Unwanted noise coming out of the stereo system can be a maddening experience especially when you are driving. One common occurrence is 'engine noise interference' which is like a whining sound that escalates when you speed up.
This can happen due to improper installation of aftermarket stereo, bad grounding, malfunctioning amplifiers and such. The moment you come up with such an issue, it's wise to have them repaired. Now, you might be asking, how to get rid of engine noise in car?
Don't stress, I have your back. I have vast knowledge about stereo systems and will provide you with the best solution. For fixes and how to avoid such noise, keep reading.
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Notable Symptoms of Engine Noise In Car Stereo
If you ask why my car stereo makes a buzzing sound, then I have to say that there are a few possibilities. You can identify them through the symptoms such as:
White Noise
If you hear static white noise, then the chances are that it is due to the ground loop from a cell phone or smart device. Whenever you connect a phone via the USB or RCA cable, there can be some additional whining sounds when you accelerate.
This is not a regular occurrence, most people won't have to worry about it, but whenever a phone is connected to the charging adapter, you better expect some hiss.
High-Pitched Noise From Engine Alternator
It's not always the stereo that is the culprit, but the engine itself can be the main concern. A malfunctioning alternator can be a pain in the neck and cause a different array of sounds that can reflect on your stereo system as well.
Mostly bad alternators will induce grinding sounds, squeaking or knocking. At times you can hear whining high-pitched sounds that tend to go up as you accelerate.
4 Steps To Get Rid of Engine Noise In Car Stereo
If your car stereo whines with engine acceleration, then it is time to have it fixed. The reason behind the noise can be faulty RC wires, defective speaker wires or improper grounding. This step-by-step guide will help you restore a noise-free stereo.
Step 1: Locate The Noise Source
As I mentioned, the noise can be coming from either the stereo system or the engine. You need to identify the source first before going for a fix. First, start the engine, then turn on the stereo and increase the volume.
While the engine is running you might hear the car stereo making a whining noise. It can even go up when you accelerate. Now turn off the engine to see if the noise is still there. If the hissing or white noise stays, then the problem is within the stereo. If the noise goes away, then the engine is the culprit.
Step 2: Replacing The RCA Cables
Faulty RCA cables are a prime reason behind engine noise coming from the stereo. In this part, you have to replace the old RCA connectors with new ones. If you observe that the noise is eliminated, then your previous RCA wires were faulty.
Step 3: Shield The Stereo
A bad shielding on the back of the stereo can cause interference and you may hear engine noise through the stereo. Here you will have to un-do the stereo from the dashboard. Then, cut out the nu metal sheet and wrap it around the stereo. Install the stereo back into the chassis and the sound engine noise should vanish.
Step 4: Rechecking The Engine Battery And Alternator
When an alternator goes bad, it will emit uncontrollable impulses that will eventually interfere with the stereo system and you get the whining noise. Sometimes a worn-out battery can be the main reason for engine noise.
If it's the battery, a replacement can solve the problem. For alternator issues, better seek professional help.
In such cases, your car might need spark plugs or spark plug wire replacement to reduce the noise
What To Do To Prevent Engine Noise In Car Stereo Speakers?
If you've followed the steps mentioned above, you will be able to take out the engine noise from your stereo system. If the problem persists, then some additional components can work wonders for you.
1. Adding Installing Inline Power Filter
A ground loop isolator breaks the bridge between the stereo ground and the car’s ground to reduce the noise.
Installing a loop isolator is simple, just take the coaxial plug and insert it into the stereo socket. Now link it with the RCA cables to your speaker and the head unit.
Note: To attach a noise filter you will need to connect the RCA wires using an adapter. You can get the adapter from any maintenance shop. Remember that the noise filter is used to eliminate the conflicting frequencies.
2. Make Sure The Ground Connections Come From A Central Point
The right ground location is vital in eliminating engine noise. Misplaced connections will induce noise one way or the other. This is why it's best to ensure that all the amplifier grounding emerges from a particular point.
Ending Note
Now that you are here, you probably know the easy steps on how to get rid of engine noise in car stereo. If you ever come up against buzzing or high-frequency squealing sound when revving the engine, understand there is something wrong with the RCA wires grounding, faulty stereo or engine issue.
For engine alternator problems you might have to change the spark plugs, even replacing the battery can fix things. If you are dealing with wire-connection issues, then replacing the RCA wires, or installing ground loop isolators can work.
Should you be worried? No! These things happen, just be patient and fix them immediately. Go to a professional mechanic if needed. Enjoy a noiseless music experience!
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