How to Replace Speakers in a Car Door

Car door speakers are either factory-installed or aftermarket additions. You sometimes need to replace one of these, and it's a repair the do-it-yourself handyperson should be able to perform in a short period of time with a minimum of tools.

Things You'll Need

  • Phillips-head screwdriver Torx driver Socket set
  • Determine if the speaker is original equipment or an aftermarket installation. Generally, aftermarket speakers will be held in the door by a speaker grille that protrudes from the door, and may have screws visible.

  • Remove any screws on the perimeter of the speaker grille. If there are no visible screws, but the grille protrudes from the door panel, gently pull on the edge of the grille to remove it. Don't force it if it does not remove without pulling the door panel with it. Skip to Step 4 if the grille cannot be removed.

  • Remove the screws you exposed by removing the grille (if that was possible), and remove the speaker from the door.

  • Remove the window crank handle from the door. This will be held in place by either a screw in the center of the handle or a lock ring on the back of the handle where it enters the door.

  • Remove the door handle. This will be held on either by a center screw, a screw in the bezel, a lock ring on the back of the handle, or a lock tab on the bezel.

  • Remove any screws holding the armrest to the door.

  • Check around the perimeter of the door panel and remove any screws. Carefully check in the pile of the carpeted section if your door panel has one.

  • Try lifting up on the door panel to see if it slides off. Some panels use retainers that can be removed in this manner. If no movement is noted, gently pry the door panel away from the door. Use a flat tool, such as a very stiff putty knife, for this, inserting it every few inches around the door.

  • Remove the screws that were hidden behind the door panel and remove the speaker.

  • Install a new speaker.

  • Reinstall the door panel. Be sure to first line up any retainers with their hole, then push them in one at a time until all have been inserted in the door.

  • Reinstall the door handle, armrest and window handle.