2018 Ford Explorer Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
2018 Ford Explorer Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
This page outlines the factory speaker layout, common speaker locations, and upgrade considerations for the 2018 Ford Explorer. Equipment can vary by trim, body style, or audio package, so the exact setup should be verified before ordering parts. Some models include optional tweeters, a center channel, or a subwoofer, while speaker count and amplifier details change across the lineup.
Data verified by Nick Marchenko, PhD
Speaker Size Chart – 2018 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 | |
| Rear Door | Full-Range | 6.5 inch | |
| Far-Rear Side Panels | Subwoofer | 8 inch | if equipped |
| Rear Pillar | Mid-Range | 3.5 inch | |
| Center Dash | Center Channel | 3.5 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 – 2018 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 2018 Ford Explorer uses the same core speaker layout across the model, but equipment can vary by body style, trim, and audio package. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package. Tweeters, the subwoofer, and the center channel may be included if equipped, so check the specific vehicle before planning upgrades.
What Speakers Fit the 2018 Ford Explorer?
Aftermarket fitment should start with the factory speaker locations listed for this 2018 Ford Explorer, but diameter alone is not enough. Check mounting depth, bracket shape, connector type, and whether your vehicle uses a premium or factory-amplified audio system. The Explorer can be equipped with different speaker layouts depending on trim, so equipment can vary. Optional tweeters, a center channel, and an 8-inch subwoofer may also be present if equipped, which can affect what needs to be replaced or retained.
Usually Safe Upgrades
- If your vehicle uses the front door 6 x 9 inch full-range location, that is the main size to match when shopping for replacement speakers.
- If your vehicle uses the rear door 6.5 inch full-range location, look for speakers built around that opening and verify depth before buying.
- If your vehicle uses the rear pillar 3.5 inch mid-range location, compact 3.5 inch replacements are the starting point for fitment.
- If your vehicle has the front door 1 inch tweeter location, replacement tweeters should be matched carefully and only if equipped.
- If your vehicle has the far-rear side panel 8 inch subwoofer or the center dash 3.5 inch center channel, those locations should be checked separately because they are optional.
Check Before Buying
- Confirm your trim and audio package first, since speaker count and amplifier setup vary from 6 to 12 speakers.
- Verify whether the vehicle uses a factory amplifier, because factory amplifier details should be checked by trim and audio package.
- Measure mounting depth and inspect the factory bracket or adapter shape before ordering any speaker.
- Check the connector style at each location so the replacement speaker can be wired correctly.
- If your Explorer has optional tweeters, a center channel, or a subwoofer, confirm those locations are actually present before buying parts.
Installation Notes
The 2018 Ford Explorer uses different factory audio layouts depending on trim and equipment, so verify the speaker count, amplifier, and option package before ordering parts. Front door locations may use 1-inch tweeters if equipped, along with 6 x 9-inch full-range speakers, while rear doors use 6.5-inch speakers and the rear pillar uses 3.5-inch mid-range speakers. Some systems also include a center dash speaker and, if your vehicle has the factory subwoofer, an 8-inch unit in the far-rear side panels. Panel removal should be done carefully to avoid breaking clips or damaging trim, and wiring polarity should be checked before final assembly. Speaker depth is important in the doors and rear locations, so confirm clearance behind the mounting surface. Many installations will require mounting adapters and harness adapters to match the factory openings and connectors. After installation, test balance, fade, and all channels at low volume before reassembling the panels.
Moderate difficulty, since trim-dependent audio equipment and careful panel removal can make the job more involved.
Common Mistakes When Replacing Speakers
The 2018 Ford Explorer can vary a lot by trim and audio package, so the safest upgrade plan is to verify the exact speaker layout before buying parts.
- Buying based only on the body-style label instead of checking actual speaker locations on the vehicle.
- Assuming every Explorer uses the same factory audio setup instead of confirming the trim and audio package, since speaker count and amplifier details vary from 6 to 12 speakers.
- Ignoring the front door tweeter if equipped, which can lead to ordering the wrong parts for the front stage.
- Skipping mounting depth and connector checks before purchase, which can cause fitment or wiring issues even when the speaker size looks correct.
- Replacing speakers without testing the system first and then again before reassembly, which makes it harder to catch wiring or channel problems early.
Generation & Model Family
The 2018 Ford Explorer belongs to the Fifth generation (U502) - Second Facelift (2018–2019) 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 2018 Ford Explorer uses different audio setups depending on trim, so equipment can vary from a basic 6-speaker system to higher-output 12-speaker packages with factory amplification. A smart upgrade plan starts with the front stage, then adds bass or power based on your trim and audio package. Checking the existing system first helps you choose the right path.
| Goal | Best Upgrade Path | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Better clarity | Upgrade the front door speakers first, and if equipped, pair them with better tweeters for a cleaner front stage. | The front speakers do the most work for vocals and detail, so improving that area usually gives the biggest jump in clarity. If tweeters are equipped, replacing them with higher-quality units can sharpen highs and improve overall balance. |
| More bass | If equipped with the factory subwoofer, consider replacing or supplementing it with an aftermarket subwoofer setup that matches your space and power goals. | The factory bass setup may be limited by trim and audio package, so a dedicated aftermarket sub can add deeper low-end output. If your vehicle has the optional subwoofer, it is worth verifying the existing enclosure and system integration before upgrading. |
| Louder sound | Properly matched speakers and amplifier integration can improve volume and reduce distortion. Verify factory amp and premium system details by trim and audio package before adding aftermarket amplification. | Higher volume is not just about power; the speakers and amplifier need to work well together. On trims with factory amplification, confirming the existing audio layout helps avoid compatibility issues and makes it easier to choose the right upgrade path. |
| Budget improvement | Replace the most-used front door speakers first with same-size replacement speakers and the correct mounting brackets. | This approach gives the best value because the front speakers handle most of the sound you hear every day. Starting there keeps costs lower while still improving clarity, balance, and overall listening quality. |
| 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 keeps the interior looking original while still improving sound quality. Using the proper brackets and adapters also helps the upgrade blend in with the existing system and reduces the need for visible modifications. |
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 2018 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 door speakers?
The rear door speakers are 6.5 inch full-range units.
Does the 2018 Ford Explorer have a factory subwoofer?
Some audio systems may include an 8 inch subwoofer in the far-rear side panels if equipped. Availability can vary by trim and audio package.
Do I need mounting adapters to replace the speakers?
Mounting needs can vary by speaker location and the replacement speaker design. Check the factory opening and depth before choosing adapters.
Can I replace the speakers without replacing the radio?
Yes, speaker upgrades can be done while keeping the factory radio. The best results depend on the trim, speaker count, and whether the vehicle has an amplified system.
Does the 2018 Ford Explorer have a factory amplifier?
Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package. Some trims list a 390W or 500W amplifier, while others do not.