2013 Ford F150 Speaker Size – The Complete Audio Upgrade And Fitment
The 2013 Ford F-150 typically utilizes 6×8-inch speakers for both the front and rear doors, providing a standard footprint for most aftermarket upgrades. While this size is consistent across most trim levels, specific configurations like the Sony Premium Audio system may include additional tweeters and a center-channel speaker. Knowing these dimensions ensures you select the right components for a seamless, professional-grade installation.
Do you feel like your truck’s audio system is sounding a bit muddy or lacks the crispness it once had? You are not alone, as factory paper-cone speakers often degrade over a decade of use and exposure to temperature swings. Replacing these units is one of the most rewarding DIY projects you can tackle in your driveway.
Finding the correct 2013 ford f150 speaker size is the essential first step to ensuring your new hardware fits behind the factory grilles without modification. This guide will walk you through every dimension, tool, and technical hurdle you might encounter during the process. We will provide the expert insights you need to upgrade your sound system with total confidence.
Whether you drive a base XL or a fully loaded Platinum, understanding your specific cab layout is vital for a perfect fit. From mounting depths to wiring harness adapters, we have covered every detail to help you avoid common installation headaches. Let’s dive into the specifics of your F-150’s audio landscape.
Understanding the 2013 ford f150 speaker size
The 2013 Ford F-150 is a versatile beast, but when it comes to the doors, Ford kept things relatively simple. For the vast majority of these trucks, the standard 2013 ford f150 speaker size is 6×8 inches. This oval-shaped design is a staple for Ford vehicles of this era, offering a decent amount of surface area for mid-bass response.
It is important to note that many 5×7-inch aftermarket speakers are also marketed as compatible. This is because most 5×7 speakers come with multi-hole mounting brackets that align perfectly with 6×8 factory holes. However, sticking with a true 6×8 often provides a slight advantage in cone surface area, which can lead to better low-end performance.
Before you buy, you must consider the mounting depth available inside the door cavity. While the 6×8 footprint is standard, a speaker that is too deep might interfere with the window glass as it rolls down. Always check the top-mount depth specifications on your new speakers to ensure they do not exceed 2.5 to 3 inches.
Standard Door Speaker Dimensions
In almost every cab configuration—Regular Cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew—the front doors house the 6×8 units. These are full-range speakers from the factory, meaning they handle everything from the low thumps to the high-frequency vocals. Upgrading to a high-quality coaxial speaker here will provide an immediate boost in clarity.
Compatibility with 5×7 Alternatives
If you find a pair of 5×7 speakers that you absolutely love, do not hesitate to use them. Most high-end audio brands design their 5×7 and 6×8 speakers to be interchangeable. Just ensure the mounting flange includes the necessary holes for the Ford four-bolt pattern.
Front Door Speaker Details and Dimensions
The front doors are where you spend most of your time listening, so they deserve the most attention. Accessing these speakers requires removing the entire interior door panel. While this sounds daunting, it is a straightforward process involving a few hidden screws and plastic clips.
The factory front speakers are usually rated at 4 ohms, which is the standard for most automotive head units. When selecting replacements, stick to 4-ohm speakers to avoid putting unnecessary strain on your factory radio or amplifier. If you install 2-ohm speakers, you risk overheating the internal circuitry of the dash unit.
If your F-150 is equipped with the luxury package, you may notice tweeters mounted in the A-pillars near the windshield. In this setup, the front door speaker acts more like a mid-bass driver. You can still use a standard 6×8, but a component speaker system might offer a more refined soundstage.
Mounting Depth Constraints
The front doors of the 2013 F-150 have plenty of room for most standard speakers. However, if you choose a “pro-audio” style speaker with a massive magnet, you might need a spacer ring. A 1/2-inch plastic spacer can provide the clearance needed to keep the magnet away from the window track.
Wiring and Connectors
Ford uses a specific plastic plug for their speaker connections. Rather than cutting your factory wires, we highly recommend using wiring harness adapters. These adapters plug directly into the Ford harness and provide spade connectors for your new speakers, making the job “plug and play.”
