Last Updated on: October 7, 2022
I love taking lengthy drives around my neighborhood whenever I need to clear my mind, blasting my favorite music via my car speakers. And that was a fantastic mood-lifter until I experienced the subwoofer’s bass effect, which took me to cloud nine.
Hear this…
I’ve been in love with this device ever since and have purchased several brands of subwoofers just to get the perfect one for my car.
Thus, if you’re like me and looking to get a subwoofer for your vehicle, this review is for you! The Cerwin-Vega VPAS12ST subwoofer ranks first on my list for its quality and longevity.
Top 7 Spare Tire Subwoofer Reviews
The seven best spare tire subwoofers most suited for producing superb bass tones are reviewed and curated here, alongside their pros and downsides, to enable you to make the best selection when choosing your subwoofers.
1. Cerwin-Vega VPAS12ST – Best Spare Tire Subwoofer
Cerwin-Vega VPAS12ST has gained massive market recognition and acceptance for its high quality and durability. Thus, it’s no surprise it’s ranking first on our list.
This powered subwoofer comes with a built-in amplifier to produce solid bass beats that make most music lovers shout in glee. Because it’s a compact subwoofer, you can easily fit it into your car’s spare tire or underneath the car’s seat.
However, the price might be on the high side. Still, considering the quality of the device, you should go for it, provided you have extra cash to spare.
Features
- 5 pounds weight
- 600W maximum power output
- 150W RMS power output
- 20Hz-150Hz frequency response
- 6 x 11.1 x 3.15 inches in dimension
Pros
- Compact design
- Easy installation
- Built-in amplifier
- Quality bass boost
Cons
- Costly
Summary
Suppose you have enough cash to invest in a good-quality subwoofer for your vehicle. In that case, I suggest you purchase the Cerwin-Vega VPAS12ST subwoofer. It’s durable, stable, and produces impressive clean bass beats.
2. JBL BassPro Hub – Best Subwoofer With The Least Cargo Space
If you’re looking for a subwoofer that doesn’t take up space in the car, then the JBL BassPro Hub subwoofer is your best bet.
Asides from this, the class D type of built-in amplifier ensures that this powered subwoofer produces a solid sound rich in quality bass tones. It’s also simple to install as it comes with all the necessary accessories you need to get the job done.
Because of the amplifier, you’re guaranteed no interference during use, and you don’t have to fear your device overheating.
JBL BassPro Hub also comes with a wired remote control that allows you to adjust the settings to deliver sounds of your preference.
Features
- 6 pounds weight
- 30Hz-150Hz frequency response
- 400W maximum power output
- 200W RMS power output
- 73 x 16.73 x 9.25 inches in dimension
Pros
- Quick and simple installation
- It comes with a remote control
- Produces clear and clean bass sounds
- It takes up little car space
- Built-in amplifier
Cons
- Pricey
- No in-line fuse
Summary
JBL BassPro Hub subwoofer is your surest choice if you want a device that takes little car space without compromising on the quality of bass boost it produces.
3. JBL BassPro Hub – Best Subwoofer With The Least Cargo Space
While the first two subwoofers on my list have prices on the high side, the Rockville Rock Ghost subwoofer is an affordable option for most music enthusiasts with little budget. It’s shocking how it offers excellent quality and removes unpleasant sounds even at such a cost.
One appealing feature of this powered subwoofer is the clean bass sounds it produces without any form of noise or vibrations.
It also comes with a lengthy wired remote that enables you to adjust the device settings to suit your desires. However, the reliability and durability of this device might not be the best out there. Still, it is sure to last you for its money’s worth.
Features
- 14 pounds weight
- 800W maximum power output
- 20Hz-250Hz frequency response
- 5 x 18.3 x 12.4 inches in dimension
- 200W RMS output
Pros
- Affordable
- It doesn’t take up too much car space
- It fits easily into the spare tire
- Wired remote control
Cons
- Not suitable for installing underneath the car’s seat
Summary
As a great music enthusiast on a tight budget, purchasing the Rockville Rock Ghost subwoofer would help you save costs and enjoy the quality bass sounds it produces as you drive along the lane.
