if your sound system demands more power than your stock alternator can supply, then you will benefit by upgrading to a higher output alternator.
Alternator and sound system upgrade
I have a 2020 acura ILX and am looking to put some subs along with a another amp in it. Power draw will be at least 1000 watts constant. I was planning on getting a HO alternator with at least 220 amps. I've only put subs in vehicles older than 2005. My buddy told me that in newer cars the ECU controls the alternator output based on need. Will the draw of the amp be included in that? He told me that I'd have to install a external voltage regulator and do a bunch of extra work and even then my dash would light up like a Christmas tree. Is this true, and could I flash the ecu to change this or somehow include the draw of the new amp? Thanks for any relevant info.
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Your friend is partially correct. Newer cars often have sophisticated electrical systems with ECU-controlled alternator output based on demand. However, this does not necessarily mean that you will need an external voltage regulator or that your dash will light up like a Christmas tree.
It is possible that the increased power draw from your additional amp and subs could cause issues with the ECU-controlled alternator output. To prevent this, you may need to upgrade your battery to a higher capacity and/or install a capacitor to help regulate voltage. It is also possible that your alternator may not be able to keep up with the demand, even with a higher output alternator.
It is always recommended to consult with a professional audio installer who can properly assess your vehicle's electrical system and recommend the appropriate upgrades for your specific needs. They may also be able to recommend solutions for integrating the additional power draw into the ECU-controlled alternator output.
Flashing the ECU may not be necessary or effective in this situation, as it is primarily responsible for controlling engine performance and emissions, not the electrical system.
It is possible that the increased power draw from your additional amp and subs could cause issues with the ECU-controlled alternator output. To prevent this, you may need to upgrade your battery to a higher capacity and/or install a capacitor to help regulate voltage. It is also possible that your alternator may not be able to keep up with the demand, even with a higher output alternator.
It is always recommended to consult with a professional audio installer who can properly assess your vehicle's electrical system and recommend the appropriate upgrades for your specific needs. They may also be able to recommend solutions for integrating the additional power draw into the ECU-controlled alternator output.
Flashing the ECU may not be necessary or effective in this situation, as it is primarily responsible for controlling engine performance and emissions, not the electrical system.
Assuming the sound system is a priority, what about an additional battery? I have always had 'Lightening caps' put on every sub amp, but 'lesser' (not comp level) to supplement car's audio...which is to say I understand farads (sp) and necessary level, but not what kind of pull that might have on alternator.Your friend is partially correct. Newer cars often have sophisticated electrical systems with ECU-controlled alternator output based on demand. However, this does not necessarily mean that you will need an external voltage regulator or that your dash will light up like a Christmas tree.
It is possible that the increased power draw from your additional amp and subs could cause issues with the ECU-controlled alternator output. To prevent this, you may need to upgrade your battery to a higher capacity and/or install a capacitor to help regulate voltage. It is also possible that your alternator may not be able to keep up with the demand, even with a higher output alternator.
It is always recommended to consult with a professional audio installer who can properly assess your vehicle's electrical system and recommend the appropriate upgrades for your specific needs. They may also be able to recommend solutions for integrating the additional power draw into the ECU-controlled alternator output.
Flashing the ECU may not be necessary or effective in this situation, as it is primarily responsible for controlling engine performance and emissions, not the electrical system.
I'm adding prebuilt Fosgate dual sub box, amp, and capacitor to current ride soon. In terms of farads. How much more should i go and how big is too many farads to cover it. Say suggested is 3. Do i go with 3? 4? 5? Or 10?
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