Upgrade Your 2017 Nissan Sentra Speakers

by Jhon Lennon 41 views

Hey guys! So, you're looking to upgrade the speakers in your 2017 Nissan Sentra? Awesome! You've come to the right place. Replacing your car speakers can seriously boost your audio experience. Whether you're a hardcore audiophile or just someone who enjoys listening to music on their daily commute, a speaker upgrade can make a world of difference. In this article, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about replacing the speakers in your 2017 Nissan Sentra. From choosing the right speakers to the actual installation process, we've got you covered. Let's get started and make your car sound amazing!

Why Replace Your 2017 Nissan Sentra Speakers?

So, why bother replacing your speakers in the first place? Well, the factory speakers in most cars, including the 2017 Nissan Sentra, are often made with cost-effectiveness in mind. This means the quality of the materials and the overall sound performance might leave a bit to be desired. Replacing your speakers can offer a range of benefits. First off, you'll likely notice a significant improvement in sound quality. This means clearer highs, richer mids, and deeper bass – all contributing to a more immersive listening experience. Upgrading your speakers can also enhance the overall clarity and detail of your music. You'll be able to hear instruments and vocals more distinctly, bringing your favorite tunes to life. Furthermore, better speakers can handle higher volumes without distorting the sound, allowing you to crank up the volume without sacrificing audio quality. And hey, let's face it: good audio makes driving more enjoyable! Whether you're stuck in traffic or cruising on the open road, a fantastic sound system can transform your commute into a pleasure. Plus, it's a relatively easy and cost-effective upgrade that can dramatically improve your car's interior.

Benefits of Speaker Replacement

  • Improved Sound Quality: Experience clearer highs, richer mids, and deeper bass.
  • Enhanced Clarity: Hear instruments and vocals more distinctly.
  • Higher Volume Capability: Enjoy louder music without distortion.
  • Increased Enjoyment: Make your daily commute or road trips more enjoyable.
  • Cost-Effective Upgrade: A significant audio improvement for a reasonable price.

Choosing the Right Speakers for Your 2017 Nissan Sentra

Alright, now for the fun part: choosing the perfect speakers for your 2017 Nissan Sentra! With so many options out there, it can be a bit overwhelming. But don't worry, we'll break it down to make the process easier. The first thing you need to know is the speaker size and type that fits your car. For the 2017 Nissan Sentra, you'll typically find that the front door speakers are 6.5 inches, while the rear speakers may also be 6.5 inches or sometimes 6x9 inches, depending on the trim level. Always double-check your car's specifications or consult your owner's manual to confirm the exact sizes. You can also measure the speakers yourself. Now, let's talk about the different types of speakers. You've got coaxial speakers, which have the tweeter mounted on the same axis as the woofer, and component speakers, which have separate tweeters and woofers. Coaxial speakers are generally easier to install, making them a great choice for beginners. Component speakers, on the other hand, can offer superior sound quality, but they often require more complex installation. When selecting speakers, consider the power handling capabilities. Make sure the speakers can handle the power output of your car's stereo system or any aftermarket amplifier you might be using. Also, think about the sound characteristics you prefer. Do you like a lot of bass? Then look for speakers with a strong low-frequency response. Do you prioritize clear highs? Choose speakers with excellent tweeter performance. Check out online reviews and compare different brands and models to see what other Sentra owners recommend. Some popular brands include JBL, Polk Audio, and Rockford Fosgate, to name a few. Finally, consider your budget. Speaker prices can vary widely. Set a budget before you start shopping to narrow down your options and avoid overspending. Remember that higher-priced speakers aren't always necessarily better, and you can often find great-sounding speakers at a reasonable price point.

Speaker Types

  • Coaxial Speakers: Easier to install, tweeter mounted on the same axis as the woofer.
  • Component Speakers: Offer superior sound quality, separate tweeters and woofers, more complex installation.

Important Considerations

  • Speaker Size: Ensure compatibility with your 2017 Nissan Sentra (typically 6.5 inches front and rear).
  • Power Handling: Match the speakers to your car's stereo or amplifier power output.
  • Sound Preferences: Consider your desired bass, mid, and high-frequency balance.
  • Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you start, gather all the necessary tools and materials. This will make the installation process smoother and more efficient. First, you'll need the new speakers you've chosen. Make sure you have the correct size and type for your 2017 Nissan Sentra. You'll also need a set of basic tools, including a screwdriver (Phillips and flathead), a panel removal tool, and a wire stripper/crimper. A panel removal tool is super important because it helps you safely remove the door panels without damaging them. It's usually a plastic tool that you can find at any auto parts store. You'll need some wire connectors, like crimp connectors or solder, to connect the new speakers to your car's wiring harness. If you're using component speakers, you'll need to run wires for the tweeters. Electrical tape is helpful for insulating any exposed wires. Also, consider getting speaker adapters or mounting brackets if the new speakers don't fit perfectly into the factory openings. These adapters are designed to make the installation easier and ensure a secure fit. You might also need a drill with the appropriate drill bits if you need to create new mounting holes. Finally, a pair of work gloves can protect your hands, and a flashlight can help you see in those dark, hard-to-reach places inside the door. Preparing beforehand will minimize frustration and ensure a clean installation. Remember, safety first! Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work on your car.

