Hey there, Jeep enthusiasts! Are you looking to upgrade the sound system in your 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee? You've come to the right place! This article dives deep into the world of 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee speakers, exploring everything from factory options to aftermarket upgrades, and how to choose the best setup for your listening preferences. Let's get started and turn up the volume on your driving experience!

Understanding the Stock Speaker System

The stock speaker system in the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee varies depending on the trim level. Generally, you'll find a basic setup consisting of speakers in the front and rear doors, and potentially tweeters in the dashboard or A-pillars. Higher trim levels often include premium systems like those from Alpine or Harman Kardon, offering more speakers, amplifiers, and enhanced audio processing. However, even these premium systems might leave something to be desired for audiophiles seeking a truly immersive sound experience.

Factory Speaker Locations and Sizes

Knowing the location and size of your factory speakers is crucial for planning any upgrades. In most 2018 Grand Cherokees, you'll typically find:

• Front Doors: 6x9 inch speakers (some models may use 6.5 inch with adapters)
• Rear Doors: 6.5 inch speakers
• Dashboard: 3.5 inch tweeters (in some models)
• Subwoofer: (Located in the rear cargo area in premium systems, typically 8 inch)

It's always a good idea to double-check your specific vehicle's configuration before purchasing any replacement speakers. You can consult your owner's manual, use an online vehicle database, or remove the door panels to physically inspect the speakers.

Limitations of the Stock System

While the factory speaker system is adequate for casual listening, it often falls short in several areas:

• Sound Quality: Stock speakers typically use inexpensive materials and designs, resulting in muddy bass, harsh highs, and a lack of overall clarity.
• Power Handling: Factory speakers are not designed to handle high power levels, leading to distortion at higher volumes.
• Frequency Response: The frequency response of stock speakers is often limited, meaning they struggle to reproduce the full range of audio frequencies.
• Overall Loudness: The factory amplifier (if equipped) may not provide enough power to drive the speakers to their full potential, resulting in a lack of loudness.

If you're experiencing any of these issues, upgrading your speakers is a great way to improve your listening experience.

Choosing the Right Aftermarket Speakers

Selecting the right aftermarket speakers for your 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee can feel overwhelming, given the vast array of options available. Here's a breakdown of the key factors to consider:

Speaker Types: Component vs. Coaxial

• Component Speakers: These systems separate the tweeter and woofer into individual units, allowing for more precise placement and better soundstaging. The tweeter can be mounted higher in the door or on the dashboard, improving the stereo image and clarity. Component systems typically include a crossover network that directs the appropriate frequencies to each speaker. These are a great choice if you're after high-fidelity audio and are willing to invest a bit more time and effort in installation.
• Coaxial Speakers: Also known as full-range speakers, these combine the tweeter and woofer into a single unit. They are easier to install than component systems and are a good option if you're looking for a simple and affordable upgrade. Coaxial speakers are a popular choice for replacing factory speakers in the doors.

Speaker Size and Mounting

As mentioned earlier, the stock speaker sizes in the 2018 Grand Cherokee are typically 6x9 inch in the front doors and 6.5 inch in the rear doors. When choosing replacement speakers, you can either stick with these sizes or use adapter plates to fit different sizes. For example, you can use a 6.5 inch speaker in a 6x9 inch opening with the appropriate adapter. Make sure to check the mounting depth of the new speakers to ensure they will fit in the door without any clearance issues.

Speaker Sensitivity and Power Handling

• Sensitivity: This rating indicates how efficiently a speaker converts power into sound. A higher sensitivity rating means the speaker will be louder with a given amount of power. If you're using the factory amplifier, choose speakers with a sensitivity of 90 dB or higher.
• Power Handling: This rating indicates the maximum amount of power a speaker can handle without damage. Choose speakers with a power handling rating that matches or exceeds the output of your amplifier. If you're using the factory amplifier, look for speakers with a moderate power handling rating.

