Bose Box Subwoofer 28170 Wiring Diagram

Understanding the wiring of your Bose 28170 box subwoofer is crucial for a variety of reasons. Whether you're attempting to diagnose a performance issue, planning an upgrade, or simply trying to understand the factory audio system in your vehicle, this guide will provide a clear and detailed explanation of the wiring diagram. We'll break down the components, decipher the symbols, and offer practical troubleshooting tips.

Purpose of Understanding the Bose 28170 Wiring Diagram

The Bose 28170 wiring diagram serves several essential purposes:

Troubleshooting Audio Issues: When your subwoofer isn't performing as expected (e.g., no sound, distorted bass, intermittent operation), the wiring diagram is your roadmap to identifying the potential source of the problem.
Component Replacement: If a component within the subwoofer system fails, the diagram allows you to accurately disconnect and reconnect the new part without causing further damage.
System Upgrades: If you're planning to upgrade your car's audio system, knowing the existing wiring configuration is vital for integrating aftermarket components, such as a more powerful amplifier or a different subwoofer.
Learning and Education: For car audio enthusiasts and DIY mechanics, understanding the diagram provides valuable insight into how the entire system is designed and operates.

Key Specs and Main Parts of the Bose 28170 Subwoofer

While the exact specifications may vary slightly depending on the vehicle it's installed in, the Bose 28170 generally includes the following key components:

Subwoofer Driver: The speaker itself, responsible for producing low-frequency sound waves (bass). Its impedance (measured in ohms, typically 2 or 4 ohms) is a crucial parameter.
Enclosure (Box): The sealed or ported enclosure that houses the subwoofer driver. The enclosure's design significantly impacts the sound quality and bass response.
Amplifier (Often Integrated): Many Bose 28170 subwoofers have a built-in amplifier. This amplifier receives a signal from the head unit or factory amp and boosts it to power the subwoofer. Its power output (measured in watts RMS) is a key specification.
Wiring Harness: The collection of wires and connectors that connect the subwoofer to the vehicle's electrical system and audio source.
Connectors: Plugs that allow for secure and reliable connections. These may include power connectors, signal connectors, and ground connectors.

Common specifications to look for include:

Impedance: Usually 2 or 4 ohms. This is the electrical resistance the subwoofer presents to the amplifier.
Power Handling (RMS): The continuous power the subwoofer can handle without damage.
Frequency Response: The range of frequencies the subwoofer can reproduce.

Deciphering the Wiring Diagram: Symbols, Lines, and Colors

A wiring diagram uses standard symbols and conventions to represent electrical components and connections. Here's a breakdown of common elements:

Lines: Straight lines represent wires. The thickness of the line doesn't usually indicate wire gauge.
Colors: Each wire is assigned a specific color, which is typically indicated next to the line. Understanding these color codes is *essential* for proper identification. Common colors include Red (power), Black (ground), Yellow (remote turn-on), and various colors for audio signals (e.g., Green, White, Gray).
Ground Symbol: Usually represented by a series of horizontal lines that decrease in size, signifying a connection to the vehicle's chassis ground. A good ground connection is *critical* for proper operation.
Connectors: Represented by various shapes, often circles or rectangles with numbered pins. The pin numbers correspond to the specific wires connected to that connector.
Components: Resistors, capacitors, diodes, transistors, and other electrical components have specific symbols. While you may not need to understand all of them for basic subwoofer wiring, knowing the symbols for resistors and diodes can be helpful.
Amplifier Symbol: A triangle pointing to the right, often with additional symbols to indicate specific amplifier functions.

The diagram will also indicate the voltage levels expected on certain wires (e.g., 12V for power). Carefully examine the legend or key on the diagram to fully understand all the symbols and abbreviations used.

How the Bose 28170 Subwoofer Works

The basic operation of the Bose 28170 subwoofer involves the following steps:

Audio Signal Input: The head unit or factory amplifier sends a low-frequency audio signal (the bass frequencies) to the subwoofer's amplifier.
Amplification: The integrated amplifier boosts the low-level audio signal to a higher power level.
Subwoofer Driver Activation: The amplified signal is sent to the subwoofer driver, which is essentially a speaker.
Sound Production: The amplified signal causes the subwoofer's cone to vibrate, creating sound waves.
Enclosure Reinforcement: The subwoofer enclosure (the box) is designed to optimize the sound waves produced by the driver, enhancing the bass response.
Power Supply: The subwoofer receives power from the vehicle's electrical system (typically a 12V DC source). It also requires a ground connection for proper operation.
Remote Turn-On: A remote turn-on wire (often connected to the head unit) signals the amplifier to turn on when the head unit is powered on. This prevents the amplifier from constantly drawing power.

The wiring diagram illustrates how all these components are connected and how the electrical signals flow through the system. Understanding this flow is key to diagnosing problems.

Real-World Use: Basic Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some common issues you might encounter and how the wiring diagram can help:

No Sound: Use the diagram to check the power and ground connections to the amplifier. Verify that the remote turn-on wire is receiving a signal when the head unit is on. Check the audio signal input wires for continuity. Use a multimeter to test for voltage and continuity.
Distorted Sound: Check the speaker wires for shorts or loose connections. Verify that the subwoofer driver isn't damaged. Ensure the amplifier's gain is properly adjusted and not set too high.
Intermittent Operation: Look for loose connections in the wiring harness. Check for corroded terminals. Wiggle wires while the system is operating to see if you can trigger the problem.
Popping or Clicking: This could be a grounding issue. Ensure the ground wire is securely connected to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis.

Example: Let's say your subwoofer has no sound. Using the wiring diagram, you identify the power wire (typically red) and the ground wire (typically black). You use a multimeter to check for voltage on the power wire with the ignition on. If there's no voltage, you trace the wire back to the fuse box (again, using the diagram) and check the fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it. If the fuse is good but there's still no voltage, there's a break in the wire somewhere.

Safety Precautions

Working with automotive electrical systems can be dangerous. Always follow these safety precautions:

Disconnect the Battery: Before working on any electrical components, disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle's battery. This prevents accidental short circuits and electrical shocks.
Use Proper Tools: Use insulated tools designed for automotive electrical work.
Be Aware of Airbags: Avoid working near airbag modules. Accidental activation of an airbag can cause serious injury. Consult your vehicle's service manual for airbag safety procedures.
High-Current Circuits: The power wires supplying the subwoofer's amplifier can carry significant current. Be extremely careful when working with these wires. A short circuit can cause a fire.
Never Assume: Always verify wire colors and connections using the wiring diagram. Don't rely on memory or assumptions.

Important Note: Working on car audio systems involves risk. If you're not comfortable with electrical work, consult a qualified professional.

By carefully studying the Bose 28170 wiring diagram and understanding the principles outlined in this article, you'll be well-equipped to troubleshoot, repair, or upgrade your vehicle's subwoofer system. Remember to always prioritize safety and double-check your work.

We have the complete Bose 28170 wiring diagram file available for download. Please reach out if you would like to access it.