re using an isolated battery system, install a battery terminal isolator to avoid draining the starting battery. The isolator will ensure that the two batteries are not connected to each other, so the starting battery won’t be drained by the car audio system.

4. Test the Car Audio System

After connecting the battery to the car audio system, start the engine of the car and test the car audio system. Ensure that the sound quality is better and check that all components are working correctly.

Note: If you’re not sure about the installation process, always consult a professional for help.

Step 4: Test and Maintain the Additional Battery

Test the Battery

Once the additional battery is installed, it is important to test it to ensure it is charging properly. Use a voltmeter to test the voltage on the battery terminals before starting the car and after running the car for a while. The voltage should increase when the car is running, indicating that the alternator is properly charging both the main and additional batteries. If the voltage does not increase, there may be an issue with the wiring or alternator, and further inspection is necessary.

Maintain the Battery

To ensure the longevity of the additional battery, regular maintenance is necessary. Check the battery’s water level every few months, and add distilled water as necessary. Clean any corrosion from the battery terminals and cable connections with a wire brush and baking soda and water solution. Also, ensure that all cable connections are tight and secure. It is also helpful to use a battery trickle charger when the car is not in use to keep the battery charged and maintained. By properly maintaining the additional battery, it will continue to operate at its best for years to come.