Rep Power: 0

Hey guys,

I had a sub and amp installed awhile ago and now my lights flickering (or flutter) like they are pulsing. Somebody mentioned to install a capacitor, but I hear that I might need a deep-cycle battery or alternator that generates more power instead, because I just need more current to my electronics.

What do I need. The amp is only a Polk 330 with a Polk 8" sub. Also my emergency brake light comes on from time to time and now my SRS light comes on randomly as well.

2000 Honda Civic EX Coupe
Dark Green 175k

Thanks for the help in advance! I'm new to this site!

 
Rep Power: 204

Professional install? Could be bad ground or under gauge wiring. The hot for the amp should be fused and run right off the battery. Try disconnecting that fuse and see if the flickering goes away. From what I understand capacitors are pointless. Could be your alternator/battery need some attention given it's age.

 
Rep Power: 0

Yeah it was a professional install and they recommended the battery / alternator thing. What is the hot for the amp? I believe I bought a good monster amp install kit with my install since I get discounts on all that stuff. I did get a pretty good battery last time, but it has been 3 or 4 years. Alternator has never been replaced that I know of, but it seems all the ones online put out relatively the same power.

 
Rep Power: 518

If they dim when the bass hits hard, it's stereo related.

If they pulsate at ANY other time, it's not stereo related and you probably have a real problem. (turn the damn radio off and watch it!)

175k is plenty for an original alternator.

Check brake fluid level. If it is halfway between full and low -- that's low enough to turn on the light. Check brake pad wear.

Unless that light comes on with a bunch of other lights at the same time. Then it's alternator related.
Codes!?!?
Voltage? Monitor vehicle system voltage. What is it when the SRS light comes on?



If you can verify this stuff, that's 3 strikes against the alternator. LOL

 
Rep Power: 204

Sorry 'hot' is the direct 12 volt line powering the amp. Removing the fuse will stop any power from the car going to it.

You should check all your grounds coming off the battery to the chassis while your at it. Make sure they are all clean metal to metal contacts.

 
Rep Power: 0

Well they dim when the stereo is off. I've checked plenty of times, but not with the music hitting hard.

Break fluid is fine. Front brakes have been re-done recently, but the rear drums brakes have not been done.

I will check the others tomorrow.

THANKS!