How to Find a Car Speaker Replacement

You may not know your woofers from your tweeters, but you know that the sound blasting from your car's speakers is sadly lacking. You can own the best stereo system, but poor speakers mean poor sound regardless. Factory-installed car speakers are notorious for flat sound and distortion. See how the simple act of replacing your car speaker system makes a big difference in your sound system.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide what you need. You may only want to replace the two-way speakers that came with your car, or you may want a more comprehensive system with additional speakers. Figure out your budget for new speakers. If you want to keep installation headaches and costs down, look at full-range speakers the same size as the ones you're replacing.

2. Listen to the sound quality from different systems. The best way to do this is to visit an electronics store or car audio specialty store. National chain electronic stores often provide a small room with different models you can listen to. A car audio specialist provides this also, plus personal attention and answers to all your questions.

3. Choose up to three speakers. Make certain that the speakers are compatible with your car stereo. A high power stereo system will blow out highly sensitive speakers. Match the speaker to the rest of the audio system.

4. Compare prices. Online audio store carry the largest selection with a wide range of prices, but they don't install speakers. Follow their provided instructions or locate someone to do the installation for you. If you're looking at budget-priced speakers, look for name brand speakers at a discount store. The selection is limited, but prices are good. Don't forget to factor in installation costs. An electronics store or car audio store offers the entire package, but often at a higher price.

5. Bid for the speakers you've been looking for on eBay when making the deal is part of the fun.

Tips & Warnings

• For easiest do-it-yourself installation, look at surface-mounted speakers.
• Purchase Bass Blockers to improve the sound of small speakers.
• Look for car stereo guides on Amazon to design your own audio system.
• If you install replacement speakers yourself, first disconnect the car battery's negative cable to avoid shock.

Resources

• Factory Car Stereo offers installation assistance.
• Find a guide to replacement speakers by car model.

[mgbdave]

on 6/9/2009 The OEM speakers that I want to replace are installed with a black adhesive as well as the 3 screws. How do I deal with this adhesive when replacing the speakers?