If you’ve ever listened to music in a Toyota RAV4 without the premium audio package, you probably noticed that the sound quality isn’t great.
Luckily, there’s a simple solution to the Toyota Rav4 speaker upgrade: replacing the dashboard speakers with higher-quality ones.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of swapping out your stock dashboard speakers for JBL speakers. It’s a straightforward task that anyone can tackle, and it won’t break the bank. Plus, the improvement in sound quality is significant.
This step-by-step tutorial is specifically tailored for RAV4 models from 2019 to 2022. If you happen to own a 2022 model, make sure to pay close attention to the important note provided in the “Materials Needed” section.
My Experience with Upgrading the Speakers
Before upgrading my RAV4 speakers, I wasn’t impressed with the sound quality. I felt uncertain about the whole upgrade process because I’d never done anything like it before. It seemed like a daunting task.
However, after doing some research, I realized that upgrading the dashboard speakers was quite simple. So, I decided to take the plunge and buy the new speakers.
Let me tell you, the difference in sound quality blew me away! I wish I had known about this upgrade earlier. And installing them was a breeze (as I’ll explain shortly).
When I removed the old speakers, I could immediately feel the difference in quality. The new ones were solid and sturdy, while the old ones felt cheap and flimsy.
Now, there is one thing I’ve noticed about these speakers: they don’t handle high volumes well in cold weather. When it’s freezing outside and I crank up the volume, I sometimes hear some popping or static. However, it’s not a big deal because it only happens at high volumes, and once the car warms up, the issue goes away. Overall, it’s just a minor inconvenience.
Necessary Materials for the Upgrade
Before you start, make sure you have these items ready:
- Two JBL CLUB3020 3.5″ speakers
- Red Wolf wiring harness (If you have a 2022 RAV4, read the important note below)
- 10mm wrench
- Plastic wedge or screwdriver (it’s better to use a plastic wedge)
Important Note for 2022 RAV4 Owners:
If you have a 2022 RAV4, there’s a crucial point to note about the Red Wolf wiring harness. Some owners have found that its polarity isn’t correct for this model. This means you might have to adjust the wiring harness to make it work properly.
If you’re not sure how to reverse the polarity of a wiring harness, it might be best to skip this tutorial and seek help from a professional at an accessory shop.
I’m currently on the lookout for a wiring harness that’s compatible with the 2022 RAV4. Once I find one, I’ll update this tutorial with the necessary information.
Owners of 2019-2021 RAV4 models don’t need to worry about this issue.
You should also visit: Why Are Toyota Rav4 So Expensive?
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for installing your new speakers:
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
Make sure you have all the materials listed earlier: the JBL CLUB3020 speakers, a Red Wolf wiring harness (if needed), a 10mm wrench, and a plastic wedge or screwdriver.
Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace
Park your RAV4 in a well-lit area and open the doors for better access to the dashboard speakers. You may want to lay down a towel or blanket to protect the interior from scratches.
Step 3: Remove the Old Speakers
Using your plastic wedge or screwdriver, gently pry off the speaker grille covering the dashboard speakers. Once removed, unscrew the old speakers using the 10mm wrench. Carefully disconnect the wiring harness from the speakers.
Step 4: Install the New Speakers
Attach the Red Wolf wiring harness to the new JBL speakers, making sure the polarity is correct. Then, carefully place the new speakers into the speaker housing and screw them in securely.
Step 5: Test the Speakers
Before reassembling everything, turn on your RAV4’s audio system and test the new speakers to ensure they’re working correctly. Adjust the volume and listen for any distortion or unusual sounds.
Step 6: Reassemble and Enjoy
If everything sounds good, reattach the speaker grille and make sure it’s securely in place. Double-check all connections and then sit back, relax, and enjoy your upgraded audio experience!
That’s it! You’ve successfully installed new speakers in your Toyota RAV4. Enjoy your improved sound quality on your next drive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, upgrading the speakers in your Toyota RAV4 can greatly enhance your driving experience by delivering better sound quality. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy clearer audio and richer tones during your daily commute or road trips. Don’t hesitate to make this affordable and worthwhile upgrade to elevate your enjoyment behind the wheel.