4. Recoil RST11 – Best Compact Size Spare Tire Subwoofer
Having the description as one of the smallest subwoofers available on the market, Recoil RST11 is known for its ability to deliver strong punchy bass sounds. This could be attributed to the fact that it comes with a built-in amplifier.
It can be easily installed into your spare tire without much stress, provided you know what you’re doing. It’s also pocket-friendly and gives you great value for your money. Thus, you don’t have to worry about poor-quality sounds.
You will find a ‘quick release button’ attached to it that enables you to fix and remove it from the spare tire easily.
If you don’t like the bass sound, you can adjust it with the remote control to your preference.
Features
- 23 pounds weight
- 20Hz – 150Hz frequency response
- 10000W maximum power output
- 200W RMS power output
- 25 x 16 x 8.75 inches in dimension
Pros
- Quick installation
- Small and compact size
- Built-in amplifier
- It comes with a quick-release button
- Remote control
- Affordable
Cons
- No amp wire kit
Summary
If you desire a handy subwoofer that can easily fit into the spare tire of your car, then I suggest you purchase the Recoil RST11. It’s small yet competent at delivering amazing sound.
5. CDT Audio SUB-15H – Best Subwoofer In Durability
This is one of the moderately priced subwoofers on the market. CDT Audio SUB-15H boasts high durability because of the quality cast aluminum casing used in building it. Thus, you’re indeed getting your money’s worth.
The package includes accessories and guides that make the installation into spare tire and audio systems extremely easy. However, because of its big size, ensure it’s similar to your car’s spare tire before purchase.
Unfortunately, this device isn’t as powerful as other subwoofers found on the market, but this doesn’t mean it can’t boost your audio systems or produce extra bass tones.
Features
- 40Hz-150Hz frequency response
- 380W maximum power output
- Dual 5.3 x 8.4 inches woofers
Pros
- Quick installation
- Affordable
- Durable
Cons
- Less powerful performance
- Big size; thus, not a sure fit for most spare tires
Summary
The CDT Audio SUB-15H subwoofer is an excellent choice if you value durability. However, you should note that its performance is subpar compared to other subwoofers in the market.
6. Seismic Audio-Hide-A-Bump88 – Best Budget Option
If you want to spend less on getting a new bass option, you should opt for the Seismic Audio-Hide-A-Bump88 subwoofer. It’s one of the most affordable subwoofers available, making it the best budget option.
With the built-in amplifier and dual woofers, this powered subwoofer produces a great sound that will get you nodding your head to the beats. It also comes with necessary accessories that make installation into a spare tire easy.
The remote control allows you to adjust the woofer’s settings to your preference. It also has an automatic shut-off feature when there is no music signal.
Features
- 17.1 pounds weight
- 40Hz-150Hz frequency response
- 400W maximum power output
- 14 x 11 x 6 inches depth dimensions
Pros
- Easy installation
- Automatic shut-off
- Remote control
- Affordable
- Built-in amplifier
Cons
- Subpar performance
Summary
Suppose you’re on a tight budget and want a subwoofer. Then, I suggest you opt for the Seismic Audio-Hide-A-Bump88. It’s pocket-friendly yet quality enough to give great bass tones.
7. Gravity Warzone WZ10D4-1 – Best Lightweight Subwoofer
The Gravity Warzone WZ10D4-1 brand is pretty famous in the market because of its quality device and the decently affordable price tags they offer. Thus, if you’re budget conscious, you can still boost your car’s audio systems with this sub.
There is also a cone woofer feature that offers accurate bass sound. When you carry the subwoofer, you will notice that it is lightweight.
Even better, it provides excellent quality sound and adjustable input sensitivity that is definitely a fantastic addition to any car.
Features
- 13.82 pounds weight
- 1200W maximum power output
- 40 – 500Hz frequency response
- 400W RMS power output
- 11.81 x 11.65 x 5.87 inches dimension
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Quality bass sound
- Quick installation
Cons
- Less durable
Summary
Gravity Warzone WZ10D4-1 is a great subwoofer with a reasonable price. Thus, if you want a sub that doesn’t compromise on the bass sound quality while still retaining a budget-friendly price and a lightweight, I recommend you go for this brand.
