Upgrading the sound system in your Grand Cherokee can dramatically improve your driving experience. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of a speaker upgrade on a 2023 Grand Cherokee Limited with the factory 6-speaker system, including key considerations and potential challenges.
Understanding the Grand Cherokee’s Sound System
The 2023 Grand Cherokee’s audio system has some unique characteristics to consider before upgrading:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The factory ANC system can interfere with aftermarket audio components. Disabling it is crucial for optimal sound quality. This can be achieved by disconnecting the red harness from the radio module behind the infotainment screen.
- Separate Dash and Door Speaker Signals: The dash speakers receive only high frequencies, while the front door speakers receive only mid-bass frequencies. This requires special attention when adding an amplifier, as using the front door speaker output alone will result in a lack of high-frequency content. A line output converter with a summing feature can combine these separate signals for a full-range audio signal to your amplifier.
- Radio Output Load: The factory radio requires a load on its speaker outputs to function correctly. When using a line output converter, load resistors must be installed between the converter and the radio to simulate the presence of speakers.
Amplifier and Subwoofer Installation
Adding amplifiers and subwoofers significantly enhances the audio experience:
- Battery Connection: The Grand Cherokee’s battery is located under the driver’s seat. Removing the seat provides easier access for wiring. Note that the seat bolts use reverse Torx fasteners and are tightly secured. Disconnecting the seat’s wiring harnesses is necessary for removal. Be aware that turning the car on with the seat removed can trigger warning lights and error messages.
- Bass Knob Placement: Consider mounting bass knobs discreetly. The panel in front of the gear shifter can be removed to allow for behind-the-panel mounting, providing a clean and accessible installation.
Door Speaker Replacement
Upgrading the door speakers is a relatively straightforward process:
- Speaker Size and Harnesses: All four doors utilize 6×9″ speakers. Using Metra 72-6514 speaker harnesses allows for a plug-and-play installation without cutting factory wiring.
- Door Panel Removal: The door panels are secured by two bolts and several clips. Careful removal reveals ample space for aftermarket speakers with greater depth.
Considerations and Challenges
While the Grand Cherokee’s interior is generally easy to disassemble, running wires correctly requires removing numerous panels. Careful planning and patience are essential. This particular installation, which included amplifiers for all speakers and dual 12″ subwoofers, resulted in a significantly louder and more powerful sound system.
Conclusion
A Grand Cherokee Speaker Upgrade can transform your vehicle’s audio performance. By understanding the nuances of the factory system and carefully planning your installation, you can achieve impressive results. While this project can be challenging for novice installers, the improvement in sound quality is well worth the effort.
