QuestionQUESTION: Hi Scott,
I know that buzzing in car stereo systems can be due to several different reasons-I hope you can help, it's driving me crazy. First off, this is not a new install-the buzzing (actually more of a fast clicking noise) just started out of the blue. I bought the vehicle with the system already installed-it has 2 external amplifiers and a subwoofer, if that matters. The stereo has always had a slight "whining" noise, especially when the headlights are on, but never buzzed before. The buzzing and whining do get louder when I accelerate; when the stereo is on without the engine on, there is no buzzing or whining, it is perfectly quiet and fine. I don't know if it's related, but I do seem to remember the stereo making a similar buzzing noise just before my battery died a couple months ago, but I got a brand new battery that seems to be fine and the car starts right up even in the frigid temperatures we've been having in New England, so I'm pretty sure there's no battery issue. If you have any idea what can be causing the buzzing noise and what I could do to get rid of it, I would greatly appreciate it, and of course if there's more info you need, I'll gladly supply it.
Thanks In Advance, Bob
ANSWER: Bob,
Very specific and very helpful description of your problem. It is very important to know of aftermarket equipment in an installation. Your problem does not sound too difficult. I would guess that there is a negative wire not doing it's job in your system. It is important to make the negative or ground wires as short as possible and tight to a chassis component. I would guess that one of your components has a not so short ground wire, and it is somewhat corroded. Check all ground wires for good connections to chassis. That should repair the buzzing sound. As for the whining sound, they make power supply harnesses with built in line filters to keep extra engine noises from coming in. You should be able to get rid of both noises with these fixes. Hope this helps, Scott
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QUESTION: Scott, thanks a lot for the quick and comprehensive answer. A couple questions: How many ground wires will there be? I know at least 2 (1 for each amp) and probably a 3rd for the unit itself? Also, would a retailer like Radio Shack carry the power supply harness you mentioned? Thanks again, Bob
AnswerBob, yes, there should be 3 ground wires. Be sure they are short as possible and tightly secured. The Noise filter harness should be available at Radio Shack, but if you want to know what to look for try this website: http://www.crutchfield.com and search for "noise filters". You will see a couple for powersource usage. One for 12.99 and the other for 18.99. Good Luck, Scott P.S. Let me know if these do not fix your problem. I would like to know.
