I popped the speaker covers off and can't figure out how to take the speaker out. Do I have to take the door panel off? If so, how do I do that? Thanks.

Are there any step-by-step instructions on how to do audio system work on the XJ8? Like how to take the radio out of the dash, how to replace speakers, how to access the tweeters? Etc.?

Just noticed that the title is wrong -- Should say "How DO I Replace Front Speakers?"

 

Front door card removal is straightforward Mike,

1. locate the 2 screws first, one is hidden behind the door release, you'll see a small black cap behind it is the screw. Remove the handle trim piece - the second is underneath the arm rest.
2. release the wood trim, use a plastic lever to pop the rear of the trim and slide it back until the prongs release, don't bend it.
3. door card trim clips - I use a trim removal tool, but a paint scrapper wrapped in cotton to protect the paint works, run it around the edge of the card to release the fir tree clips holding the card to the door.
4. the big clip. a sharp tug, holding onto the arm rest will release it.
5. wiring - there are a couple of wires to release, first is the puddle light then the window switch then the speaker. The panel is then free to work on.

The speaker is a 6.5" or 160mm size. It's fixed to the card from the rear as you're aware - held in with 4 screws. If your going to use aftermarket speakers yu'll have to either fit adaptors or cut and add female spade connectors to the speaker ends.

Hope this helps.

By the way, if your replacing the headunit - search for 'ski slope', 'center console removal' etc on here, use the search function it's all been done before

 

Thanks again! Your help is greatly appreciated!

I've been trying to use the search function but haven't found anything as great as your post (although your post DID come up in my search results! LOL).

My two front speakers are blown/torn/worn out and must be replaced! I was wondering what kind of problems I might run into replacing them. I'm not all that experienced in replacing electronics in cars -- but I have been know to dive into a project with the proper instructions.

Question -- would local audio sellers (like Best Buy) have the adapter that you're talking about? I have no idea what you mean by "cut and add female spade connectors!" LOL Told you I'm not all that experienced! ha ha

Thanks again, I really love this forum!

 

Replacing the front speakers is a breeze, thanks to the help I got in this forum. The door panels are a snap (no pun intended) to take off and the speakers are simply 6 1/2" 4 ohm speakers - easy to find and install.

 

The speaker covers are stapled to the interior door trim panel. I don't know how you got the covers off without removing the panels.

I have replaced the covers and I don't use staples upon installation so maybe someone already replaced them at some time.

bob gauff

 

Someone had already removed the driver's side since it had no staples, the passenger's side had staples and was a bear to remove! LOL I carefully pried it off with a screwdriver and didn't cause any damage.

Because I wanted to get this project done while on vacation, I had the guy at the audio shop crimp female spade connectors onto the speaker wires (after clipping off the factory connector) and all I had to do was slip them on! He didn't charge me to do that, but I slipped him a few bucks for doing it.