Where is the factory amp on a 2017 Chevy Silverado?
For a 2017 Chevy Silverado, the location of the factory amplifier depends on whether your truck is equipped with the Bose Premium Audio system. If Bose is installed, the amplifier sits behind the glove box on the passenger side. If Bose is not present, there isn’t a separate factory amplifier—the radio or built-in modules handle amplification.
Understanding Silverado audio configurations
The 2017 Silverado offered multiple audio setups, with Bose as an optional upgrade. The presence of a separate amplifier is tied to Bose; base configurations do not use a stand-alone amp. This distinction matters for troubleshooting, upgrading, and component replacement.
With Bose Premium Audio
If your Silverado is equipped with Bose Premium Audio, locate the amplifier behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access requires removing the glove box and possibly a lower trim panel to reach the module.
Before you begin any disassembly, consider this: the glove box must be lowered and the dash panels may need to be carefully pried loose to avoid damage.
- Confirm the system is Bose by checking the door sticker, the owner’s manual, or the infotainment system’s sound settings for “Bose Premium.”
- Power down the vehicle and disconnect the negative battery terminal if you plan to handle wiring or remove panels.
- Carefully open and lower the glove box by releasing the stops/damper or hinges.
- Look for a rectangular black module with a wiring harness mounted to the dash near the glove box area on the passenger side.
- Disconnect the harness and remove the amplifier if replacement or inspection is required.
In practice, the Bose amp is a distinct unit and is typically mounted to the back side of the dash area rather than to a floor or under-seat location. This makes it accessible without removing the entire dashboard.
Without Bose Premium Audio
If your Silverado does not have Bose Premium Audio, there is generally no separate factory amplifier box to locate. The audio power is provided by the head unit itself or a built-in module within the radio assembly.
Note: If you’re investigating for an upgrade or troubleshooting, check the radio model and the under-dash harnesses. Some trims may use a small amp module integrated into the radio housing, which can be serviced only as part of the head unit replacement.
- Verify whether Bose is installed or not using the system settings or a VIN/trim lookup.
- Understand there is typically no external amp to locate in non-Bose configurations.
- If you’re upgrading, plan to replace the head unit or add an aftermarket amplifier/processor, rather than trying to locate a factory external amp.
For both scenarios, always follow proper safety procedures when working with vehicle electronics and consider consulting a professional if you’re not confident disassembling interior panels or handling airbags and electronics.
How to safely verify the location
Whether you’re troubleshooting sound issues or planning an upgrade, visually confirming the presence and location of the amplifier helps prevent unnecessary disassembly. Use the above steps as a guide, and refer to your owner's manual for model-specific details.
Summary
In a 2017 Chevy Silverado, the factory amplifier location hinges on the audio system. Bose Premium Audio uses a dedicated amplifier mounted behind the passenger-side glove box, while non-Bose configurations generally do not have a separate amplifier—the radio or built-in modules handle amplification. When in doubt, confirm your system type and proceed with careful, methodical checks or enlist a professional installer.
