
While a standard computer fan can technically move air over a car amplifier, it is generally not a reliable or recommended long-term cooling solution. The primary issue is the 12-volt DC power requirement in a car. Computer fans typically run on 5 or 12 volts but are designed for the stable, clean power of a computer power supply. A vehicle's electrical system is notoriously "dirty," with voltage spikes and significant noise that can quickly burn out a delicate computer fan. Furthermore, computer fans are not built to withstand the extreme temperatures, vibration, and moisture found in a car's interior or trunk.
For effective and safe cooling, a fan designed specifically for automotive use is the superior choice. These fans are engineered to handle the harsh environment, are often more durable, and can be directly wired into the amplifier's remote turn-on circuit, ensuring they only run when the stereo is on.
Here’s a quick comparison of the key factors:
| Factor | Computer Fan | Automotive Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Compatibility | Designed for stable 5V/12V; sensitive to spikes. | Built for noisy 12V automotive systems. |
| Durability & Environment | Not resistant to extreme heat, cold, or vibration. | Housing and bearings are built to withstand automotive conditions. |
| Power Draw | Varies, but not optimized for a car battery. | Typically designed for low amp draw on vehicle electrical systems. |
| Ease of Installation | Requires custom wiring, often needing a separate relay. | Often includes vehicle-specific connectors or simple two-wire setup. |
| Noise Level | Can be very quiet, but not a priority for car audio. | May be slightly louder, but focused on moving air efficiently. |
| Cost | Often inexpensive initially. | Slightly higher initial cost, but better long-term value. |
The installation process itself is another hurdle. You'd need to solder connections, likely use a relay to protect the fan from the amp's power draw, and find a secure way to mount it. For the minimal cost difference, a purpose-built automotive cooling fan saves time, ensures reliability, and protects your amplifier investment from a cooling system failure.

I tried it once in my old hatchback. Yeah, it worked for a few weeks. I spliced it into the amp's remote wire. But then one day, after a long drive, it just quit. I think the summer heat got to it. The amp was fine, but the fan was toast. It’s just not worth the hassle. For twenty bucks, you can get a small fan made for cars that’ll actually last. Save yourself the trouble.