Rear Door Variations for SuperCab and SuperCrew
The rear 2013 ford f150 speaker size remains 6×8, but the physical environment changes depending on your cab style. In a SuperCrew (the large four-door), the rear doors are full-sized and very similar to the fronts. This makes the installation process nearly identical for all four corners of the truck.
In the SuperCab (the version with the smaller, rear-hinged “suicide” doors), the space inside the door is much tighter. You still use a 6×8 speaker, but the internal bracing of the door can be more restrictive. It is crucial to verify that your chosen speaker does not have an oversized tweeter housing that might hit the door panel grille.
For those with a Regular Cab, the rear speakers are located in the side pillars behind the seats. These are also 6×8 inches. Because these locations are smaller and more enclosed, they can sometimes produce a boomy sound. Adding a small amount of poly-fill insulation behind the speaker can help tighten up the bass response.
SuperCrew Rear Door Nuances
The SuperCrew rear doors provide excellent acoustic volume for 6×8 speakers. If you are looking for more bass without adding a subwoofer, look for 6x8s with a high excursion rating. These speakers can move more air, providing a fuller sound for the passengers in the back.
SuperCab Mounting Tips
When working on the SuperCab rear doors, be careful with the wiring harness that passes through the door hinge. Over time, these wires can become brittle. While you have the panel off, inspect the protective boot for any tears or signs of moisture intrusion.
The Sony Premium Audio Exception
If your truck has the Sony logo on the door grilles or the dash, your 2013 ford f150 speaker size requirements get a little more complex. This system uses an external amplifier located under the center console or behind the rear seat. The speakers in this system are often impedance-matched specifically for that amp.
The Sony system includes a 3.5-inch center-channel speaker located in the middle of the upper dashboard. This speaker is responsible for “pulling” the soundstage to the center of the vehicle. If you upgrade the door speakers, you should also consider a high-quality 3.5-inch replacement here to maintain tonal balance.
Additionally, the Sony system features an 8-inch subwoofer housed in a plastic enclosure under the rear passenger seat. While the door speakers remain 6×8, the way they receive power is different. They are often crossed over at the amplifier, meaning they only receive certain frequencies. Replacing them requires careful selection to ensure they play well with the factory DSP (Digital Signal Processor).
A-Pillar Tweeters
In the Sony-equipped F-150, the A-pillar tweeters are roughly 1 inch in diameter. Replacing these often requires a bit of custom work, such as using back-straps or hot glue to secure the new tweeter in the factory location. Upgrading these tweeters is the best way to restore “shimmer” to your high-end frequencies.
The Center Channel Speaker
The 3.5-inch dash speaker is often overlooked. However, it is a critical component for voice clarity and navigation prompts. Look for a speaker with a high sensitivity rating, as the factory amplifier does not provide a massive amount of wattage to this specific channel.
Essential Tools for the DIY Mechanic
Before you begin your journey to better sound, gather the right tools to prevent damaging your interior. Ford uses specific fasteners that require more than just a standard screwdriver. Having the correct socket sizes on hand will save you multiple trips to the toolbox.
You will need a 7mm socket for most of the door panel screws. Interestingly, Ford also uses 5.5mm screws in some locations, which is a size not found in every basic tool kit. A dedicated set of plastic trim removal tools is also essential. These allow you to pry on plastic panels without scratching the paint or gouging the upholstery.
Safety is also a factor when working with vehicle electronics. While speaker wires carry low voltage, it is always a “pro-tip” to disconnect the negative battery terminal before you start. This prevents any accidental shorts if a wire touches the metal frame of the door while you are working.
- 7mm and 5.5mm Sockets: Used for removing the main door panel fasteners.
- Plastic Trim Tools: For popping the window switch panels and screw covers.
- Wire Strippers/Crimpers: If you choose not to use plug-and-play adapters.
- Torx T20 Driver: Occasionally needed for specific interior trim pieces.
- Flashlight: To see the hidden clips inside the dark door cavity.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Now that you know the 2013 ford f150 speaker size and have your tools, it is time to get to work. Start by removing the small plastic cover behind the interior door handle. This usually hides a 7mm or 8mm bolt. Next, pry up the window switch assembly carefully and disconnect the wiring harnesses.
