What size speakers are in the Cavalier door?
Front-door speakers in most Chevrolet Cavalier models are 6.5 inches (165 mm) in diameter. Rear doors, when equipped, are typically smaller, commonly 4x6 inches or 4 inches, depending on year and trim.
The Cavalier was produced across multiple generations (1982–2005), and speaker configurations varied by year, trim level, and optional audio packages. If you’re upgrading or replacing speakers, the exact size for your vehicle can vary, so it’s best to verify the specific measurement for your car before buying replacements.
Speaker sizes by location and generation
Front doors
Most Cavalier front-door installations use a standard 6.5-inch (165 mm) woofer, often paired with a separate tweeter or a two-way coaxial setup depending on trim and factory package.
- Common size: 6.5-inch (165 mm) diameter.
- Variations: some early or base models may use smaller 5.25-inch speakers in certain configurations.
- Power considerations: many factory setups use 2– or 3-way assemblies with a separate tweeter; upgrades should consider mounting depth and impedance.
In practice, the 6.5-inch front-door speaker is the prevailing standard across most Cavalier generations, though exceptions exist for specific trims or early models.
Rear doors
Rear-door speaker sizes are more variable and depend on the generation and trim. In many Cavalier models, the rear doors use smaller speakers than the front, often:
- Common sizes: 4x6 inches or 4-inch speakers are typical for rear doors, though some configurations may use different shapes or mounting options.
- Exceptions: certain base or late-model trims may omit rear speakers or employ smaller midrange units.
As with the front doors, variations by year and trim mean it’s wise to confirm the exact rear-door size before purchasing replacements.
How to verify the exact size for your Cavalier
To ensure you buy the correct replacements for your specific Cavalier, use these verification steps:
- Check the owner’s manual or factory paperwork for speaker specifications. Look for model year, trim level, and audio package details.
- Remove the door panel carefully to inspect the speaker. Measure the diameter across the magnet or mounting frame to confirm whether it is 6.5", 5.25", or another size.
- Look for markings on the speaker itself (impedance and size are often printed on the magnet). If you see numbers like 6.5" or 4"x6", that’s your size.
- If you’re unsure, bring a physical measurement or a replacement part to an auto parts store; staff can help confirm fit for front and rear doors.
Verifying the exact size ahead of time reduces the risk of ordering incompatible speakers and helps ensure proper fitment and sound quality.
Summary
Across the Cavalier’s production span, the front-door speakers are most commonly 6.5 inches in diameter, with rear-door speakers typically smaller (commonly 4x6 inches or 4 inches). However, variations by year, trim, and audio package mean you should verify your specific vehicle’s sizes by measuring the current speakers or consulting the manual. When upgrading, consider not only size but mounting depth, impedance, and wiring compatibility to achieve the best performance.
