How to Install Speakers in a Jeep Cherokee

The Jeep Cherokee sport utility vehicle is equipped with a stereo radio and speakers at the factory. But if your speakers aren't working properly, or if you want to improve the sound of your stereo system by replacing them with better, higher-performance aftermarket speakers, you'll need to know how to install speakers in your Jeep Cherokee. Replacing the speakers in the vehicle involves taking apart door panels and the like, but if you can follow instructions and use basic tools, it's a job that's well within the reach of the average do-it-yourselfer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phillips Screwdriver Small Flat-Bladed Screwdriver Drill with 1/8-Inch Bit Sheet Metal Screws Torx T20 Driver

Front door speakers

1. Take out the two screws from below the armrest on the door with a Phillips screwdriver. Remove one Phillips screw from the trim around the door release.

2. Take out one Phillips screw from the upper front edge of the door panel, and one screw from below the door pull.

3. Take a small flat-bladed screwdriver and release the clip behind the window crank (if equipped with manual windows). If you have the power window option be sure to disconnect the wiring plugs from the back of the door panel when you remove it in the next step.

4. Pry outwards on the bottom and sides of the door panel with a panel tool to release the clips holding the panel in place. When the clips are loose, lift the panel up and off of the door proper.

5. Take out the two Phillips screws holding the speaker in place. Pull the speaker out, and unplug the connector on the back. Connect the new speaker to the wiring, and hold it in the opening to mark where the mounting tabs are. Drill small holes with a 1/8-inch drill bit in the marked spots and screw the new speaker into place.

Rear speakers

6. Pry around the edges of the speaker grille with your panel tool and release the clips that hold the grille in place.

7. Take out the two T20 Torx screws that hold the speaker in place. Pull the speaker out and disconnect the wiring plug.

8. Connect the new speaker to the wiring, and place it in the opening. Hold it in place with the screws you removed earlier.

9. Snap the speaker grille back in place.

Tips & Warnings

• When removing screws and nuts, have a small cup handy to place them in. This way you won't drop them or misplace them.

References

• Car Stereo Cookbook; Rumerich; 1999

Resources

• Panel tool
• Car speakers