How To Tell If A Car Subwoofer Is Blown? – How to Fix?

If peculiar symptoms emerge from your car subwoofer, multiple indicators can help you discern whether it’s blown. The confusion might set in, prompting questions about what went wrong and where the problem lies. 

This article aims to unravel the mystery of identifying a blown car subwoofer and understanding the causes behind it. Delve into the details to gain a comprehensive understanding.

What Does the Word “Blown Subwoofer” Mean?

As you engage with your subwoofer over time, an unmistakable change in performance may become apparent. The once-thumping bass might lose its vigor, accompanied by a noticeable distortion in the sound.

This article seeks to demystify the term “blown subwoofer” and elucidate the telltale signs that indicate such a predicament.

How To Tell If A Car Subwoofer Is Blown? – 4 Easy Methods

Some common ways are given below to identify blown subwoofers. 

1. Physical Inspection:

One of the most effective ways to identify a blown subwoofer is through a physical examination.

Check for any visible cracks or damage on the subwoofer’s surface. Place your hands on each side of the subwoofer, press down on the cone, and listen for any unusual sounds or movements.

Stiffness or lack of response may indicate a blown subwoofer, while excessive movement suggests worn-out spiders and surround suspensions.

2. Listen To Music:

Music, when used judiciously, can unveil insights into the state of your car audio system. Keep the music at a base level and gradually increase the volume. If distortion becomes evident during volume escalation, it could be a sign of subwoofer issues.

Additionally, if the bass fails to reach you at higher volumes, the subwoofer might be failing.

3. Touch The Subwoofer:

Subwoofers convert electrical energy into sound energy through vibrating cones. Place your hands on the subwoofer, and if you feel no vibration, it could be a sign of a blown subwoofer.

However, it’s essential to rule out amplifier weakness or damaged wires before concluding that the subwoofer is indeed blown.

4. A Multimeter Be Used:

Employing a multimeter, also known as a multitester, provides a straightforward method to test for a blown subwoofer. Disconnect the input and power source from the subwoofer before proceeding.

After this, set the multimeter to test ohms, connect the probes to the positive and negative terminals, and observe the Ohms reading. If the reading deviates significantly from the subwoofer’s rated Ohms or shows considerable fluctuation, it indicates a blown subwoofer.

What Are The Causes Of A Blown Subwoofer In A Car?

A blown subwoofer can be a sonic letdown, and various factors contribute to this predicament. Below, we explore some of the key culprits behind a blown subwoofer and delve into the symptoms of a blown voice coil.

Too Much Power:

One common culprit behind blown subwoofers is an excess of power. When a speaker receives power beyond its recommended range, the voice coils are at risk of overheating and frying, rendering them useless.

Exceeding the subwoofer’s energy-handling capacity can lead to the generation of excessive force, causing the speakers to draw more electricity than they can handle and ultimately resulting in a blown subwoofer.

Wire Failures:

Loose wiring connections present another electrical challenge that can lead to blown subwoofers. Insecurely connected wires or insulation failure at wire joints can cause poor connectivity and high resistance.

These issues may lead to overloading and contribute to the demise of the subwoofer.

Mechanical Failures:

Mechanical problems affecting the protective or supportive components of speakers can contribute to a blown subwoofer. Regular inspection for signs of damage and proactive replacement of worn parts can help prevent mechanical accidents that might lead to a blown subwoofer.

Rusted And Broken Parts:

Rust on metal components can make them susceptible to breaking under stress. Rust on terminals or seams can prevent the voice coil from making proper contact, leading to resistance, overheating, and eventually a blown speaker.

Can A Blown Subwoofer Be Fixed?

The prospect of fixing a blown subwoofer depends on the extent of the damage. If an old speaker is in good condition, it can be replaced with a new one, restoring functionality.

However, if the wiring or voice coil is significantly damaged, repairs may not be feasible. Consider the cost of fixing an old speaker versus investing in a new one; in many cases, purchasing a new subwoofer is a more cost-effective solution.

Read Also: Neodymium Vs Ferrite Magnets – For Speakers and Subwoofers?

Now, let’s take a look at some related FAQs.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the most related questions asked by individuals.

Conclusion

If the beats have fallen silent from your subwoofer, it’s time to tackle the issue head-on. The information provided in this article offers accurate guidance. Follow these steps, or if the process feels daunting, enlist the expertise of a professional car subwoofer tester.

May your bass be bold, and your beats be vibrant!

Good Luck 🤞.