2018 Nissan Sentra Door Speaker Size

Alright, let's talk about upgrading the door speakers in your 2018 Nissan Sentra. A speaker upgrade is one of the most impactful modifications you can make to improve your car's audio quality, and knowing the correct speaker sizes beforehand is crucial to avoid headaches down the road. We'll break down the sizes you need and some considerations you should keep in mind during the installation process.

Front Door Speakers

The front doors of the 2018 Nissan Sentra typically accommodate 6.5-inch speakers. However, it's not always that straightforward. Sometimes, Nissan uses what we call a "component system," which means the mids and highs are separated for better sound staging. Let’s dig a little deeper.

Checking for Component Systems

A component system usually consists of a woofer (the 6.5-inch speaker we mentioned) in the door and a separate tweeter, often located in the A-pillar or the dashboard. If you see a small speaker grille in one of these locations, you likely have a component system. If you are planning to replace the front speakers as a component system. you’ll have to consider buying aftermarket components. Component speakers often deliver a higher quality and fuller sound than coaxials.

Factory Speaker Depth and Mounting

Beyond the diameter, speaker depth is a crucial factor. The depth refers to the distance from the mounting surface to the back of the speaker. In the 2018 Sentra, you generally have about 2.5 to 3 inches of mounting depth available in the front doors. However, it's always a good idea to measure the available space yourself before purchasing new speakers. You can do this by removing the factory speaker and measuring from the mounting surface to the window regulator or any other obstruction behind the speaker.

Also, consider the mounting pattern. The factory speakers are often held in place by plastic rivets or screws. When installing aftermarket speakers, you may need to use a speaker adapter or mounting bracket to ensure a secure fit. These brackets are readily available online and from car audio retailers, and they're well worth the investment to simplify the installation process.

Rear Door Speakers

The rear doors of the 2018 Nissan Sentra typically also utilize 6.5-inch speakers. Just like the front, it’s worth confirming before ordering any parts.

Depth and Mounting Considerations

The rear door speaker depth is usually similar to the front, in the 2.5 to 3 inch range. Again, measure to be sure. The mounting method also mirrors the front; you’ll probably need an adapter bracket for many aftermarket speakers.

Coaxial vs. Component for the Rear?

While some people opt for component systems in the rear, most often, coaxial speakers are used. Coaxial speakers combine the woofer and tweeter into a single unit, making installation simpler and often more cost-effective. Since the rear sound stage is less critical than the front, coaxial speakers are usually a great option for upgrading the rear audio. Many owners prioritize the front speakers and use the rears to fill in the overall sound.

Technical Considerations and Definitions

Let’s dive into some technical aspects to help you make informed decisions when choosing your new speakers. This will cover terminology you are likely to hear.

Power Handling (RMS and Peak)

Power handling is a critical specification. RMS (Root Mean Square) power is the amount of continuous power the speaker can handle safely. Peak power is the maximum burst of power the speaker can handle for a short period. Always prioritize RMS power when matching speakers to your amplifier or head unit. Make sure your amplifier's RMS output per channel matches or slightly exceeds the RMS power handling of your speakers.

Sensitivity (dB)

Sensitivity, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud a speaker will be for a given amount of power. A speaker with a higher sensitivity rating (e.g., 90dB) will be louder than a speaker with a lower sensitivity rating (e.g., 87dB) when both are powered by the same amplifier. If you're using the factory head unit's power, look for speakers with higher sensitivity to maximize volume.

Frequency Response (Hz)

Frequency response is the range of frequencies a speaker can reproduce, typically measured in Hertz (Hz). The human hearing range is roughly 20Hz to 20kHz. A wider frequency response generally indicates a speaker's ability to reproduce a more complete range of sounds. Pay attention to this number if you value hearing details, however, consider that the amplifier and headunit also affect the total frequency response.

Impedance (Ohms)

Impedance, measured in Ohms, is the speaker's resistance to the electrical current. Most car speakers are 4 Ohms. It is important to match the impedance of your speakers to the impedance that the amplifier is designed to handle. Using speakers with the wrong impedance can damage your amplifier.

Installation Tips

Here are some tips for a smooth speaker installation in your 2018 Nissan Sentra:

Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery before working on the electrical system. This prevents shorts and potential damage.

Use the Right Tools: Have the necessary tools on hand, including a panel removal tool, screwdrivers, wire strippers, crimpers, and a multimeter.

Wiring Adapters: Use speaker wiring adapters to connect the new speakers to the factory wiring harness. This avoids cutting the factory wires and makes the installation reversible.

Sound Deadening: Consider adding sound-deadening material to the inside of the door panels to reduce vibrations and improve sound quality. This can significantly enhance the bass response and clarity of your speakers.

Test Before Reassembly: Before putting everything back together, test the speakers to ensure they are working correctly.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with careful planning, you might encounter some common issues:

Speaker Doesn't Fit: If the speaker is too deep, you might need to use speaker spacers or mounting rings to push the speaker further out.
No Sound: Double-check all wiring connections and ensure the speaker polarity is correct (+ and -). If you are using an amplifier, verify that it is properly powered and connected.
Buzzing or Rattling: This could be caused by loose speaker mounting or vibrations in the door panel. Tighten the mounting screws and add sound-deadening material to address the vibrations.
Poor Sound Quality: Ensure that the speaker's RMS power handling is compatible with your amplifier's output. If using the factory head unit, consider adding an aftermarket amplifier to provide more power.

Upgrading the Head Unit

While upgrading the speakers is a great starting point, you might also consider upgrading the head unit for even better sound quality and features. An aftermarket head unit can provide more power, advanced sound processing capabilities, and connectivity options like Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Upgrading the head unit would also give you more control over the EQ and sound stage.

Conclusion

Replacing the door speakers in your 2018 Nissan Sentra is a relatively straightforward upgrade that can significantly improve your listening experience. By understanding the correct speaker sizes, depth limitations, and the technical aspects of speaker specifications, you can choose the right speakers for your needs and enjoy a more immersive and enjoyable driving experience. Remember to measure, plan carefully, and don't hesitate to consult with a car audio professional if you need assistance.