How to - Subaru/Toyota(3rd Gen) Tweeter Upgrade (Holy S***)

NOTE: THIS WILL NOT WORK ON JBL TECH/PREMIUM PACKAGE TACOS




UPDATE 7/8/2022:
Since doing this update I have found a much much better set of plug-and-play speakers from DS18. They plug right into the factory harness and dramatically outperform the factory, and the kicker speakers.

• DS18 Plug and Play Speakers: https://amzn.to/3upIJW0
• Video on the Install: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9YkcRHho7M

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UPDATE 7/6/2018:
If anyone is interested I did a full install write-up for the full set of kicker speakers in another post.

Check it out here: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-installing-new-speakers-in-your-3rd-gen.557032/

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Alright first of let me say this is my first Tacoma but I am a DIYer and auto mechanic so I have been doing work on cars/trucks/diesel machines for years and years. I run a DIY Youtube Channel for Classic Mini Coopers (Classic Mini DIY) - https://www.youtube.com/c/classicminidiy

I bought this Tacoma to be able to tow the mini and in general to have a reliable vehicle when the Mini inevitably breaks down. But after getting into the truck and living with it for a bit I was super disappointed with the sound quality of the stock audio system. Did a bunch of research and learned about these tweeters. Holy s*** you guys this these things completely change the sound system in this truck. Night and day. I don't think 98 dollars could be better spent on a mod for this truck if you have the stock sound system.

So for anyone looking at how to do this check out the directions below. Super easy, can be done in less than 30 minutes and they literally are plug and play.

Parts List:

• DS18 Plug and Play Speakers: https://amzn.to/3upIJW0
• Non-Marring Panel Pullers - https://amzn.to/2ILrQvr
• 10mm Socket Wrench
• 10mm Wrench

Step 1 - Take the A-Pillar and Cover:


Step 2 - Unbolt the old speaker:


Step 3 - Unplug the old Speaker


Step 4 - Plug in the new ones


Step 5 - Bolt in and return panels to the original placement


Step 6 - Enjoy your music!!

 

They really change the sound quality, Nice write up.

 

Thanks! It really blew me away. I didn't think something so small could change the sound so much. O_O

 

Wow, look at that crappy OEM tweeter. Thanks for the tip.

 

Literally paper

 

I’m doing this soon, along with the Kicker door speakers. These trucks audio needs to be better for sure.

 

Are the kicker door speakers plug and play as well?

 

need to unplug the battery for airbag?

 

With your intriguing write up, I think I'll order some. I'm at the point of hating the sound and I think I already blew out the fronts. Both fronts are extremely scratchy sounding... an issue I've had before with blown speakers.

 

Nah you aren't touching any of those wires. Just take your time and pull the panels off with care.

 

Honestly, mine sounded scratching and just generally meh from day one. I think they just sound blown from the factory.

 

Sundown audio makes stock replacement speaker that size that is also another good option for 69 bucks(per set)

 

Do you have a link? I can post it in the OP so people can see some options.

 

SA-2.75FR - Sundown Audio 2.75" 20W RMS High Performance Neodymium Full Range Speaker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NO70ZO2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_VsWTAb2ARVWXW

 

They test models were stress tested for 8 hours straight full 20 watts i beleive. Most headunits are 14 to 22 watts, oem deck is probably less

 

You can order adapters for them or if you go to crutchfield.com they include the adapters and door adapters you will need for them as well. The door speakers are a bit more involved but certainly provide a more crisp mid and low end. Highly recommend doing them as well.
Reuse the stock speaker bolts to mount the door speakers adapters, then included screw to mount speakers to the adapters. I learned the hard way......

 

I definitely recommend Crutchfield.com. They're always my "Go To" for component speakers.

 

I spent the money and put an entire OEM audio system in and it came with the amp and all 6 speakers and I also added sound deadening material for a total of 360 watts and what a difference.. I got tired of turning the volume up to 40 on the highway before you could hear it so I am very pleased with the upgrade and even what you did should make a difference, the factory speakers are pretty bad..good job..

 

I trust sundown with my hard earned money. They under rate everything they make.

 

I did this, along with some nice JL 3 ways. Wish I would have gone component from the get go, too many tweeters up front. You can get a decent component set for $150 that is at least $50 cheaper than doing these tweeters plus some coaxials and it will sound substantially better as well.