Factors To Consider Before Purchasing A Best Spare Tire Subwoofer
When shopping for your spare tire subwoofer, many brands are available on the market that could confuse you. To avoid making mistakes when investing in this particular device, there are certain factors you must consider. They include:
1. Price
Your budget regarding car electronics should be a guiding factor when making any purchase. There are several subwoofers available that would suit your demands. One good thing is that even the more affordable subwoofers also offer great quality. So, you don’t have to break the bank to get quality spare tire subwoofers.
The brands I reviewed above include the expensive, mid-priced, and affordable options you could choose from depending on your budget.
2. Size
Remember, a subwoofer is intended not to take up any cargo space while offering you quality bass tones. Thus, if the subwoofer you plan on purchasing is not doing this, you have to let it go.
The size and dimensions of the subwoofer are essential. You should get one with a size that perfectly fits your car’s tire well or other parts without modifications or difficulties.
3. Bass Quality
The sole reason you’re getting a subwoofer is to enhance your music quality, to produce clean bass tones. Therefore, when purchasing a subwoofer, you should look for one with a built-in amplifier. These types produce powerful, punchy bass beats.
Subwoofers with amplifiers also ensure you do not experience any interference when listening to your music.
4. Installation
While most people think you have to call in professional help to install a subwoofer, this isn’t necessarily true because there are specific subwoofers designed to enable you to install them independently. So, such devices are what you should purchase – the ones that come with all the supporting installation hardware and a guide manual.
This prevents you from incurring more expenses because you get to install your device without stress correctly. Therefore, if you’re interested in seeing how you could install your newly bought subwoofer into your car, in that case, you should watch this video:
5. Build
Sometimes, a meager price could lure you into purchasing a subwoofer made with poor-quality materials. Go for one built with cast aluminum when checking out various spare tire subwoofers to get. They are known for their durability and longevity.
This is important because investing in a device, no matter how little, and it gives out after a few months can be saddening. Thus, it would be best to always go for one with high quality and stability, irrespective of the price range.
And that’s why in this article, I have carefully curated some top brands that offer a mix of affordability and durability.
Pro Auto Thought: You might want to push your car amp’s limit by adding SPL subs. Read this article for more information — Best SPL Subwoofer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Can A Spare Tire Subwoofer Last?
The lifespan of a subwoofer depends on the quality of the device you purchased. However, the maintenance and usage of the subwoofer can also influence how long it lasts. Top-quality spare tire subwoofers should last between 4 to 8 years provided you carefully follow the manufacturer’s guide on its maintenance and care.
What Does A Subwoofer Do?
Listening to your favorite song without a subwoofer installed in your car should be considered a crime. Subwoofers or subs are specially designed speakers intended to reproduce low-pitched audio notes known as bass or sub-bass. This makes them pretty popular among music lovers as they make any song sound better with more tone clarity.
Most times, subwoofers are intended to augment the performance of other speakers present in your car, thus, improving the overall efficiency of the audio systems.
How Do I Detect A Faulty Spare Tire Subwoofer?
Even the best quality spare tire subwoofer tends to go bad over time. Therefore, two specific signs you should be on the lookout for if you suspect your subwoofer is faulty — distortion in sound quality and no sound output. The former might signify a partially faulty device while the latter means your subwoofer is completely blown.
Where Else Can I Install A Spare Tire Subwoofer?
Naturally, you are expected to install your subwoofer into the car spare tire well. However, you can fit it into other parts of your car because of its compact size, say underneath the rear speaker or seat, trunk space, or head unit. When installing a spare tire subwoofer, your major aim is to ensure that wherever you choose doesn’t take up cargo space.
Conclusion
As I previously stated, if you enjoy music as much as I do and like to blast it loud and clear as you drive, a subwoofer is a must-have. It provides you with clear and amazing bass beats that will rekindle your love for your favorite song.
Therefore, if you’re looking for a subwoofer, I recommend the Cerwin-Vega VPAS12ST subwoofer. This device provides excellent value for the money. The bass notes are of exceptional quality. Furthermore, it’s built with quality material, so you can count on it to last long when you use this brand.