Essential Tools

  • New speakers
  • Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
  • Panel removal tool
  • Wire stripper/crimper
  • Wire connectors (crimp connectors or solder)
  • Electrical tape
  • Speaker adapters/mounting brackets (if needed)
  • Drill and drill bits (if needed)
  • Work gloves
  • Flashlight

Step-by-Step Speaker Replacement Guide

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and walk through the speaker replacement process step by step. First things first: safety! Disconnect the negative terminal of your car's battery. This will prevent any electrical shorts while you're working. Then, locate the door panel screws. They're usually hidden behind trim pieces or in the door handle recess. Carefully remove these screws using a screwdriver. Next, use the panel removal tool to gently pry the door panel away from the door. Start at the bottom or the side and work your way around, releasing the clips that hold the panel in place. Be patient and careful not to break any clips. Once the panel is loose, disconnect any wiring harnesses connected to it, such as those for the power windows and door locks. Now, you can remove the old speaker. Unscrew it from the door and disconnect the wiring harness. Take a moment to admire the old speaker, then get ready to upgrade! If you have component speakers, mount the tweeters. If you're using coaxial speakers, you can skip this step. Now, connect the wiring of your new speakers. Use wire connectors to attach the speaker wires to the car's wiring harness. Make sure you match the polarity correctly (positive to positive, negative to negative). Then, mount the new speaker in the door. If the new speaker doesn't fit perfectly, use speaker adapters or mounting brackets. Screw the speaker into place. Reconnect any wiring harnesses to the door panel. Carefully align the door panel with the door and snap it back into place, making sure all the clips are securely fastened. Replace the screws you removed earlier. Finally, reconnect the negative terminal of the car battery. Test your new speakers to make sure they're working correctly, and enjoy the improved sound quality!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative terminal.
  2. Remove Door Panel Screws: Locate and remove the screws holding the door panel.
  3. Remove Door Panel: Use a panel removal tool to detach the door panel.
  4. Disconnect Wiring: Unplug any wiring harnesses attached to the door panel.
  5. Remove Old Speaker: Unscrew and disconnect the old speaker.
  6. Mount Tweeters (Component Speakers): Install the tweeters.
  7. Connect Wiring: Connect the speaker wires to the car's wiring harness.
  8. Mount New Speaker: Securely install the new speaker using adapters if needed.
  9. Reassemble Door Panel: Reconnect harnesses and snap the door panel back into place.
  10. Replace Screws: Secure the door panel with screws.
  11. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal.
  12. Test the Speakers: Ensure the new speakers function correctly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don't go perfectly according to plan. That's okay! Here are some common issues you might encounter during the speaker replacement process and how to fix them. If you're having trouble removing the door panel, double-check that you've removed all the screws. Sometimes, there are hidden screws behind trim pieces or under the door handle. Be gentle when prying the panel away from the door, and use the panel removal tool to avoid breaking the clips. If you're having trouble connecting the speaker wires, make sure you've stripped the wires properly and are using the correct size wire connectors. If the speakers aren't producing any sound, double-check all your connections. Make sure you've matched the polarity correctly (positive to positive, negative to negative) and that all the connections are secure. Also, make sure the speakers are properly wired to your car stereo. If you're experiencing distortion or poor sound quality, the speakers may not be compatible with your car's stereo system or amplifier. Check the power handling capabilities of the speakers and compare them to the power output of your system. You might also have a faulty speaker or wiring issue. If you're using component speakers, ensure the tweeters are correctly wired and that the crossover is functioning properly. If you're still having trouble, consult the speaker's manual. If you've tried everything and the speakers still aren't working, consider seeking help from a professional car audio installer. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix any issues you might be experiencing. It is also good to check the wiring diagram for your car's audio system. These diagrams will help you trace the wires and identify any potential problems.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Door Panel Removal: Ensure all screws are removed and use a panel removal tool carefully.
  • Wiring Issues: Double-check wire connections, polarity, and ensure proper use of connectors.
  • Sound Quality Problems: Verify speaker compatibility with your car stereo and check for any wiring issues.
  • Professional Help: Consider seeking help from a professional audio installer if needed.

Finishing Up and Enjoying Your Upgraded Sound

Congratulations, guys! You've successfully replaced the speakers in your 2017 Nissan Sentra! Now, take a moment to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Crank up your favorite tunes and experience the improved sound quality. You should notice a significant difference in clarity, detail, and overall enjoyment. Test out different genres of music to see how the new speakers perform. You might discover nuances in your favorite songs that you never noticed before. After you've enjoyed the sound, there are a few extra steps you can take to make the most of your new speakers. Consider adjusting the equalizer settings on your car stereo to fine-tune the sound to your liking. Experiment with the bass, treble, and other settings to find the perfect balance. If you're still not satisfied with the sound, you might want to consider adding a subwoofer for even deeper bass or an amplifier to provide more power to your speakers. Also, make sure to maintain your car audio system. Regularly clean your car's interior to prevent dust and debris from damaging your speakers. Avoid exposing your speakers to extreme temperatures or moisture. By taking care of your system, you can ensure that it continues to provide you with years of listening enjoyment. Overall, the speaker replacement process is a rewarding experience that can significantly enhance your driving experience. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy your awesome new sound system!

Post-Installation Tips

  • Adjust Equalizer Settings: Fine-tune sound to your preferences.
  • Consider Additional Components: Think about adding a subwoofer or amplifier.
  • Maintain Your System: Clean regularly and protect from extreme conditions.
  • Enjoy Your Music!

I hope this guide has been helpful! Happy listening!