How to Install Car Speakers

The newer model of vehicles with inbuilt sound speakers are not as magnificent as those that came with relatively late models. There are only a few car owners who are 100% satisfied with the sound, which is why most of them consider a quick upgrade of car speakers.

There are different types of car speakers that includes Tweeter, Super Tweeter, Midrange, Woofers and Subwoofers. Hence, it is easy to get confused when choosing between speaker sizes and quality amongst the myriad of options. All you can do is research – your car, how it uses speakers, and where they are located. You have to do your homework before you venture out to shop for speakers that suit your needs, to avoid getting scammed into buying the most expensive, low-quality ones. 

We have detailed important factors to consider when it comes to car speaker installation to help you out in the process.

INSTALLING CAR SPEAKERS

Here is the process detailed below on how to install car speakers, but first let’s have a look at the tools required to further the process:

WHAT TOOLS ARE REQUIRED FOR CAR SPEAKER INSTALLATION?

We have provided a list of automotive tools to buy below that you may need for installing car speakers. Since every car is different, you must check your vehicle’s manual to determine which tools you will need from the list.

• Various screwdrivers
• Allen wrenches
• Electrical tape
• Box cutter or small knife
• Soldering iron
• Socket wrench set
• Wire cutter and stripper
• Crimping tool
• Drill with screwdriver attachment

HOW TO INSTALL CAR SPEAKERS

The most important factor to consider when choosing car speakers is the size. It is because you will have to make sure you’re buying the right one that fits the make and model of your car. Car speaker installation depends on a few things including factory speaker location, mounting height and depth, as well as vehicle’s factory wiring. 

We have provided the directions on how to install car speakers below. However, you’re advised to read the given instructions in the manuals of the speaker and your vehicle.

1. First, disconnect the vehicle’s battery.
2. Proceed towards removing panels, grilles, and covers from the speakers. You might need a panel popping tool, a screwdriver, or anything similar to locate the speakers and remove them out. You might have to look under seats and at odd places.
3. Disconnect the speakers, keeping notes of wiring connections as well as any screws that you remove. You never know when you’ll have to reinstall the old speakers (or sell them).
4. Reconnect the battery, test the sound, and then fully install the new speakers. This is because you wouldn’t want to repeat the process just because you didn’t test it the first time.
5. After testing the speakers, disconnect the battery again and complete the screwing/mounting process.

In case when you want to install subwoofers or extra power to the speakers, you may need additional installation steps or an amplifier.

TYPES OF CAR SPEAKER INSTALLATION AND REPLACEMENT

REPLACING DASH SPEAKERS

When replacing dash speakers, you must have a 90-degree screwdriver to reach around toward the screws at the windshield. Dash speakers are easy to replace; all you have to do is remove the grilles, held down by screws or friction fittings.

Using a panel tool, carefully pry the grilles held down by friction fittings but make sure you don’t scratch or crack the surrounding dash. In other cases, you might have to remove the whole dash panel to replace the dash speakers, specifically if the grilles are secured by screws or plastic studs that may break if too much pressure is applied.

After removing the old speakers, use a wiring harness to attach the new speakers to the system. It is wise to use electrical tape for securing the connections because the dash is subject to temperature and extreme climates. If left unprotected, the wiring can deteriorate over time.

REPLACING REAR SPEAKERS

Changing rear speakers vary from car to car, while mostly it is quite straightforward. You only have to pry the grilles and swap out the speakers. In some vehicles, you may have to fold the setbacks down to remove them whereas in other cases, the whole interior panel from the rear deck must be removed.

REPLACING DOOR SPEAKERS

To replace door speakers, the front door panels must be removed using an appropriate tool such as the screwdriver. Keep in mind that some screw locations are tough to find; for instance, they may be behind a door handle or under cosmetic cover. Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully separate the panels from the door or use a panel tool to remove door handles. Moreover, keep on disconnecting any wiring you encounter along the way (for example, that of power door locks).

Installing car speakers is fairly easy if you know your way around. There are usually two pair of speakers, out of which it is recommended to replace both instead of just one. Simply remove the screws holding the speaker and bring it out from the door cavity. Now, connect the positive and negative wires to the speaker as it is labelled in the instruction manual. Secure the wires by wrapping them with a zip tie, using flush-cut pliers to trim the excess tie. This prevents damage from the power windows.

Reconnect the battery, activate the ignition, and turn on the audio system. Now, fix the new speakers into their place, and check if they are working. In case of any problem, troubleshoot it before reconnecting the door panel in the reverse order of instructions provided.

SOME TIPS TO REMEMBER

• Despite doing your homework and full research, it’s always best to perform a test bit before completing the car speaker installation process.
• In the case of installing subwoofers, there are additional steps to the installation process. You will have to review the locations and will need a standalone amplifier that sums up to overall costs.
• Be prepared to get a new head unit when you proceed with replacing speakers for a better audio system.

PRICE OF CAR SPEAKERS

Prices of car speakers may vary, given there are different types that come in different sizes with varying specifications. However, the starting price of car speakers in the UAE is AED 45. You can even buy used car speakers online as well as new one, but make sure they fit in your car’s specifications.

FAQs

HOW CAN I MAKE MY CAR DOOR SPEAKERS SOUND BETTER?

You can insulate the inside of door panels with sound-deadening materials apart from updating the speakers. This directs the sound back into the car instead of letting it escape. Additionally, the installation of new gaskets for each speaker is another good option. They ensure that no loose parts rattle or make noise.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING CAR SPEAKERS?

The size, of course. We have reiterated it enough that if you haven’t found the right size to fit, none of the high-quality speakers can bridge the loophole. After you have found the fit, focus next on the characteristics such as power output, cost, and installation requirements. 

Installing car speakers is one of the improvements you can make, either you are buying a used car in the UAE or a new one. This modification adds to your driving experience and makes used cars more comfortable, in terms of enjoying your time while driving. However, make sure you don’t go against the UAE car modification rules while car speaker installation.

Stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blogs for more car part installation and maintenance guides.