A car audio capacitor, also known as a stiffening cap, prevents dimming of headlights and dash lights when playing loud bass notes. It supplies the amplifier with quick jolts of power. In your search, you are looking to buy the best device for your car and whose price is within your planned budget. It’s good to know that the capacitors come with varying features, so what works in one car may fail in another. Let’s take a look at some of the essential considerations you should look at before deciding on a particular stiffening cap.
Voltage and surge voltage rating
Various stiffening caps have different voltage ratings. Considering the average car battery voltage rating that ranges from 12v to about 15v, you want to purchase a gadget that can handle a maximum of about 16V. Select a capacitor with a surge voltage of about 20V to prevent damage during surges.
Capacitance
Capacitance refers to the charge a particular capacitor can store and is measured in Farads(F). Capacitors with higher capacitance value are more powerful, but you need to consider your amplifier’s power to decide on the appropriate capacitance. 1F to 2F can work well with an amplifier power rating of less than 2kiloWatts. Consider higher capacitance for a more powerful amplifier.
Durability
Durability remains a critical aspect to consider when purchasing any product. When choosing a stiffening cap, you ought to buy one with a long lifespan. But how do you know? The materials and finishing of a reliable capacitor should be non-corrosive and able to resist weather elements. The terminals should be made of durable materials highly resistant to wear.
Ease of installation and charging
You are looking to buy a trouble-free gadget that’s easy to use. Opt for a cap that charges within a short time and easy to connect to your car’s audio system. Moreover, it should be easy to disconnect when necessary. The package should include mounting hardware such as mounting screws and brackets.
LED display and audio alerts
Knowing the current state of your capacitor doesn’t have to be a challenge. Purchase a cap that features a digital display that allows you to view its voltage without using a voltmeter. If your budget allows, purchase a capacitor that produces audible alerts for reverse polarity, overvoltage, and low voltage.
Your budget will largely influence your choice of car audio capacitor. You are looking for a gadget powerful enough to power your car amplifier and hence prevent dimming of lights. Knowing what to look for in your stiffening cap beforehand ensures that you invest your money in the right device for your car’s audio system. So, keep the discussed elements in mind.