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Amplifier amperage limits for Prius?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by Hawaiiprius, Jan 27, 2020.

  1. Hawaiiprius

    Hawaiiprius Junior Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
    808
    Vehicle:
    2016 Prius
    Model:
    Three
    Hello. Are there any limits on the amplifier amperage draw on the 12v system? Would a 400w 4channel and a 600w sub amp be ok to install without compromising the reliability of the Prius 12v or hybrid systems?
     
  2. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

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    Vehicle:
    2018 Prius c
    Model:
    Two
    That will work fine. The peak demands by that gear will be close to the car's limits, but that's fine because it's only the peaks. The long term average draw will be much lower, well within what the Prius can supply. Just make sure you tap in on the load side of the shunt so that the car is properly aware of this extra load.

    I might suggest that you replace your 12v battery somewhat more often because it is on the small side. So instead of letting it go 4-5 years maybe replace it every 3rd year or so. Even that may be overkill.
     
    Hawaiiprius likes this.
  3. Hawaiiprius

    Hawaiiprius Junior Member

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    perfect. Thanks for the info
     
  4. Mohsin Afzal

    Mohsin Afzal Junior Member

    Joined:
    Aug 1, 2019
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    Location:
    Burnley
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    ----UK----
    Hi. What is meant by the load side of the shunt. I'm looking to put a sub in to my car. The system I'm wanting to put in is a 600w rms alpine type r sub and an 800w rms amp l. Will this be enough for the 12v battery to handle.
     
  5. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
    2018 Prius c
    Model:
    Two
    Not sure if your Prius is built the same way as the US-spec models but take a look at your 12v battery. You may see a large plastic insulator assembly on the + terminal of the battery, and if it's like the US cars that contains a sensing shunt. Make your connection to the terminal on the far end of that plastic assembly, it (probably) faces the front of the car.

    Good luck!