What size speakers are in the Ford Explorer?
The sizes vary by model year and trim, but in recent Explorers the door speakers are commonly 6x8 inches, with some trims using 6.5-inch round speakers. The base system uses fewer speakers, while higher-end trims add more speakers and a subwoofer, especially with the Bang & Olufsen setup. For a precise measurement, check your vehicle’s door labels or owner’s manual.
Speaker sizes by generation
The Ford Explorer has undergone two major generations in the last decade. Here is a practical guide to what you’re likely to encounter across common trims and years.
Core dimensions you’ll see in most Explorers
Door speakers in most recent Explorers are typically configured around rectangular 6x8-inch sizes, with some trims using 6.5-inch round units. Tweeters are usually mounted in the dash or A-pillars to handle high frequencies.
- 2011–2019 (Fifth generation, first facelift): Most trims use a six-speaker setup with front and rear doors featuring 6x8-inch speakers; two dash or A-pillar tweeters handle highs.
- 2020–present (Sixth generation redesign): The base system remains a six-speaker arrangement, often sharing 6x8-inch (or very similar) door speakers. Premium systems add more speakers, and the top Bang & Olufsen configuration uses a 12-speaker setup with a dedicated sub for deeper bass.
The exact speaker sizes can vary by year and trim, so use the guide above as a general reference and verify with your vehicle’s documentation or by inspecting the door labels.
System options and typical layouts
Different audio configurations change how many speakers you’ll see and where they’re located. Here’s how the common setups break down and where sizes typically apply.
Base and mid-range configurations
Base models usually come with a six-speaker system. The door speakers are commonly 6x8 inches (or the closest equivalent in that year), with two additional small tweeters providing higher-frequency sound.
- Base 6-speaker system: front doors around 6x8 inches, rear doors matching, plus dash/tweeter units for highs.
- Mid-range 8-speaker system: adds two more drivers (often located in the rear doors or cargo area) while preserving the same general door sizes.
Exact sizes and placements can vary by year and trim, so confirm with the specific build sheet or inspect the panels for measurement labels.
Premium Bang & Olufsen system
The Bang & Olufsen (B&O) upgrade is Ford’s high-end audio option for the Explorer. It features more speakers and a subwoofer to deliver a fuller, louder sound with richer dynamics.
- Bang & Olufsen 12-speaker setup: front and rear doors typically house 6x8-inch speakers, with additional midrange drivers placed for improved imaging; a dedicated subwoofer (usually located in the cargo area) handles deeper bass; several high-frequency drivers are positioned around the cabin to optimize soundstage.
As with other configurations, the exact speaker sizes and placements can vary by model year and trim package, so verify the current specification for your specific Explorer.
Practical tips for buyers and owners
When upgrading or replacing components, keep these considerations in mind to ensure proper fit and compatibility.
- Check the door label or owner’s manual for the exact size listing (common ones are 6x8 inches or 6x8 equivalents, and some trims may use 6.5-inch rounds).
- If replacing speakers, you may need mounting adapters or brackets to fit the rectangular 6x8 openings in some trims; confirm compatibility with your model year.
- For premium upgrades (like B&O), consider matching the factory amplifier and head unit to maintain proper power delivery and sound quality.
Following these checks helps ensure a clean install and optimal sound performance.
Summary
In modern Ford Explorers, the most common door speaker size is 6x8 inches, with some trims using 6.5-inch round speakers. The base configuration typically uses six speakers, while higher trims add more units, and the Bang & Olufsen setup uses up to 12 speakers plus a subwoofer for enhanced bass and overall sound quality. Because configurations change by model year and trim, always verify the exact sizes for your vehicle via the owner’s manual, window sticker, or door labels.
