How Much Does Subwoofer Installation Cost in NZ?
Subwoofer installation cost depends on four things: the subwoofer, whether it needs its own amplifier, the wiring kit that powers it, and whether your car keeps its factory stereo. A powered under-seat sub is usually the simplest job. A boot subwoofer with a separate amplifier takes more parts and more time. Here is what changes the price, so you can compare quotes fairly.
Powered sub, or sub and amp
- A powered subwoofer has the amplifier built in. It is compact, often fits under a seat, and needs fewer parts.
- A subwoofer and a separate amplifier gives more bass and more choice, but needs space for the box and the amp, and heavier wiring.
Our guide to under-seat subwoofers covers when a compact sub is enough.
What changes the price
- The wiring kit: the power cable, fuse and earth must suit the amplifier, which our guide to amp wiring kit size explains.
- Your stereo: an aftermarket head unit usually has a subwoofer output. A factory stereo often needs a converter to give the amplifier a clean signal.
- Where it goes: under a seat or in the boot, and how far the cables have to run through the car.
- Your car: how much trim comes off to hide the wiring, and whether the battery is easy to reach for the power cable.
Why there is no price in this guide
A figure in an article cannot account for your car or the sub you want. We confirm one installed price in the free quote, once we know your make, model and year, your stereo and the sub you have in mind.
How to get a clear price
Send your make, model and year, a photo of your stereo, and the sub you want or the sound you are after. Ask for one installed price that includes the sub, any amplifier, the wiring kit and the labour. We fit subwoofers and amplifiers at your home or work anywhere in Auckland: see subwoofer and amplifier installation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add a subwoofer to my factory stereo?
Usually, yes. A factory stereo often needs a converter so the amplifier gets a clean signal, which we include in the quote if your car needs one.
Can I install a subwoofer myself?
Some people do, but the power cable runs from the battery and must be fused correctly. A badly fused or poorly earthed install can damage the wiring or cause noise.
Will a subwoofer drain my battery?
A correctly wired sub only draws power when the stereo is on. A large system played loud with the engine off can flatten a battery, as any audio can.
How long does a subwoofer install take?
A powered under-seat sub is usually quicker than a boot sub with a separate amplifier. We confirm the time when we quote.