Is it necessary to modify the sound insulation for the Alphard?
2 Answers
The Alphard can undergo sound insulation modifications. Advantages of car sound insulation: Noise reduction: Car sound insulation projects can effectively eliminate and block engine noise, vibrations, resonance between the body and doors, and friction sounds generated by road and air resistance during driving. This creates a quiet driving space and greatly improves driving comfort. Heat insulation: Sound insulation projects not only reduce noise but also effectively block the high temperatures generated by the engine, enhancing air conditioning efficiency. Body reinforcement: The sheet metal in non-critical areas such as the hood, doors, trunk, roof, and fenders is relatively thin. After installing sound insulation materials, the body becomes sturdier, improving passive safety coefficients in the event of a collision. Audio optimization: Audio systems, especially subwoofers installed in the rear, can cause trunk vibrations and reduced sound quality due to inadequate shock absorption. The car's structure may not withstand the impact of heavy bass, resulting in "squeaking" sounds. After sound insulation modifications, metal resonance in the body is eliminated, and good sound absorption is achieved, making the audio clearer, richer, and more powerful. Sources of car noise: Noise from engine operation, including fans, exhaust pipes, etc. Road noise, generally from bumps and gravel hitting the chassis. Tire noise, caused by friction and contact between the tires and the road. Wind noise and ambient noise, primarily airborne noise.
I've been driving the Alphard for over a year now, and the stock sound insulation is quite good. When driving in the city, you can barely hear any outside noise, and my kids sleep soundly in the back seat. However, if you frequently drive on highways or elevated roads, you'll notice that wind and tire noise become more pronounced, especially when speeds exceed 80 km/h. For sound insulation upgrades, you might consider adding soundproofing foam or sealing strips to enhance comfort and make long-distance drives more relaxing. Just make sure to choose high-quality materials, as poor-quality ones can emit unpleasant odors and affect health. The cost isn't low—expect to spend at least a few thousand. Also, be careful not to damage the original wiring during installation; safety comes first. If you're serious about upgrading, measure the decibel levels in your garage first—don't make changes blindly. The Alphard is already positioned as a luxury vehicle, so its sound insulation is decent, but if you're after perfection, it might be worth the investment. Overall, whether it's necessary depends on your driving habits and environment. If you often drive in noisy urban areas or frequently hit the highway, a minor upgrade could make a noticeable difference.
