Diagnosing amplifier problems is often problematic as a large number of different and unrelated problems all lead to the amplifier not turning on or not providing output to the connected speakers. Fortunately, many Kicker amplifiers are equipped with diagnostic lights that provide insight into the specific error affecting the amplifier. Using the diagnostic lights and documentation provided by Kicker, it is possible to diagnose and correct a large number of different amplifier problems.
Check the power and ground wires when the amplifier's red and yellow LED lights are not illuminated. Ensure that the power and ground wires are in the appropriate input on the amplifier and that neither wire is damaged.
Measure the voltage coming from the remote turn on wire when both the red and light LED lights are not illuminated. Connect the positive lead from the multimeter to the remote turn on wire and connect the negative lead to a ground. The voltage should be 12 volts.
Inspect the speaker terminals for signs of damage or incorrect connections when the red LED is illuminated and the yellow LED remains off. Swap the speakers connected to the amplifier with other speakers that are known to be in working order to ensure that the problem is with the amplifier and not the speakers. Additionally, connect the amplifier to a different source unit to ensure that the input signal is not the problem.
Connect the multimeter's positive lead to the power wire and the negative lead to a ground to check the amplifier's voltage when the yellow LED is illuminated and the red LED remains off. The amplifier cannot function if the voltage is not within the 9- to 16-volt range.
