Where is the factory amp on a 2018 Chevy Silverado?

In the 2018 Silverado lineup, the location of the factory amplifier hinges on the audio system installed. If your truck has the Bose Premium Audio system, there is a separate amplifier unit mounted in the cargo area. If you have the base audio system, there is typically no separate external amplifier—the radio itself handles amplification. This guide breaks down where to look based on your setup and how to identify it.

Audio system configurations and amp location

The following options apply depending on your Silverado's audio system. If you’re unsure which system your truck has, check the window sticker or the vehicle’s RPO (Regular Production Option) codes for Bose (UQA/UHQ/UHQ/UQ3, etc.) versus base audio.

• Bose Premium Audio: A separate factory amplifier is used with this system. In most 2018 Silverado models equipped with Bose, the amp is a compact black box mounted in the rear cargo area, typically behind the side panel or near the wheel well, and connected to the speaker wiring and power harness.


• Base Audio: There is no dedicated external amplifier in most 2018 Silverado base systems. The sound is produced through the head unit and built-in amplification, with no separate amp housing in the cargo area or under seats.

Location can vary by cab configuration (Regular, Extended, Crew) and production changes. If you’re chasing a specific unit for replacement or upgrade, verify the exact mounting spot on your vehicle by following the steps below or consulting the service manual.

How to locate the amp on your specific truck

To pinpoint the exact location on your vehicle, follow these practical steps. They apply whether you’re planning diagnostics, replacement, or a component upgrade.

1. Identify the audio system: check the RPO codes on the driver's door jamb or consult the owner’s manual to confirm whether Bose Premium Audio is installed.


2. Inspect the cargo area: for Bose-equipped trucks, look behind the right or left rear cargo panel or near the wheel well for a small rectangular black module with multiple wiring harnesses labeled as an amplifier.


3. Check under rear seating: some configurations place the amp under the rear seat cushion or behind the rear seat panels; carefully remove trim panels or the seat bottom to inspect.


4. Follow the wiring: trace the speaker and power strands from the rear speakers toward a central amplification unit to verify you’ve found the amplifier.

If you still can’t locate the amp, consult the dealership or a factory service manual for your exact VIN, since production changes and trim differences can alter the mounting location.

Additional considerations

Safety first: when accessing or removing any amplifier or related wiring, disconnect the vehicle battery to prevent short circuits. If you’re performing a replacement or upgrade, consider using authorized GM parts or certified installers to maintain compatibility with vehicle integrative features like digital sound processing and amplifier-channel wiring.

Summary

The factory amplifier location on a 2018 Chevy Silverado depends on the audio system. Bose Premium Audio models usually house a separate amplifier in the cargo area (the exact mounting can vary by cab style and trim), while base audio models generally have no separate external amp. To locate it, confirm your system type, then inspect the cargo area and rear-seat areas, following wiring paths or consulting the service manual for precise guidance. In doubt, a dealership or qualified technician can identify the correct mounting location and ensure proper handling during any work.

Can I bypass my factory amp?

Bypassing the factory amp takes a little more work because you have to run the bypass harness to the factory amp, which is often located in some other part of the car. It's usually worth the extra effort because you'll get better sound from your new stereo, even if you're keeping those factory speakers.

Where is the factory amplifier located?

The factory amplifier's location varies by vehicle, but common spots include under the front seats, in the dashboard (near the steering column or glove box), or in the trunk or rear quarter panel. A simple way to start is to look for concentrated wiring or a specific emblem on the radio or doors, which can help narrow down the search area for your make and model. 
This video demonstrates how to find a factory amplifier in a Nissan Xterra: 58sFive Star Car StereoYouTube · Feb 23, 2023
Common locations by vehicle type

• Under seats: Many vehicles, especially those with rear seats, place the amplifier underneath the passenger or driver's rear seat. 
• Dashboard: In some cars, the amplifier is located behind the dashboard, often to the left of the steering column or above the glove box. 
• Trunk or rear: Look in the trunk, either behind a rear quarter panel or on the parcel shelf, particularly in many German cars. 
• Center console: Some models have the amp integrated higher up in the center console. 
• Kick panel: You might find the amplifier in the kick panel area, most often on the passenger side. 

This video shows how to find a Toyota Tundra factory amplifier: 1mJPtheinstallguyYouTube · Aug 12, 2024
How to narrow down the search

• Check for emblems: Premium sound systems often have a brand emblem (like JBL or Bose) on the head unit or door panels, indicating an amplifier is present. 
• Trace the wires: Inspect the floor sills for a bundle of wires, which can help you determine if the amplifier is likely located in the front or rear of the vehicle. 
• Use your VIN: You can call a dealership with your VIN to ask about the original equipment, including whether an amplifier was installed. 

How do I tell if my truck has a factory amp?

Research. You can always use the VIN number your vehicle. Call a local dealer. And actually just give them the VIN number they usually need the last 7 to 10 digits of the VIN.

Where is the factory amp on a 2018 Silverado?

The 2018 Silverado factory amplifier is located on the rear wall of the cab, behind the rear seat on the passenger's side. When replacing the stereo system, you will need to access this location to bypass the factory amp and often install an aftermarket amplifier for a subwoofer. 
You can watch this video to see the process of installing an amplifier in a 2018 Silverado: 55sJordan MoreeYouTube · Nov 10, 2019

• Location: Behind the rear seat, on the passenger's side of the cab. 
• Purpose in aftermarket installation: To bypass the factory system when installing an aftermarket stereo and/or subwoofer. 

This video explains how to determine if your vehicle has a factory amplified system: 26sSonic ElectronixYouTube · May 3, 2016