1999 Subaru Forester Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
1999 Subaru Forester Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
This page covers the factory speaker layout and upgrade considerations for the 1999 Subaru Forester. Speaker equipment can vary by trim, body style, or audio package, so the details here should be used as a guide and verified before ordering. Based on generation data, the factory audio setup may also differ from one vehicle to another, and factory amplifier details should be checked by trim and audio package.
Data verified by Nick Marchenko, PhD
Speaker Size Chart – 1999 Subaru Forester
Use this table as the main reference. Fitment depends on trim, factory audio package, mounting depth, and adapter availability.
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.
Recommended Speakers for the 1999 Subaru Forester
Selected aftermarket speakers that match the factory sizes for this vehicle. Always verify mounting depth, connector type, and audio package before ordering.
6.5" Speakers
4" Speakers
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Speaker Count by Trim – 1999 Subaru Forester
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base 4dr All-wheel Drive | 4 | opt | – | – |
| L 4dr All-wheel Drive | 4 | opt | – | – |
| S 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.
Crossover vs SUV – Audio Differences
For the 1999 Subaru Forester, body style can affect how factory audio equipment is arranged, but the database does not show body-style-specific speaker data. Based on generation data, front door 6.5-inch full-range speakers and rear door 4-inch full-range speakers are listed. Verify before ordering, since equipment can vary by trim and audio package.
What Speakers Fit the 1999 Subaru Forester?
Aftermarket fitment should start with the factory speaker locations listed above, but diameter alone is not enough. Based on generation data for this 1999 Forester, the front door uses a 6.5 inch full-range speaker and the rear door uses a 4 inch full-range speaker, but you should verify before ordering because 1999 speaker location data is carried over from the 2000 model year. Check mounting depth, bracket fit, connector type, and whether the vehicle has a factory-amplified audio system, since equipment can vary by trim.
Usually Safe Upgrades
- If your vehicle uses the front door location, a 6.5 inch full-range replacement is the starting point for fitment.
- If your vehicle uses the rear door location, a 4 inch full-range replacement matches the listed factory size.
- If your vehicle has a factory amplifier, speaker choice and wiring may need extra attention to match the system.
- If equipped with a premium audio package, verify the factory speaker layout before ordering any replacement.
Check Before Buying
- Confirm the speaker size at each location before ordering, since the 1999 data is based on generation information.
- Measure mounting depth and check for any bracket or adapter requirements.
- Inspect the connector style so you know whether any wiring changes are needed.
- Verify whether the vehicle has a factory amplifier, because that can affect speaker compatibility.
- Compare your trim and audio package to the listed 4-speaker setup, since equipment can vary.
Installation Notes
For the 1999 Subaru Forester, speaker fitment should be verified carefully because the location data is based on generation information from 2000, which shares the same generation. The front door speakers are listed as 6.5 inch full-range units, and the rear door speakers are listed as 4 inch full-range units. Before ordering, confirm speaker depth, mounting depth, and the factory opening so the replacement will clear the door panel and window hardware. Panel removal is required, so work slowly to avoid breaking clips or damaging the trim. Use a proper wiring harness adapter when available, and check polarity before final assembly. If the vehicle has a factory amplifier on your trim, verify the signal path and compatibility before installation. Mounting adapters may be needed depending on the speaker design, and a test fit is a good idea before reinstalling the door panels. Always test each speaker before putting everything back together.
Moderate, since panel removal, wiring verification, and depth checks are important before installation.
Common Mistakes When Replacing Speakers
Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when shopping for speaker upgrades for this 1999 Subaru Forester.
- Buying based only on the body-style label instead of checking actual speaker locations on the vehicle. Based on generation data, the front doors use 6.5-inch full-range speakers and the rear doors use 4-inch full-range speakers, but you should verify before ordering because 1999 speaker location data is based on 2000 generation information.
- Skipping trim and audio package checks. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package, since the trim table shows amplifier options and audio equipment can vary.
- Ignoring mounting depth and speaker clearance. Even when the speaker size matches, the available depth behind the door panel can affect whether the new speaker fits correctly.
- Overlooking connector and wiring differences. Check the factory speaker connectors and wiring before you buy adapters or cut the harness, especially when the radio or audio setup varies by trim.
- Assuming tweeters or a factory subwoofer are part of every system. Tweeters are not listed, and a factory subwoofer is not listed, so if equipped, those parts should be confirmed before planning the upgrade.
- Reassembling the door panels before testing the system. Always test each speaker for sound, balance, and polarity before putting everything back together.
Generation & Model Family
The 1999 Subaru Forester belongs to the First generation (SF) (1999–2000) 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
For the 1999 Subaru Forester, speaker and audio equipment can vary by trim and package, so it is smart to verify what is in the vehicle before ordering parts. Based on generation data, the front stage is the best place to start for most upgrades, while factory amplifier details should be checked by trim and audio package.
| Goal | Best Upgrade Path | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Better clarity | Upgrade the front door speakers first, then add front tweeters if equipped or if you are building a stronger front stage. | Cleaner highs and mids usually come from the front of the cabin, so starting there gives the biggest improvement in detail and vocal clarity. |
| More bass | Add an aftermarket subwoofer to complement the factory speakers and verify available space and system integration before choosing the enclosure and amp. | A dedicated subwoofer handles low frequencies better than door speakers alone and can fill in the bottom end without overworking the rest of the system. |
| 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 only helps when the speakers and amplification are matched correctly, and checking the existing audio setup first helps avoid integration problems. |
| Budget improvement | Replace the front doors first with same-size replacement speakers with correct mounting brackets. | The front speakers do most of the work in daily listening, so upgrading them first gives the best value for the money. |
| 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, and it helps avoid unnecessary changes to the vehicle's 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 1999 Subaru Forester?
Based on generation data, the front door speakers are 6.5 inch full-range units. Speaker location data for 1999 should be verified before ordering, since the available fitment details come from the 2000 model year in the same generation.
What size are the rear door speakers?
Based on generation data, the rear door speakers are 4 inch full-range units. Because the 1999 speaker location details are carried over from 2000 generation data, it is a good idea to verify the vehicle before buying parts.
Does the 1999 Forester have a factory subwoofer if equipped?
A factory subwoofer is not listed for this vehicle. If equipped on a specific audio package, it would need to be confirmed by trim and equipment before planning an upgrade.
Do I need mounting adapters for speaker replacement?
Mounting adapters may be needed depending on the speaker you choose and the vehicle’s original mounting setup. Since the fitment details are based on generation data, verify the opening and mounting depth before ordering parts.
Can I replace the speakers without replacing the radio?
Yes, speaker replacement can be done without replacing the radio in many cases. The trim audio data shows factory radio equipment can vary, so it is smart to confirm the system before choosing new speakers.
Does the factory amplifier matter when upgrading speakers?
Yes, it can matter. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package, since it is present on some trims and not universal. That check helps you choose speakers and wiring that match the system.