1999 Ford Explorer Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
1999 Ford Explorer Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
This page covers the factory speaker locations, original equipment sizes, and key upgrade notes for the 1999 Ford Explorer. Equipment can vary by trim, body style, or audio package, so the details here are meant to help you verify what is in your vehicle before choosing replacement speakers. Factory amplifier details should be checked against the specific trim and audio setup, and selected audio systems may also include a subwoofer if equipped.
Data verified by Nick Marchenko, PhD
Speaker Size Chart – 1999 Ford Explorer
Use this table as the main reference. Fitment depends on trim, factory audio package, mounting depth, and adapter availability.
| Location | Type | Factory Size | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front Door | Full-Range | 6 x 8 inch | |
| Rear Door | Full-Range | 6 x 8 inch | |
| Far-Rear Side Panels | Full-Range | 6 x 8 inch | |
| Far-Rear Side Panels | Subwoofer | 8 inch | if equipped |
Generic speaker location diagram. The table above shows the specific factory sizes for this vehicle. Exact location details may vary by body style and trim.
Speaker Count by Trim – 1999 Ford Explorer
Speaker count and audio equipment vary by trim and factory audio package. This table lists known configurations from our database.
| Trim | Speakers | Amplifier | Radio | Navigation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eddie Bauer 4dr 4x2 | 4 | std | – | – |
| Eddie Bauer 4dr 4x4 | 4 | opt | – | – |
| Eddie Bauer 4dr All-wheel Drive | 4 | opt | – | – |
| Limited 4dr 4x2 | 4 | std | – | – |
| Limited 4dr 4x4 | 4 | opt | – | – |
| Limited 4dr All-wheel Drive | 4 | opt | – | – |
| Sport 2dr 4x2 | 4 | opt | – | – |
| Sport 2dr 4x4 | 4 | opt | – | – |
| XL 4dr 4x2 | 4 | – | – | – |
| XL 4dr 4x4 | 4 | – | – | – |
| XLT 4dr 4x2 | 4 | opt | – | – |
| XLT 4dr 4x4 | 4 | opt | – | – |
| XLT 4dr All-wheel Drive | 4 | opt | – | – |
Data sourced from manufacturer specifications. Verify with the window sticker or dealer before ordering audio components.
Vehicle and Audio System Specifications
This block helps identify the vehicle and its audio system configuration for fitment decisions.
Body Style Audio Differences
This 1999 Ford Explorer uses the same core speaker layout across the model, but equipment can vary by body style and trim. Front and rear door speakers are listed at 6 x 8 inches, and far-rear side panel speakers may also be present. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package.
What Speakers Fit the 1999 Ford Explorer?
Aftermarket fitment should start with the factory speaker locations listed for this 1999 Ford Explorer, but diameter alone is not enough. Check mounting depth, bracket fit, connector type, and whether the vehicle has a premium or factory-amplified audio system. The listed factory locations use 6 x 8 inch full-range speakers, and far-rear side panels may also include an 8 inch subwoofer if equipped. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package.
Usually Safe Upgrades
- If your vehicle uses the front door location, a 6 x 8 inch full-range speaker is the factory size to match.
- If your vehicle uses the rear door location, a 6 x 8 inch full-range speaker is the factory size to match.
- If your vehicle uses the far-rear side panel location, a 6 x 8 inch full-range speaker is listed there as well.
- If your vehicle is equipped with the optional far-rear side panel subwoofer, confirm the 8 inch size before shopping for replacements.
Check Before Buying
- Measure mounting depth and compare it with the space behind each speaker location before ordering.
- Verify the connector style at each location, since factory wiring can vary by audio package.
- Confirm whether your Explorer has the optional factory amplifier or other audio upgrades, because that can affect speaker choice.
- Check whether the far-rear side panel opening is for a full-range speaker or the optional subwoofer if equipped.
Installation Notes
The 1999 Ford Explorer uses 6 x 8 inch full-range speakers in the front doors, rear doors, and far-rear side panels. Some vehicles may also have an 8 inch factory subwoofer in the far-rear side panels if equipped, so verify the audio setup before ordering parts. Panel removal is required at each speaker location, and care should be taken with clips, trim pieces, and any wiring routed behind the panels. Speaker depth should be checked before installation because clearance can vary by location and audio package. In many cases, mounting adapters may be needed to match the factory openings, and a harness adapter can help avoid cutting the original wiring. If your vehicle has the factory subwoofer, confirm the replacement size and enclosure fit before starting. After installation, test balance, fade, and bass response to make sure every speaker is playing correctly.
Moderate difficulty, since panel removal and fitment checks are important and factory audio equipment can vary by trim and package.
