Radio Upgrade Guide for Jeep Wranglers — Touchscreen, Sound, and More

Choosing a New Radio

Modern aftermarket radios offer touchscreen displays, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth hands-free calling, navigation, and improved sound quality. For JK and JL Wranglers, the double-DIN size fits most aftermarket radios. For TJ Wranglers, the opening is a single-DIN or double-DIN depending on the trim level. A double-DIN radio with a 6.5 to 7 inch touchscreen is the most popular upgrade for JK and JL Wranglers.

Look for a radio with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. These features project your smartphone's interface onto the radio screen, giving you access to maps, music, messaging, and apps. The interface is familiar and updates automatically through your phone. This is a much better experience than the built-in navigation systems on aftermarket radios, which require separate map updates and are often slow to operate.

Installation Considerations

Installing an aftermarket radio in a Wrangler requires a wiring harness adapter that connects the aftermarket radio to the factory wiring without cutting any wires. A mounting kit fills the gap between the radio and the factory opening. For JK and JL Wranglers with factory steering wheel controls, an interface module is needed to retain those functions. Without the interface module, the steering wheel controls will not work with the aftermarket radio.

The installation also needs to account for the Wrangler's unique environment. The radio needs to be visible in direct sunlight, so a radio with a bright display (800 nits or higher) is recommended. The radio needs to handle temperature extremes — Wranglers get hot inside when parked in the sun and cold in winter. Marine-rated or UV-resistant radios are more durable in these conditions.

Speaker Upgrades

The factory speakers in Wranglers are adequate for a basic audio system but are the weakest link in sound quality. Upgrading the speakers to aftermarket units provides the most noticeable improvement in audio quality. The JK Wrangler has 4-inch speakers in the sound bar and 6.5-inch speakers in the front lower doors. Component speaker systems with separate tweeters and woofers provide better sound staging than coaxial speakers.

Adding a powered subwoofer under the seat or in the cargo area adds bass that the factory system lacks. An amplifier is needed to drive aftermarket speakers to their full potential. Many owners add a small 4-channel amplifier under the driver's seat to power the upgraded speakers, plus a monoblock amplifier for a subwoofer. Keep the amplifier mount location dry — the Wrangler interior is not sealed and can get wet from rain or water crossings.

Bottom Line

An aftermarket radio with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is the best upgrade for your Wrangler. Use the correct wiring harness and mounting kit for your model. Upgrade the speakers at the same time for the best improvement in sound quality. A powered subwoofer and small amplifier take the system to the next level. Choose a radio with a bright display for visibility in direct sunlight.

---

Look up AMSOIL products for your Wrangler

Back to the Jeep Wrangler Problems Guide

To order AMSOIL at wholesale pricing visit Where Can I Buy Amsoil Oil.