How to Troubleshoot a Monsoon Stereo

Monsoon makes stereo components for OEM car makers. Monsoon systems are most commonly found in GM vehicles. Like much after-market stereo equipment, the Monsoon system can experience problems. Troubleshooting can take many forms, but there are some common problems that occur more often. In most cases the user will not need to purchase new parts. Monsoon makes speakers, head units and amplifiers. Often the Monsoon option is marketed as a higher end stereo.

  • Reset the stereo. Resetting it will restore all components to their factory default settings. This can correct internal problems with the stereo's software. To reset, simply remove the battery's connector cables. Disconnect the positive and negative cables from the battery, wait a minute and reconnect them. Ensure that you do not touch the metal terminals with bare hands.

  • Check the connections. Occasionally the connections to the stereo will become loose. This can result in crackling speakers or no sound. Locate the amplifier. This should be housed under the seats or in the trunk. Inspect all the connections to make sure they are in place. If they are not or a wire is missing, restore that connection.

  • Adjust the amplifier's settings. Occasionally the settings can be altered by mistake. Many Monsoon stereos will have multiple amplifiers, one for the interior speakers and another for the subwoofers. If the "Gain" or "Crossover" has been adjusted, this can cause distortions in the sound. The gain adjusts the volume level of that device. The crossover adjusts what frequencies will be played through the device.