I replaced the subwoofer in my wife’s 2004 Montero with the help of sarb25’s post. That was a great post and it really helped me out. I took pictures as well as made revisions to the guidelines that sarb25 provided. And, outy, thanks for the showing me the best ways to post the pics.
Tools: Phillips screwdriver, flathead screwdriver, ratchet (or wrench), hammer, panel tool (purchased from Crutchfield a few years ago. Keeps you from scratching panels), your kid’s volleyball, soccer ball, or small basketball.
Product: 8 inch subwoofer (I purchased a Kicker sub from Crutchfield for $50).
Step 1: Your main goal is going to be to remove the two left rear interior panels that are back there to expose the subwoofer. These two panels being the one covering the subwoofer and the panel above it. The top panel must be removed first because it overlaps the bottom one. Extend the left grab handle and use a flathead screwdriver to pop off the covers that are adjacent to the spring loaded hinges. Also, I removed the third row but realized after the install that I could have left it collapsed in it’s compartment.
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Remove the screws that mount the grab handle to the ceiling by using a Phillips screwdriver
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Step 2: Unlock the latch for the rear quarter window and open the window.
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Step 3: Pry the panel from the body of the Montero. I used a “panel tool” that I bought from Crutchfield. It’s a metal device in the shape of a Y with rounded edges.
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Step 4: After the clips have released, pull the panel toward you and lay it on the cargo floor. It’s still attached to the car by the rear seat belt.
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Step 5: Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the three gold screws connecting the bottom panel to the body of the car.
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Step 6: Pry the panel away from the car and place a medium sized ball between the panel and the car body.
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Step 7: You will now see that the subwoofer is bolted and glued into the vehicle. Remove the bolts and you might have to pry the sub off with a little bit of force because of the glue.
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Step 8: Install the new subwoofer. Due to the different shape of the subwoofer frame (Kicker had a round frame and Infiniti had a square frame) I had to get creative on the install since I didn’t have any metal pieces of sufficient shape . Never underestimate the power of zip ties. Also, the wiring harness didn’t match up with the new subwoofer at all. I can post details on that if anyone is interested. I know this looks tacky, but it works. Once the panels are back in place, the ugly is hidden away.
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