Once the hidden screws are removed (usually two at the bottom of the door and one or two behind the handle), the panel is ready to come off. In the 2013 F-150, the panel does not “pop” off toward you; instead, it slides upward. Lift the entire panel vertically to clear the mounting hooks, then unhook the door latch cable.
With the panel removed, you will see the factory 6×8 speaker held in by four screws. Remove these, pull the speaker out, and unplug the harness. Connect your new speaker using the adapter, screw it back into the factory holes, and test the sound before you put the door panel back on. This ensures everything is working and there are no rattles.
- Remove all hidden screws from the door panel (handle, pocket, and bottom).
- Disconnect the window and lock switch wiring harnesses.
- Lift the door panel straight up to unhook it from the door frame.
- Unscrew the factory speaker and disconnect the wiring plug.
- Install the new speaker using a wiring adapter and the original screws.
- Reassemble the door panel in reverse order, ensuring the latch cable is secure.
Troubleshooting and Sound Quality Optimization
Sometimes, even with the perfect 2013 ford f150 speaker size, the sound might not be exactly what you expected. If the bass feels weak, you might have a phase issue. This happens if the positive and negative wires are swapped on one speaker, causing the two speakers to cancel each other’s sound waves.
Another common issue is “door rattle.” High-quality aftermarket speakers move much more than factory ones, which can cause the thin metal of the door to vibrate. Applying a few sheets of butyl rubber sound dampening material around the speaker hole can dramatically improve mid-bass punch and reduce road noise.
If you find that the high frequencies are too “bright” or piercing, check if your speakers have a tweeter attenuation switch. Many coaxial speakers allow you to drop the tweeter output by 3 decibels. This is particularly helpful in the F-150, where the speakers are mounted relatively high on the door panel.
Checking for Air Leaks
For a speaker to perform its best, the front of the cone must be sealed from the back. If there are gaps between the speaker and the door metal, you will lose bass. Using a foam gasket kit (often called “Fast Rings”) can seal the speaker against the door panel, directing all the sound into the cabin.
Proper Wiring Polarity
Always double-check your wiring. Most wiring adapters are color-coded, but if you are splicing, the wire with the black stripe is usually the negative. Keeping your speakers “in phase” is the simplest way to ensure your system sounds professional and full-bodied.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 ford f150 speaker size
Can I fit 6.5-inch round speakers in my 2013 F-150?
Yes, you can fit 6.5-inch speakers, but you will need a mounting adapter bracket. Many audiophiles prefer 6.5-inch speakers because there is a wider variety of high-end component sets available in that size compared to the 6×8 oval size.
Do I need to replace the factory head unit to get better sound?
While a new head unit provides more power and features, simply replacing the speakers will offer a significant improvement in clarity. The factory speakers are the weakest link in the 2013 F-150 audio chain.
What is the mounting depth limit for the front doors?
You should aim for a speaker with a top-mount depth of 3 inches or less. If you go deeper, the magnet may interfere with the window glass. If you must use deeper speakers, a 1/2-inch spacer ring is usually enough to solve the problem.
Are the front and rear speakers the same size?
Yes, in the Regular Cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew models, both the front and rear locations use the 6×8-inch standard. This makes it easy to buy two pairs of the same speakers for a uniform sound throughout the truck.
Does the Sony system use different size speakers?
The main door speakers in the Sony system are still 6×8 inches. However, the system adds a 3.5-inch center dash speaker and 1-inch A-pillar tweeters, along with an 8-inch subwoofer under the rear seat.
Final Thoughts on Your Audio Upgrade
Upgrading your truck’s audio is a journey that starts with the simple knowledge of the 2013 ford f150 speaker size. By choosing the right 6×8 or 5×7 units, you ensure a fit that looks factory but sounds like a high-end studio. Remember to take your time with the door panels and use the right tools to protect your interior plastics.
Don’t forget the small details like sound dampening and wiring adapters, as these often make the difference between a “good” install and a “great” one. If you ever feel overwhelmed by the wiring or the Sony system’s complexity, don’t hesitate to consult a local car audio professional. Most shops are happy to help with the more technical aspects of an install.
Now it is time to grab your 7mm socket and start transforming your driving experience. There is nothing quite like hitting the road or the trail with your favorite tracks playing through a crisp, clear set of new speakers. Stay safe, enjoy the process, and enjoy the music!
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