2013 Ford Explorer Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
2013 Ford Explorer Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
This page covers the factory speaker layout, common audio equipment, and upgrade notes for the 2013 Ford Explorer. The fifth-generation Explorer was offered with multiple body styles, and equipment can vary by trim, body style, or audio package. Some models include optional tweeters, a center channel, or a subwoofer, while speaker count and amplifier setup also change across trims.
Data verified by Nick Marchenko, PhD
Speaker Size Chart – 2013 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 | Tweeter | 1 inch | if equipped |
| Front Door | Full-Range | 6 x 9 inch | |
| Dash Corner | Center Channel | 3.5 inch | if equipped |
| Rear Door | Full-Range | 6.5 inch | |
| Far-Rear Side Panels | Subwoofer | 8 inch | if equipped |
| Rear Pillar | Mid-Range | 3.5 inch |
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 – 2013 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limited 4dr 4x4 | 12 | std | – | – |
| Limited 4dr Front-wheel Drive | 12 | std | – | – |
| Sport 4dr 4x4 | 12 | std | – | – |
| Base 4dr 4x4 | 6 | – | – | – |
| Base 4dr Front-wheel Drive | 6 | – | – | – |
| XLT 4dr 4x4 | 6 | opt | – | – |
| XLT 4dr Front-wheel Drive | 6 | 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 model is offered in multiple body styles, and equipment can vary by configuration. Since no body-style-specific speaker data is listed here, the main audio differences to watch for are factory speaker count, amplifier availability, and whether optional tweeters or a subwoofer are included. Always verify the exact audio package for the vehicle being upgraded.
What Speakers Fit the 2013 Ford Explorer?
Aftermarket fitment should start with the factory speaker locations listed above, 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 2013 Ford Explorer uses different speaker layouts depending on equipment level, so the safest match depends on the exact location and trim. An 8-inch subwoofer may also be present if equipped, and selected audio systems can include additional speakers.
Usually Safe Upgrades
- If your vehicle uses the front door 6 x 9 inch location, that is the main size to match for replacement speakers.
- If your vehicle uses the rear door 6.5 inch location, look for speakers made for that opening and confirm depth before ordering.
- If your vehicle uses the rear pillar 3.5 inch location, choose a speaker that fits the smaller opening and the factory mounting style.
- If your vehicle uses the front door 1 inch tweeter location, replacement tweeters should match the factory opening and wiring.
- If your vehicle uses the far-rear side panel 8 inch subwoofer location, match the size only if that equipment is present on your vehicle.
Check Before Buying
- Verify the exact trim and audio package, since speaker count and amplifier setup can vary from 6 to 12 speakers.
- Measure mounting depth and opening shape before buying, especially for the front door and rear pillar locations.
- Confirm whether your vehicle has the optional tweeter, center channel, or subwoofer locations before selecting replacement parts.
- Check the connector style and any factory amplifier details so the new speakers match the existing system.
- Use the factory speaker location list as your guide, but compare it against the actual vehicle before ordering.
Installation Notes
The 2013 Ford Explorer uses a mixed speaker layout, so installation can vary by trim and audio package. Front door 6 x 9 inch speakers, rear door 6.5 inch speakers, and rear pillar 3.5 inch mid-range speakers are listed in the data, with optional tweeters, a center channel, and an 8 inch subwoofer if equipped. Plan on removing interior panels carefully and checking clip locations before prying. Wiring should be verified before connecting anything, especially on trims with factory amplification or upgraded audio. Speaker depth matters in the doors and rear locations, so compare the new speaker’s mounting depth and magnet size before purchase. Mounting adapters may be needed for a secure fit, and harness adapters can help avoid cutting factory wiring. If your vehicle has the factory subwoofer, confirm enclosure and wiring compatibility before replacing it. After installation, test every speaker position at low volume first, then check balance, fade, and any center or subwoofer output.
Moderate difficulty; trim and audio package differences mean careful verification is important before starting.
Common Mistakes When Replacing Speakers
When shopping for 2013 Ford Explorer speakers, the biggest problems usually come from assuming every trim and audio package uses the same setup.
- Buying based only on the body-style label instead of checking actual speaker locations on the vehicle.
- Ignoring trim and audio package differences, since speaker count ranges from 6 to 12 and factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package.
- Assuming the front door tweeters or the far-rear side panel subwoofer are present on every vehicle, when those components are only listed if equipped.
- Skipping mounting depth and connector checks before ordering, which can lead to a mismatch even when the speaker size looks correct.
- Replacing speakers without testing polarity and sound output before reassembly, which can leave a wiring issue hidden until the panels are back on.
- Overlooking the rear pillar and dash corner locations, since the full speaker layout should be matched to the vehicle before buying parts.
Generation & Model Family
The 2013 Ford Explorer belongs to the Fifth generation (U502) (2011–2015) 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 2013 Ford Explorer offers a wide range of factory audio setups, so the best upgrade path depends on the trim and audio package. Some models use a basic 6-speaker layout, while others add more speakers and factory amplification. Start with the front stage if you want the biggest improvement in everyday listening, then build from there based on your goals.
| Goal | Best Upgrade Path | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Better clarity | Upgrade the front door speakers first and add better tweeters if equipped, then consider the rear speakers after the front stage is dialed in. | Cleaner front-stage speakers usually make vocals, dialogue, and instruments easier to hear. Since tweeters are listed on some versions, improving the front stage can deliver the most noticeable clarity gain. |
| More bass | If the factory subwoofer is equipped, evaluate it carefully before replacing it, then add an aftermarket subwoofer solution to strengthen low-end output. | The Explorer may include an 8-inch subwoofer depending on trim or audio package, so bass upgrades should start with what is already installed. A dedicated aftermarket sub can add deeper, stronger low frequencies. |
| Louder sound | Use properly matched speakers and amplifier integration to improve volume and reduce distortion, and verify factory amp or premium system integration before adding aftermarket amplifiers. | Higher output works best when the speakers and amplification are matched to the vehicle’s audio setup. Because factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package, integration matters before adding more power. |
| Budget improvement | Replace the front door speakers first with same-size replacement speakers and the correct mounting brackets, then upgrade the rear speakers later if needed. | The front doors handle the most important listening position, so they usually give the best value for the money. Starting there keeps the upgrade focused and avoids spending on less noticeable changes first. |
| 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. It also helps the new speakers fit the existing locations without changing the visual character of the interior. |
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 2013 Ford Explorer?
The front door uses 6 x 9 inch full-range speakers. A 1 inch tweeter may also be present if equipped.
What size are the rear speakers in a 2013 Ford Explorer?
The rear door speakers are 6.5 inch full-range units. Some audio setups may also include a 3.5 inch rear pillar mid-range speaker.
Does the 2013 Ford Explorer have a factory subwoofer?
Some trims may include an 8 inch factory subwoofer in the far-rear side panels if equipped. Subwoofer availability can vary by audio package.
Do I need mounting adapters to replace the factory speakers?
Mounting adapters may be needed depending on the speaker location and the replacement speaker depth or pattern. Check the specific door or panel location before ordering parts.
Can I replace the speakers without replacing the radio?
Yes, speaker replacement can be done without changing the radio. The factory radio can stay in place, but sound results will depend on the trim and audio system.
Does the 2013 Ford Explorer have a factory amplifier?
Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package. Some trims list an amplifier, while others do not, so the audio setup is not the same across the model.