How to Mount a Subwoofer Box in the Trunk?
A trunk can be an excellent place to mount your subwoofer box. A subwoofer, especially the ported one, performs excellently in this area by providing the deep bass you’re looking for.
However, you may face many hurdles while mounting the subwoofer enclosure. As a car audio expert, I will explain all the possible and best methods to secure the subwoofer in a trunk. Also, placing the subwoofer box in this area helps you avoid stealing your subwoofer from the snatchers.
Let’s make it simple. You can use screws, bolts, strips, or L-brackets to place the subwoofer in the trunk. However, ensure you put your subwoofer in the right direction inside the trunk to get the most out of it.
Anyway, let’s dive in!
Tools You Would Need to Mount the Subwoofer Box:
Before you begin, ensure that you have these essential components to execute the mounting process successfully:
- Screwdriver: You will need a Philips head or flathead screwdriver in the mounting process.
- Level: This tool will help you level your sub box in the right direction.
- Measuring tape or ruler: This will help you to decide the exact hole you want to drill.
- Drill: If you consider the method that involves drilling the floor or seat, you will need it.
- Strips, Velcro, or Adhesive: However, if you don’t want to make the mounting process complex, you can use them.
- Wrench & nuts: Keep them as necessary tools.
- Custom Bracket: You will also need to afford a custom bracket to firmly mount the subwoofer in the trunk.
- Straps or bungee cords: You must have these components if you want to mount your subwoofer using this method.
While mounting a subwoofer box properly in a car trunk, you must keep these tools on the checklist.
5 Methods to Mount a Subwoofer Box in the Trunk:
Here are some standard and reliable methods you can use:
1. Screws & Bolts:
You will need some screws, bolts, and washers to secure the box and provide additional stability for sound quality. Here’s how you can do it:
- Choose an appropriate area in the trunk. Start by drilling the holes into the mounting surface of the box safely.
- Once you drill the holes, place the box in position and mark the locations of each hole. When drilling into the trunk area, ensure you use a drill bit slightly larger than the screws you plan to use so they can fully seat when tightened.
- Next, insert the screws and bolts through your pre-drilled holes on the mounting surface of the box.
- Secure the screws and bolts using washers to provide additional stability for your subwoofer box.
- Start by tightening each screw, then double-check that all screws and bolts are secure before you move on to testing.
After the process, it is essential to ensure that all screws are tightened adequately, as loose connections can cause the box to vibrate or move and affect the sound quality.
2. Use Velcro & Strips:
Velcro and strips can be used as an effective and secure way to mount the subwoofer box. Also, you don’t have to damage your trunk by drilling extra holes using this method. Follow these simple steps for successful execution:
- Ensure you clean the area where you want to put your enclosure thoroughly.
- Now, get two sets of strips. Attach one to the cleaned area of the trunk carpet and the other to the box. (Some enclosed subwoofers come with pre-cut velcro strips that you can use for mounting)
- However, if you do not have pre-installed velcro, take velcro strips and cut them slightly larger than the subwoofer box.
- Peel off the adhesive backing from one side of each strip, and place them on the back of the subwoofer box and the trunk.
- Press firmly to ensure a good bond between the Velcro strips and surfaces.
- Finally, press your mounted subwoofer into the trunk until it is securely in place.
3. Use Strong Adhesives Such as Epoxy or Silicone:
This method is similar to the above one. In this method, you also have to clean the trunk floor properly to avoid getting it to loosen once you mount the subwoofer enclosure. Follow the simple steps below:
- Start by cleaning both surfaces of the subwoofer box and the trunk with a mild detergent and a lint-free cloth. This way, you ensure that the surfaces are free of dirt, dust, or other particles that can interfere with the adhesive’s ability to form a strong bond.
- Once you have cleaned the surfaces, it is time to apply the epoxy or silicone adhesive. Apply an even layer of glue to the subwoofer box and the trunk. Ensure you use only a little, as this can cause a mess when attaching the two surfaces.
- Once you have applied the adhesive, carefully lower the subwoofer box into position onto the trunk. Also, align your subwoofer box properly.
- Now it’s time to press firmly in place for several seconds to form a strong bond between the two surfaces.
- Now the last step is to leave the adhesive to cure for at least 24 hours before you attempt to move or use the subwoofer box in any way.
4. Use Straps or Bungee Cords:
Before you start subwoofer mounting in the trunk using this method, determine an ideal location for the process. Now follow the simple steps:
- For straps, use a pair of heavy-duty ratchet straps and wrap them around the box and secure them tightly on both sides. Ensure that the straps are not too tight, as it can cause damage to your subwoofer box.
