Sound Judging

Do this test to compare overall sound quality, imaging, and dynamics between the client's vehicle and a known-good vehicle. Only use a vehicle of the same model and trim level for this test.

1. In the client's vehicle, set the bass, treble, fader, and balance settings to the client's normal settings that were written down before beginning the test.
2. Insert the audio diagnostic CD (T/N 07AAZ-SDBA100) into the audio unit or the audio-navigation unit.
3. Play tracks No. 7 to 12 (sound quality, midland, dynamics, and imaging demonstration tracks) at a normal, or slightly higher than normal, volume level. Write down the volume setting being used.
4. Listen to areas of the track that stand out as being either very clear or poorer than other areas of the track.
5. In a known-good vehicle, insert the audio diagnostic CD (T/N 07AAZ-SDBA100) into the audio unit or the audio-navigation unit.
6. Play the tracks at the same volume level and the same bass, treble, balance, and fader settings as used in step  3 in the client's vehicle.
7. Listen to the same area of the track that stood out as being either very clear or poorer than other areas of the track.
8. Compare the client's vehicle's sound quality results the known-good vehicle's results.
   • If the sound quality in the client's vehicle is comparable to the sound quality in the known-good vehicle, then the client's vehicle is operating as designed.
   • If the sound quality is not comparable, check these items in order:
     • Loose or improperly installed speakers or other hardware that may create interference from the vibrations generated by the speakers
     • Faulty stereo amplifier
     • Damaged speaker(s)
     • Poor power or ground to the stereo amplifier
     • Faulty audio unit or audio-navigation unit