Whining Noise From Speakers When Accelerating

5 Reasons: Whining Noise From Speakers When Accelerating

Before we know about solutions, let’s uncover the reasons behind this high-pitched noise:

1. Ground Loop Interference:

As mentioned above, this interference is the most common cause behind the speaker’s whining noise. It’s an electrical problem caused by multiple electronic equipments plugged into the same power outlet or battery, creating an electrical current through both connections simultaneously. However, when something like the car’s ignition system provides the additional voltage for acceleration, this causes feedback between the two sources and amplifies the sound, resulting in a high-pitched noise.

2. Poor Grounding:

It’s a form of electrical interference. Poor grounding is usually caused by an electrical current running through the grounds of the audio system, which creates magnetic interference that disrupts the sound waves. When the current runs through, it causes a distortion or humming in the audio signal, leading to a buzzing or whining sound from your car speakers.

3. Bad RCA Cables:

RCAs can also cause noise coming from car speakers when accelerating due to the interference caused by the changing electrical signals in the car. However, this is often caused by inadequate cable shielding, which allows external signals to interfere with audio quality and sound. Poorly shielded cables create an even greater risk of distortion and sound problems, such as a whining noise when you press down on the accelerator.

4. Alternator Noise:

Sometimes when you accelerate your car, its alternator produces noise – this ‘closet noise’ can interfere with the signal from your car speakers and cause a whining sound. As the alternator is connected to the car battery, the running engine can charge it. However, that charging process creates an electrical field close to nearby speakers, which can distort or influence their output. Moreover, the moving components in or around the engine, such as belts, pulleys, and other moving parts, can also create interference if they are too close to the speaker system. This makes a whining sound that increases when you accelerate your car.

5. Radio Frequency:

Another factor, such as radio frequency, is also a common reason that enables car speakers to produce unwanted noise due to acceleration. RF interference is generated from electronic devices in your vehicle, such as an alternator or spark plug wires. This interference causes an electrical current to be induced into the speaker wire, resulting in an audible whine coming through the speaker.

How to Fix Car Speakers Whining Noise?

Follow these steps if you want to fix the whining noise from speakers when accelerating instantly:

1. Check the Grounding:

Ensure that the poor ground wire connection is the reason behind such an unfortunate. Inspect the car’s grounding system for any loose connections or frayed wires. However, it is essential to ensure that all metal contacts are correctly grounded and that no bare metal surfaces could create a path for current flow between the ground point and other circuitry.

In case you find poor grounding, you should re-secure it to ensure good contact between metal parts. You can quickly do this using electrical tape or an appropriate connector, such as a grounding crimp. Alternatively, jumper wires can also create a permanently grounded connection between metal surfaces. If necessary, you may need to check the ground wire connection from your audio system’s amplifier.

2. Use a Noise Filter:

Installing a noise filter is the easiest way to eliminate or at least reduce the whining noise from the speakers. Engineers have designed the filter to block specific noise frequencies; in this case, it will reduce the whine associated with acceleration. To install the filter, you’ll need two main components: the filter itself and a wiring harness. Follow these simple steps:

• Locate the wiring harness: You can quickly find the harness behind the radio. Ensure you power off the system and unplug the battery terminals before you start the process.
• Plug in the device: Once you find the wiring harness, unplug it from the car stereo and install the noise filter’s wiring harness instead. Ensure you correctly make the connections while following the same terminal method. + with + and – with –
• Connect the noise filter: Get your noise filter and connect it to the wiring harness itself. Ensure all the connections are made correctly. After the connection, it’s time to plug the harness back into the car stereo. 
• Test the sound system: Now connect back the car stereo system with the respected terminals and play the sound on low volume. Accelerate the engine and notice if you hear any noise from the car speakers or subwoofers. If everything looks OK, you’ve successfully troubleshoot the error.

If you still find any errors, take the system to an expert and show him the car stereo so he can suggest the recommended filter type (In case you use the wrong one).

3. Check the RCAs:

Another quick solution that can help you fix the whining noise from car speakers is to find the wrong RCA cables and then fix them. The RCA connection is the two-conductor cable carrying audio signals between electronic components. They must be correctly plugged in and secured. Otherwise, this can lead to a humming or buzzing sound gradually increasing as you accelerate. 

To ensure the connection, follow the cables from the back of your speakers (Use a flashlight if necessary). If you see any loose connection, try tightening it with a flathead screwdriver or any appropriate tool. It’s also essential to check for any corrosion or dirt on the connection, as this can cause noise. If there is any debris, use a soft cloth and some electrical contact cleaner to clean it off.

4. Use a Ground Loop Isolator:

Another way to fix the whining noise is to use a ground loop isolator. According to my experience, I made the proper ground wire connection, but there was still noise from the car speakers. I used a ground loop isolator, which helped me eliminate the whining noise instantly. How does it work? This works because it separates the audio cables, so they don’t interact with each other electrically and thus prevent any unwanted humming or buzzing noises in your audio system. Follow these simple steps:

• First, you must disconnect all the power sources. Disconnecting the power sources will prevent damage to your car’s stereo system.
• Now connect the isolator between your head unit and the speakers, or you can also connect it between any other audio cable connection in the car.
• Simply turn on all the power sources back and see if there is still a whining noise. In case of its presence, you may need to make adjustments to eliminate interference from other electronic components like amplifiers or capacitor banks.

5. Check the Alternator:

Another efficient way to fix the whining noise is to check and replace the faulty alternator. Begin by examining your vehicle’s fuses to ensure they have not been blown due to a current overload or surge. Ensure all connections are secure and none have become corrupted over time. If you suspect any faulty fuses, just replace them with new ones (but with the exact specifications). Now it’s time to see if your alternator is OK. You can take your alternator for a test to ensure it provides the necessary electrical current for the vehicle. Many auto parts stores offer free alternator tests and can provide more detailed information about the condition of your alternator if needed. Check if the voltage regulator is functioning correctly by measuring the voltage output. If it is not, then have it replaced or repaired. If you suspect that the noise from the speakers is due to a bad alternator bearing, replace the old one with a new one.

6. Disconnect Auxiliary Components:

That’s also an efficient way to fix the whining noise when accelerating. Disconnecting auxiliary components from your speakers may help eliminate whining noise when accelerating. This is because accessories like add-on amplifiers and powered subwoofers can interfere with a vehicle’s electrical system. These components can cause a whining noise when revving the engine or hitting bumps on the road. Removing these components may resolve this type of issue. However, having an experienced technician inspect your car for any additional problems causing the whining sound is always best.

7. Fix Noise Caused by Radio Antennas:

You can fix the speakers noise caused by radio antennas by following the steps:

• Check the antenna connection: Ensure there is no disruption between the antenna and the radio connection. However, a loose connection can cause static or noise through the speakers.
• Replace the antenna cable: Visually inspect the antenna cable to see if it is damaged or corroded. If there is a problem with the antenna cable, your car stereo may face electrical interference. In case of damage, replace the thread with the new and better one.
• Adjust the antenna position: You may think about how adjusting the antenna position can fix the speaker’s noise. Sometimes, it’s worth doing. You need to change the antenna position to see if the problem has been gone.
• Use a noise filter: You can also use a noise filter between the radio and the antenna to reduce the whining sound. It can also help you with lowering the electrical interference.
• Replace it: If you see your antenna has been old or worn out, just replace it with a new and compatible one. For sure, it will help you eliminate the unpleasant sound.
• Ground the antenna: If your antenna is not properly ground, you can fix the whining noise by correctly grounding the antenna with your car’s chassis.