2017 Ford Explorer Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
2017 Ford Explorer Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
This page covers the factory speaker layout for the 2017 Ford Explorer, along with the key audio equipment details that matter before planning an upgrade. Speaker and amplifier setups can vary by trim, body style, or audio package, so the exact system should be matched to the vehicle’s build. Use this guide to identify the locations, understand the factory configuration, and compare upgrade options with confidence.
Data verified by Nick Marchenko, PhD
Speaker Size Chart – 2017 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 – 2017 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 | 390W | SiriusXM AM/FM/HD/Satellite, seek-scan | ✓ |
| Limited 4dr Front-wheel Drive | 12 | 390W | SiriusXM AM/FM/HD/Satellite, seek-scan | ✓ |
| Platinum 4dr 4x4 | 12 | 500W premium | SiriusXM AM/FM/HD/Satellite, seek-scan | ✓ |
| Sport 4dr 4x4 | 12 | 390W | SiriusXM AM/FM/HD/Satellite, seek-scan | ✓ |
| Base 4dr 4x4 | 6 | – | AM/FM/Satellite-prep, seek-scan | – |
| Base 4dr Front-wheel Drive | 6 | – | AM/FM/Satellite-prep, seek-scan | – |
| XLT 4dr 4x4 | 6 | – | SiriusXM AM/FM/Satellite, seek-scan | ✓ |
| XLT 4dr Front-wheel Drive | 6 | – | SiriusXM AM/FM/Satellite, seek-scan | ✓ |
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, the main audio differences to verify are the factory speaker count, amplifier setup, and whether optional tweeters or a subwoofer are included. Rear speaker placement may also vary by audio package.
What Speakers Fit the 2017 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 uses a premium or factory-amplified audio system. This 2017 Ford Explorer can use different speaker layouts depending on equipment, so the safest match is based on the exact location and audio package. Selected audio systems may also include an 8-inch subwoofer if equipped.
Usually Safe Upgrades
- If your vehicle uses the front door 6 x 9 inch location, choose an aftermarket speaker built for that size and verify depth before buying.
- If your vehicle uses the rear door 6.5 inch location, look for a 6.5 inch replacement that matches the factory mounting pattern and connector style.
- If your vehicle uses the 1 inch front door tweeter location, replacement tweeters should be matched carefully to the factory opening and audio system.
- If your vehicle uses the 3.5 inch dash corner center channel or rear pillar mid-range location, confirm the exact opening and speaker type before selecting a replacement.
- If your vehicle uses the 8 inch subwoofer location, check enclosure fit and system compatibility before choosing an upgrade.
Check Before Buying
- Confirm the trim and audio package first, since speaker count and amplifier equipment can vary from 6 to 12 speakers.
- Measure mounting depth and overall clearance, especially for the front door 6 x 9 inch location.
- Verify the connector style and factory bracket design so the replacement matches the vehicle’s wiring and mounting points.
- Check whether the system is factory-amplified, since that can affect speaker choice and installation planning.
Installation Notes
The 2017 Ford Explorer uses a speaker layout that can vary by trim and audio package, so verify the exact system before ordering parts. 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 1 inch front tweeters, a 3.5 inch dash corner center channel, and an 8 inch far-rear side panel subwoofer if equipped. Panel removal is required at the doors and any rear or dash locations, so work carefully to avoid breaking clips or damaging trim. Check speaker depth and mounting clearance before installation, especially in the front doors and rear pillar locations. Mounting adapters may be needed to match the factory openings, and harness adapters can help preserve the original wiring. If your vehicle has the factory subwoofer, confirm enclosure access and wiring before replacing it. After installation, test each speaker position, balance, and fade setting to make sure every channel is working correctly.
Moderate difficulty, since access, trim removal, and trim-dependent audio equipment can make the job more involved.
Common Mistakes When Replacing Speakers
When shopping for a 2017 Ford Explorer audio upgrade, the biggest problems usually come from assuming every version uses the same speaker layout or audio package.
- Buying based only on the body-style label instead of checking actual speaker locations on the vehicle.
- Assuming every trim uses the same speaker count or amplifier setup instead of verifying the trim and audio package first.
- Replacing the front speakers without confirming mounting depth and connector style, which can cause fitment issues even when the size looks correct.
- Treating the 1-inch tweeters or the 3.5-inch center channel as standard parts instead of checking whether they are equipped on the vehicle.
- Ignoring the factory subwoofer location if equipped, since the far-rear side panel setup can change the upgrade plan.
- Reassembling the panels before testing the system, which can leave wiring or channel problems hidden until everything is already back together.
Generation & Model Family
The 2017 Ford Explorer belongs to the Fifth generation (U502) - Facelift (2016–2017) 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 2017 Ford Explorer uses different audio setups depending on trim, so the best upgrade path starts with confirming your current system. Front-stage speakers are the biggest opportunity for cleaner sound, while higher trims may already include more advanced factory audio. A smart plan depends on whether your vehicle has the 6-speaker setup or the 12-speaker premium system.
| Goal | Best Upgrade Path | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Better clarity | Upgrade the front door speakers first, then add better tweeters if equipped, and consider the center channel only if your audio package includes one. | The front stage does the most work for vocals and detail, so improving those speakers usually gives the biggest clarity gain. Tweeters are listed as optional equipment, so front-stage upgrades should be matched to your exact system. |
| More bass | If your Explorer has the factory subwoofer, treat it as a starting point and add an aftermarket subwoofer system for stronger low-end output. | The factory subwoofer is listed as optional equipment, so bass output can vary by trim and audio package. Adding a dedicated aftermarket subwoofer is the most effective way to increase low-frequency impact. |
| Louder sound | Properly matched speakers and amplifier integration can improve volume and reduce distortion. Verify factory amp and premium system integration before adding aftermarket amplifiers. | Some trims include factory amplification while others use simpler audio setups, so integration matters. Matching the upgrade to the vehicle’s existing audio package helps the system play louder without sounding strained. |
| Budget improvement | Replace the front door speakers first with same-size replacement speakers with correct mounting brackets, then upgrade the rear speakers later if needed. | Front speakers are the most-used part of the system, so they usually deliver the best value for the money. Starting there gives a noticeable improvement without needing a full-system overhaul. |
| 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 interior looking original while still improving sound. It also helps the upgrade fit the vehicle’s existing speaker locations and wiring layout more cleanly. |
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 2017 Ford Explorer?
The front door uses 6 x 9 inch full-range speakers. Tweeters are listed at 1 inch if equipped, so speaker layout can vary by audio package.
What size are the rear speakers in a 2017 Ford Explorer?
The rear door speakers are 6.5 inch full-range units. The rear pillar also uses 3.5 inch mid-range speakers in the factory layout.
Does the 2017 Ford Explorer have a factory subwoofer?
An 8 inch subwoofer is listed in the far-rear side panels if equipped. Availability can depend on trim and audio package.
Do I need mounting adapters for speaker replacement?
Mounting adapter needs depend on the speaker location and the replacement speaker design. The factory sizes vary by position, so verify the opening before ordering parts.
Can I replace the speakers without replacing the radio?
Yes, speaker replacement can be done while keeping the factory radio. The best results depend on matching the new speakers to the vehicle’s factory audio setup.
Does the 2017 Ford Explorer have a factory amplifier?
Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package. Some trims list a 390W amplifier, while Platinum lists a 500W premium amplifier and Base trims show N/A.