Where is the shaker 500 amp on a 2005 Mustang?
The amplifier for the Shaker 500 audio system in a 2005 Mustang is located in the trunk, mounted on the inner side wall behind a removable plastic panel near the rear wheel well. It’s a separate unit from the radio and is accessed by pulling back the trunk lining.
Locating the Shaker 500 amplifier
Use these steps to find the amp in most 2005 Mustangs equipped with Shaker 500.
- Open the trunk and inspect the side walls for a plastic access panel or trim cover.
- Remove the relevant portion of the trunk lining to expose the side wall behind the wheel well.
- Detach the panel or cover that shields a small rectangular black module.
- Identify the amplifier by looking for a module with Ford or Shaker labeling and its wiring harnesses connected to the vehicle’s power and speakers.
- If you don’t see it on one side, check the opposite side; some builds place the amp on the other side or behind a deck cover.
Once located, you can access the amplifier for inspection, testing, or replacement. Always disconnect the vehicle battery before handling electrical components to avoid shorts or shocks.
Common issues and quick checks
If the Shaker 500 amp isn’t powering up or producing sound, perform these checks to diagnose typical problems.
- Check the main power fuse in the trunk fuse box; look for a fuse labeled SHAKER or related to the audio system.
- Inspect the ground connection from the amp to the vehicle chassis for cleanliness and tightness.
- Examine the amplifier’s wiring harnesses for corrosion, frayed wires, or loose connectors.
- Verify the remote turn-on wire from the head unit is functioning and delivering a signal to the amp.
- If available, test with a known-good amp or swap components to isolate whether the issue lies with the amp, speakers, or head unit.
Addressing blown fuses, loose connections, or water intrusion (from a failing trunk seal) often resolves many Shaker 500 amplifier problems. If issues persist, consider professional diagnosis to avoid further damage.
Summary
Where is the factory amplifier located?
The location of a factory amplifier varies by car model, but common places include under a front or rear seat, behind the dashboard, or in the trunk. To find it, look for a box with a large wire harness, often in one of these areas, and check for premium audio badging (like Bose or JBL) on the doors or radio, which indicates a factory-amplified system.
Common locations
- Under a seat: Many manufacturers place the amplifier under a front or rear seat. In some trucks or SUVs, it's more likely to be under the front passenger seat or under the rear seat on one side.
- Behind the dashboard: Amplifiers can be found behind the glove box or to the left of the steering column, particularly in older or some GM models.
- In the trunk: German cars, and some other vehicles, frequently have the amplifier in the trunk.
- Under the center console: In certain models, especially from Ford and GM, the amplifier is located under the center console.
You can watch this video to learn how to identify if your car has a factory amplified audio system: 1mSonic ElectronixYouTube · May 3, 2016
How to find it
- Check for brand names: Look for speaker grilles or trim with brand names like Bose, Harman Kardon, JBL, or Infinity to confirm that your car has a separate amplifier system.
- Look for a box with a large wire harness: Once you've identified a likely area, search for a metal box with one or more large wire harnesses plugged into it.
- Inspect the floor sills: Wires running the length of the car, often hidden in the door sill trim, can indicate an amplifier's location.
- Use a wiring diagram: The most accurate way to find the specific location is to consult the vehicle's wiring diagram or a car audio installer's guide for your make and model.
What is the difference between shaker 500 and shaker 1000?
Shaker 500 system: Adds two 8" dual voice coil woofers located at the mid-line of each door, powered by two amplifiers located in the driver's kick panel. Shaker 1000 system: Adds two 10" dual voice coil subs in a trunk-mounted enclosure that's powered by four amps (one per voice coil) behind the enclosure.
Where is the ECU on a 2005 Mustang?
2005-Current Mustangs
Starting in 2005, Ford moved the Mustang's computer out of the kick panel and located it on the passenger side of the engine compartment. It is easy to spot as soon as you open the hood by looking in the front left corner of the engine bay. There is a white decal on the computer with the ECU code.
Where is the amp on a 2002 Ford Mustang?
The amplifier in a 2002 Ford Mustang Convertible GT is typically located under the passenger side carpet or behind the kick panel. To access it, remove the carpet or panel carefully. Check for loose wiring harnesses or corroded connectors causing audio problems.
