2014 Subaru Forester Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
2014 Subaru Forester Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
This page covers the factory speaker layout, speaker locations, and upgrade considerations for the 2014 Subaru Forester. Equipment can vary by trim, body style, or audio package, so the audio setup may differ from one vehicle to another. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package, and selected audio systems may also include additional equipment if equipped.
Data verified by Nick Marchenko, PhD
Speaker Size Chart – 2014 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 2014 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
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Speaker Count by Trim – 2014 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0XT Touring 4dr All-wheel Drive | 8 | 440W Harman-Kardon | – | – |
| 2.5i Touring 4dr All-wheel Drive | 8 | 440W Harman-Kardon | – | – |
| 2.0XT Premium 4dr All-wheel Drive | 6 | – | – | – |
| 2.5i Limited 4dr All-wheel Drive | 6 | – | – | – |
| 2.5i Premium 4dr All-wheel Drive | 6 | – | – | – |
| 2.5i 4dr All-wheel Drive | 4 | – | – | – |
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 this model year, body style can affect factory audio equipment, but direct body-style-specific speaker data is not listed. Different versions may vary in speaker count, rear audio layout, and factory audio packages, so it is best to verify the exact trim and audio system before planning upgrades.
What Speakers Fit the 2014 Subaru Forester?
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. This 2014 Subaru Forester uses 6.5-inch full-range speakers in the front and rear doors, while trim-level audio equipment can vary from 4 to 8 speakers. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package before choosing replacements.
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 6.5-inch full-range replacement is the starting point for fitment.
- If your trim is equipped with the 8-speaker Harman-Kardon system, verify compatibility with the factory amplifier before buying speakers.
- If your trim uses the 4-speaker or 6-speaker setup, confirm the factory wiring and mounting style before selecting replacements.
Check Before Buying
- Confirm the speaker location and size for your exact vehicle before ordering, since the listed factory sizes are the reference point.
- Measure mounting depth and check the factory bracket or adapter style, because size alone does not guarantee fit.
- Verify whether your trim has the premium 440W Harman-Kardon system, since amplifier-equipped vehicles can change speaker requirements.
- Check connector type and wiring layout so the replacement matches the vehicle’s factory harness.
- If you are planning a system upgrade, confirm whether any selected audio system includes additional equipment before choosing speakers.
Installation Notes
The 2014 Subaru Forester uses 6.5-inch full-range speakers in the front and rear doors, and trim level can change the total speaker count from 4 to 8. Before starting, confirm your trim and audio package so you know whether you are working with a basic system or a Harman-Kardon setup. Door panel removal is required, so work carefully around clips, handles, and trim pieces to avoid damage. Check speaker depth before ordering replacements, since door clearance can vary and some upgrades may need mounting adapters to sit correctly. A wiring harness adapter is recommended to help keep the factory wiring intact and make the installation cleaner. If your vehicle has the factory subwoofer, plan the upgrade around that system as well. After installation, test each speaker before fully reassembling the panels to confirm polarity, balance, and fitment. If the vehicle has an amplified audio system, verify compatibility before choosing replacement speakers or adding an amplifier.
Moderate difficulty, since door panel removal, wiring checks, and fitment verification are important for a clean result.
Common Mistakes When Replacing Speakers
When shopping for audio upgrades on the 2014 Subaru Forester, the biggest problems usually come from assuming every trim is wired the same way.
- 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 can range from 4 to 8 and factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package.
- Choosing speakers without confirming mounting depth and connector style, which can cause fitment issues even when the size is listed as 6.5 inch.
- Assuming tweeters are part of every setup, even though this model does not list tweeters; if equipped on a specific audio package, they need separate attention.
- Skipping a test fit and sound check before reassembly, which can leave you with reversed polarity, loose connections, or a speaker that does not play correctly.
Generation & Model Family
The 2014 Subaru Forester belongs to the Fourth generation (SH) (2014–2016) 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 2014 Subaru Forester uses a simple factory speaker layout, but equipment can vary by trim and audio package. Some versions also include a premium Harman-Kardon system, so it is worth confirming the exact setup before choosing upgrades. The best path depends on whether you want cleaner sound, more low-end impact, higher volume, or a subtle factory-style refresh.
| Goal | Best Upgrade Path | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Better clarity | Upgrade the front door speakers first, and add front-stage tweeter upgrades if equipped or if your chosen system supports them. Focus on speakers that improve midrange detail and high-frequency response without changing the rest of the system all at once. | Front speakers do the most work for vocals and instruments, so improving the front stage usually gives the biggest clarity gain. If tweeters are part of the audio setup, upgrading them can sharpen the top end and make the cabin sound more open. |
| More bass | Add an aftermarket subwoofer to complement the factory speakers and give the system more low-end output. If your vehicle has a factory subwoofer in a premium audio package, verify how it is integrated before choosing an upgrade path. | The factory door speakers are limited in low-frequency output, so a dedicated subwoofer is the most effective way to add bass. Checking the factory audio package first helps you avoid integration issues and choose the right bass upgrade. |
| 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, then choose speakers that can handle the added power cleanly. | Higher volume is not just about power; it also depends on speaker efficiency and system matching. Confirming the factory audio setup first helps you avoid conflicts with premium electronics and get cleaner output at higher listening levels. |
| 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 before moving on to the rear speakers. | Front speakers carry most of the music detail, so upgrading them first delivers the best value. Using same-size replacement speakers with proper mounting hardware keeps the install straightforward while improving everyday sound 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 approach keeps the cabin looking original while still improving sound quality. Matching the factory layout and using the right adapters helps the upgrade blend in with the existing 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 2014 Subaru Forester?
The front door speakers are 6.5-inch full-range units. Speaker data for this model year is direct, so this size applies to the listed factory layout.
What size are the rear door speakers in a 2014 Subaru Forester?
The rear door speakers are 6.5-inch full-range units. This matches the factory speaker data listed for the 2014 Forester.
Does the 2014 Subaru Forester have a factory subwoofer?
A factory subwoofer is not listed for this model year. If your vehicle has one, it would depend on the audio package or trim.
Do I need mounting adapters to replace the factory speakers?
Mounting adapters may be needed depending on the speaker you choose and the trim audio setup. The factory speaker locations are known, but fitment details should be checked before ordering.
Can I replace the speakers without replacing the radio?
Yes, speaker upgrades can be done without replacing the radio in many cases. The factory radio and audio package should still be verified, especially on trims with different speaker counts.
Does the 2014 Subaru Forester have a factory amplifier?
Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package. Some trims list a 440W Harman-Kardon amplifier, while others do not list an amplifier.