When it comes to upgrading your car’s audio system, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is whether to bypass the factory amplifier or not. In this guide, we’ll explain what a factory amplifier bypass is, the benefits of bypassing it, and how to do it yourself.
What is a Factory Amplifier Bypass?
A factory amplifier bypass is a process in which the factory amplifier in your car is disconnected from the system and replaced with an aftermarket amplifier. The factory amplifier is typically located in the trunk or under the seat of your vehicle and is responsible for boosting the audio signal from the head unit to the speakers.
Why Bypass the Factory Amplifier?
There are several reasons why you might want to bypass your factory amplifier:
Improved Sound Quality: Bypassing the factory amplifier allows you to use a higher quality aftermarket amplifier that can provide a clearer and more powerful sound.
Increased Volume: The factory amplifier is designed to work with the factory speakers, which may not be able to handle the high power output of an aftermarket amplifier. Bypassing the factory amplifier allows you to increase the volume of your audio system without damaging the speakers.
Easier Installation: Installing an aftermarket amplifier can be much easier if the factory amplifier is bypassed, as it eliminates the need to splice into the factory wiring.
How to Bypass the Factory Amplifier
Bypassing the factory amplifier is a relatively simple process that can be done by most car audio enthusiasts. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to bypass the factory amplifier in your car:
Locate the factory amplifier. This will typically be located in the trunk or under the seat of your vehicle.
Disconnect the factory amplifier. This can typically be done by unplugging the connectors or removing the mounting bolts.
Connect the aftermarket amplifier. The aftermarket amplifier can be connected to the head unit or the speakers, depending on the specific setup.
Test the audio system. Make sure that the sound quality and volume are improved before finalizing the installation.
Considerations
While bypassing the factory amplifier can bring many benefits to your car’s audio system, there are a few things to keep in mind before undertaking this modification:
Compatibility: Make sure that your aftermarket amplifier is compatible with your factory head unit and speakers. You’ll also want to make sure that your amplifier can handle the power requirements of your speakers.
Retention of Factory Features: Bypassing the factory amplifier can result in loss of certain factory features, such as steering wheel controls, factory equalization settings and built-in crossovers.
Cost: While bypassing the factory amplifier can be a cost-effective way to improve your car’s audio system, the cost of an aftermarket amplifier and any necessary installation equipment should be taken into consideration.
Professional Installation: Even though it is possible to bypass the factory amplifier yourself, it is always recommended to have the installation done by a professional. This will ensure that everything is done correctly and that your factory warranty isn’t voided.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a factory amplifier bypass?
A factory amplifier bypass is a process in which the factory amplifier in your car is disconnected from the system and replaced with an aftermarket amplifier.
Why should I bypass the factory amplifier?
Bypassing the factory amplifier allows you to use a higher quality aftermarket amplifier that can provide a clearer and more powerful sound. It also allows you to increase the volume of your audio system without damaging the speakers, and makes the installation of an aftermarket amplifier easier.
Can I do the factory amplifier bypass myself?
It is possible to bypass the factory amplifier yourself, but it is always recommended to have the installation done by a professional. This will ensure that everything is done correctly and that your factory warranty isn’t voided.
Will bypassing the factory amplifier void my factory warranty?
It depends on the specific make and model of your vehicle and the terms of your factory warranty. It is best to consult with a professional or check your vehicle’s warranty before proceeding.
What are some additional considerations before bypassing the factory amplifier?
Before bypassing the factory amplifier, make sure that your aftermarket amplifier is compatible with your factory head unit and speakers. You’ll also want to make sure that your amplifier can handle the power requirements of your speakers, and take into consideration the cost of an aftermarket amplifier and any necessary installation equipment. Additionally, you should be aware that bypassing the factory amplifier can result in loss of certain factory features, such as steering wheel controls, factory equalization settings and built-in crossovers.