Common Mistakes When Replacing Speakers
Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when replacing the factory audio in a 1999 Ford Explorer.
- Buying based only on the body-style label instead of checking actual speaker locations on the vehicle.
- Assuming every trim has the same factory audio setup instead of verifying the trim and audio package, since amplifier and radio details can vary.
- Skipping a check of speaker size and mounting depth before ordering, even though the listed locations use 6 x 8 inch full-range speakers and fitment can still depend on depth and bracket space.
- Ignoring the factory connector style and planning for an adapter or wiring changes only after the old speaker is removed.
- Overlooking the far-rear side panel area and the 8 inch subwoofer if equipped, which may be present on some vehicles and should be confirmed before buying parts.
- Reassembling the panels before testing the new speakers, because it is much easier to catch wiring or polarity problems while everything is still accessible.
Generation & Model Family
The 1999 Ford Explorer belongs to the Second generation (UN105/150) (1999–2001) family. Nearby model years often share similar speaker locations and audio layouts, but exact fitment can vary by trim and audio package – verify before ordering.
Recommended Upgrade Path
The 1999 Ford Explorer uses a simple factory speaker layout, and equipment can vary by trim and audio package. That makes it a good candidate for targeted upgrades that improve the sound you hear most often without overcomplicating the install. Start with the front stage, then build out bass, volume, or a cleaner factory-style finish based on your goal.
| Goal | Best Upgrade Path | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Better clarity | Upgrade the front door speakers first, then add tweeters if equipped or use a front-stage setup that improves midrange and high-frequency detail. | The front speakers do the most work for vocals and instrument detail, so improving that area gives the biggest jump in clarity. |
| More bass | If the factory 8-inch subwoofer is equipped, treat it as trim-dependent and consider an aftermarket subwoofer upgrade or added bass system to strengthen low-end output. | A dedicated bass upgrade will add the low-frequency impact that full-range speakers alone usually cannot provide. |
| Louder sound | Properly matched speakers and amplifier integration can improve volume and reduce distortion. Verify factory amp or premium system integration before adding aftermarket amplifiers. | Higher output works best when the speakers and amplification are matched correctly, especially in vehicles where audio equipment can vary by trim. |
| Budget improvement | Replace the front door speakers first with same-size replacement speakers and the correct mounting brackets. | This gives the most noticeable improvement for the money because the front speakers handle the most important part of the music. |
| Factory look | Use same-size replacement speakers with the correct mounting brackets and harness adapters for a clean install that preserves the factory wiring and appearance. | This approach keeps the cabin looking original while still improving sound quality. |
Mounting Adapters and Wiring
The same nominal diameter does not guarantee a direct mount. Before ordering, confirm:
- Speaker depth: Aftermarket speakers often have larger magnets – measure available depth at each location.
- Mounting brackets: Door locations typically need a bracket or spacer to clear the window regulator and achieve correct mounting depth.
- Wiring harness adapters: Use a plug-and-play harness adapter to preserve factory wiring.
- Tweeter mounting cups: Replacing OEM tweeters may require surface-mount cups or brackets depending on the location.
- Factory or premium amplified systems: If the vehicle has a premium or factory-amplified audio system, confirm how the factory radio, amplifier, and speakers are connected before adding aftermarket amplifiers. Depending on the setup, a line output converter, DSP, integration harness, or professional installation may be needed.
- Connector type: Factory connectors vary by trim and model year – confirm compatibility before splicing or using an adapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size are the front door speakers in a 1999 Ford Explorer?
The front door speakers are 6 x 8 inch full-range units. This model year uses direct speaker data for the vehicle, so that size applies to the front door location.
What size are the rear speakers in a 1999 Ford Explorer?
The rear door speakers are 6 x 8 inch full-range units. Far-rear side panel speakers are also listed as 6 x 8 inch full-range on this model.
Does the 1999 Ford Explorer have a factory subwoofer?
A factory 8 inch subwoofer is listed in the far-rear side panels if equipped. Availability can vary by trim and audio package, so it should be verified for the specific vehicle.
Do I need mounting adapters for speaker replacement?
Mounting adapters may be needed depending on the speaker design you choose. The factory openings are listed as 6 x 8 inch, so check the adapter and speaker fit before ordering.
Can I replace the speakers without replacing the radio?
Yes, speaker replacement can be done without changing the radio. The factory radio setup varies by trim, so matching the new speakers to the existing system is still important.
How do I know if my 1999 Ford Explorer has a factory amplifier?
Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package. Some trims list an amplifier as standard or optional, while others show no amplifier data in the trim table.