How to Change Car Speakers

So, your car speakers could use replacing. There are many benefits to new, high quality speakers. New speakers will produce a better sound quality and be able to tolerate a higher volume level. If you choose to install the speakers yourself, make sure that you are prepared by having all the materials handy, and by reading any warnings associated with this type of project.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver Panel popper New speakers Two wires about 3 inches long Two female spades per speaker Two wire taps per speaker Pliers

Instructions

1. Park your car on an even and open parking space.

2. Start removing the inner door panel by removing the visible screws in the door panel. Some cars may have snaps around the edge of the door panel. You may choose to use a panel popper to help in the removal of the panel. If you don't have this, you may use a pry bar from 6 to 8 inches. There is usually a plastic film on the inside of the panel. Slide this around if needed to aid you in removing the panel.

3. Grab the loose panel and work it off of the door. There may be wires you have to disconnect as they become visible. To do this, there may be a clip or button to press in order to disconnect the wires from the door. After this, the inner door panel should be free.

4. Remove the screws holding in the speaker using a screwdriver.

5. Hold the speaker by its frame or the cone and gently pull it out enough to see the wires that connect it to the door.

6. Disconnect the wires either by pressing a button or clip.

7. Prep the wires for your new speaker by taking the two pieces of short wire and attaching the female spade terminals to each wire on one end. The other ends of the wires will go into the wire tap, which is placed over one of the wires of the speaker harness of the car. Crimp the wire tap with the pliers.

8. Plug the female spade terminal of the positive harness wire into the positive lead in the speaker. Do the same for the negative.

9. Place the speaker into the door and screw back in using a screwdriver. If would be a good idea to turn on your car and test the speaker, before you put your door panel back on.

10. Replace the inner door panel. Replace all the screws and make sure that the panel is snapped into place.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep shop rags close by to avoid getting car upholstery dirty.

• Never cut wires or harnesses. Always disconnect the positive lead of the battery terminal before working on a car's electrical system. Check your manufacturer's guide before disconnecting, as some cars have an anti-theft device. Do not force the door panels to come off.