- For bungee cords, use a pair of heavy-duty bungee cords and hook them onto the box from both sides. Make sure you don’t pull them too tightly, as this can also cause damage to your subwoofer box.
Once you have mounted the box, double-check that it is secure before driving. If need be, use a few pieces of duct tape around the straps or bungee cords as additional security.
5. Custom Brackets (L-Shaped):
This is a technical method to mount your subwoofer in the trunk. However, I guarantee you will get extra space and improved sound quality. Follow these simple steps:
- Get a set of L-shaped brackets for your specific car model. You can quickly find them in an auto store or an online store.
- Now you have your brackets. The next step is to measure and mark the areas where you want to mount the box. Ensure the measurements and marks are accurate, as this will determine how stable your subwoofer is when installed.
- Next, use a screw drive or wrench to remove any existing bolts or screws from the trunk area. Once you have removed the bolts, use a drill to create holes for the L-brackets.
- Now place the brackets into the holes and secure them with screws or bolts. When tightening the screws or bolts, ensure they are tight enough to keep the frame in place but not too tight, as this can damage your trunk.
- Once you place your brackets securely, you can mount your subwoofer box to them. Securely attach the box to the brackets using screws or bolts, and make sure they are tight enough not to move when playing music or shaking.
Things to Consider Before Mounting the Enclosure in the Trunk:
Now there are some significant points you must consider before you begin the process. Let’s start by explaining them one by one.
Space: You should look for other items stored in your trunk, such as spare tires or power cables, and ensure that they won’t get affected by the subwoofer installation. You must also check if there is enough air to move freely through the box from front to back and side.
Weight: If you mount a heavy subwoofer box without considering its weight, it can occur over strain and damage other components of your car. To avoid such issues, make sure you choose a mounting method that correctly supports the weight and size of your subwoofer box for safety.
Aesthetics: Not only should the sound be great, but you should also ensure that the look of your vehicle is improved. To accomplish this, consider how much space the box will take up and if it spoils or complements the overall looks of your car. Be sure to mount it securely and neatly to keep everything looking neat and finished off with style.
No. Of Subwoofers: When mounting subwoofer boxes in a trunk, it is essential to consider the number of subwoofers being used. If you place too many subs in the same area, they will compete for sound waves and cause distortion. Too few may not produce enough bass or sound quality.
Customization: Customization helps ensure proper air circulation around the box to maximize sound output quality while ensuring enough space to allow for your chosen subwoofers.
Reasons Why You Should Mount a Subwoofer in the Trunk:
In the end, I will tell you about some benefits of mounting the subwoofer in the trunk. Read them below:
Better Sound Dispersal: If you mount your subwoofer in the trunk, I guarantee you will get better sound dispersal by directing more of the bass frequencies out of the vehicle instead of into it. The added space gives it room to breathe, allowing for more significant movement and producing more prominent sounds. It also helps keep your car from rattling when you listen to music at higher levels, as there is more area for sound waves to travel through, resulting in a smoother and fuller listening experience.
Space Saving Installation: It is better to mount your subwoofer in the car trunk rather than the seats or where passengers sit. If you have a large-sized subwoofer, mount the sub box inside it and near to rear seat will save space for your other components such as groceries, tires, or toolbox.
It Makes It Secure From Theft: When mounting a subwoofer box in the car’s trunk, it helps to make it more difficult for someone to spot, and fewer components are exposed, making them harder to steal. This way, you provide your subwoofer box with an extra security layer.
Improved Sound Quality: If you have a trunk, why don’t you consider putting the sub-box in it? In my experience, a trunk has the complete acoustics (1) that a subwoofer needs to hit harder and sound cleaner. Mounting it there will be a perfect choice for any audiophile looking to improve sound quality.
General FAQs
How Do You Secure a Car Sub Box?
Securing a car sub-box is relatively easy. First, you must ensure that the box fits snugly into the trunk or backseat of your car.
As I’ve mentioned above, you’ll want to use bolts and washers to secure the box, ensuring that it is stable and won’t come loose while driving.
To protect against rattling and vibrating noises, add insulation around the box and seal any gaps with silicone adhesive caulk.
How Do I Keep My Sub Box From Sliding?
Using velcro or adhesive backing can help keep your sub-box from sliding. You can also use non-skid pads, which are sticky on the bottom. You can secure the pads to your sub-box using glue or double-sided tape.
To further prevent slipping, try placing carpeting material underneath it for extra grip and stability. Placing a heavy object over the top of the box can also be incredibly effective in preventing movement.