Speaker Materials

The materials used in the construction of a speaker can significantly impact its sound quality and durability. Here are some common materials:

• Woofer Cone: Polypropylene, treated paper, and Kevlar are common materials for woofer cones. Polypropylene is durable and weather-resistant, while treated paper offers a more natural sound. Kevlar is lightweight and stiff, providing excellent performance.
• Tweeter Dome: Silk, aluminum, and titanium are common materials for tweeter domes. Silk tweeters produce a smooth and refined sound, while aluminum and titanium tweeters offer a brighter and more detailed sound.
• Surround: Rubber and foam are common materials for speaker surrounds. Rubber surrounds are more durable and weather-resistant than foam surrounds.

Top Speaker Brands to Consider

When it comes to aftermarket speakers, several brands consistently receive high ratings for sound quality, durability, and performance. Here are a few of the top brands to consider:

• JL Audio: Known for their high-end speakers and subwoofers, JL Audio offers exceptional sound quality and performance.
• Rockford Fosgate: A popular choice for car audio enthusiasts, Rockford Fosgate offers a wide range of speakers and amplifiers at various price points.
• Alpine: A well-known brand in the car audio industry, Alpine offers a variety of speakers, receivers, and amplifiers.
• Kenwood: Kenwood offers a range of speakers and receivers known for their reliability and performance.
• Infinity: Infinity speakers are known for their accurate sound reproduction and clear highs.
• Morel: Morel is a high-end speaker manufacturer known for its exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship.

Installation Tips and Considerations

Once you've chosen the right speakers, the next step is installation. If you're comfortable working on your car, you can install the speakers yourself. However, if you're not experienced with car audio installation, it's best to have a professional do the job.

Tools and Materials

Here are some tools and materials you'll need for speaker installation:

• Screwdrivers and Socket Set: For removing door panels and mounting speakers.
• Wire Strippers and Crimpers: For connecting speaker wires.
• Wiring Harness Adapters: These allow you to connect the new speakers to the factory wiring without cutting any wires.
• Speaker Mounting Brackets or Adapters: These are needed if the new speakers are not the same size as the factory speakers.
• Sound Deadening Material: Applying sound deadening material to the doors can improve sound quality by reducing vibrations and external noise.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Here's a general overview of the speaker installation process:

1. Remove the Door Panels: Use a panel removal tool to carefully remove the door panels. Be sure to disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the door panel.
2. Remove the Factory Speakers: Unscrew the factory speakers and disconnect the wiring.
3. Connect the Wiring Harness Adapters: Connect the wiring harness adapters to the factory wiring and the new speakers.
4. Mount the New Speakers: Use speaker mounting brackets or adapters if needed, and screw the new speakers into place.
5. Test the Speakers: Before reassembling the door panels, test the speakers to make sure they are working properly.
6. Reassemble the Door Panels: Reattach the door panels and reconnect any electrical connectors.

Professional Installation

If you're not comfortable installing the speakers yourself, consider having a professional do the job. A professional installer will have the experience and tools necessary to install the speakers correctly and ensure optimal performance. The cost of professional installation will vary depending on the complexity of the job and the installer's rates.

Additional Upgrades for Enhanced Sound

Upgrading your speakers is a great first step, but there are other upgrades you can make to further enhance your sound system:

Adding an Amplifier

An aftermarket amplifier can provide more power to your speakers, resulting in louder and cleaner sound. Choose an amplifier with a power output that matches the power handling of your speakers.

Installing a Subwoofer

A subwoofer can add deep, rich bass to your sound system. Consider adding a subwoofer if you want to feel the music as well as hear it.

Upgrading the Head Unit

The head unit is the control center of your sound system. Upgrading to an aftermarket head unit can provide features like Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and improved sound processing.

Sound Deadening

Applying sound deadening material to your doors, floor, and roof can reduce vibrations and external noise, resulting in a quieter and more enjoyable listening experience.

Conclusion

Upgrading the speakers in your 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee can significantly improve your audio experience. By choosing the right speakers, installing them correctly, and considering additional upgrades, you can create a sound system that rivals those found in high-end luxury vehicles. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start upgrading your sound system today! You'll be cruising with crystal-clear audio in no time!