Ford Tempo Speaker Size
Speaker size, type, and location chart for Ford Tempo models from 1985 to 1994 production years.
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Front Door Panel Speaker
| Years | Type | Size (inch) |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 - 1994 | Midbass / Full-Range | 6.5 |
| 1985 - 1989 | Midbass / Full-Range | 5.25 |
Rear Deck Lid Speaker
| Years | Type | Size (inch) |
|---|---|---|
| 1991 - 1994 | Full-Range | 6x9 |
| 1985 - 1992 | Full-Range | 6x8 |
Dashboard Speaker
| Years | Type | Size (inch) |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 - 1988 | Full-Range | 3.5 |
Ford Tempo Speaker FAQ
Which Ford Tempo speakers should I replace first for the biggest sound improvement?
Replace the front door speakers first. Your Ford Tempo's front doors handle most of the stereo imaging and vocal clarity. The 6.5 inch front speakers (1990-1994) or 5.25 inch units (1985-1989) are your primary sound source. Rear deck speakers mainly fill in background sound. Dashboard 3.5 inch speakers? They're more for ambient fill than serious audio output.
Can I upgrade my Ford Tempo's 5.25 inch front speakers to 6.5 inch without modifications?
No, you'll need mounting brackets or modification. The 5.25 inch openings in 1985-1989 Ford Tempo door panels won't accommodate 6.5 inch speakers directly. Some aftermarket bracket kits exist, but expect custom fabrication work. Stick with quality 5.25 inch components instead - you'll get better sound than forcing larger speakers into undersized spaces.
What's the difference between coaxial and component speakers for my Ford Tempo?
Component speakers separate the tweeter from the woofer for better sound staging. Your Ford Tempo's front doors can handle both types, but components require separate tweeter mounting - usually in the door panel or A-pillar. Coaxial speakers combine everything in one unit, making installation simpler. Components typically sound cleaner because the tweeter isn't fighting the woofer's magnetic field.
Should I keep the Ford Tempo's dashboard speakers or disconnect them?
Keep them connected but don't expect much. The 3.5 inch dashboard speakers in 1985-1988 Ford Tempo models add some high-frequency fill, but they're not critical. They might actually muddy the soundstage if your front components are quality units. Try disconnecting them temporarily - if you don't miss them, leave them out of the circuit.
What power handling should I look for in Ford Tempo replacement speakers?
Target 30-60 watts RMS for front speakers, 20-40 watts for rear. Most Ford Tempo head units push around 15-20 watts per channel, so you don't need high-power speakers unless you're adding an amplifier. The 6x9 rear speakers can handle more power (50-80 watts RMS) but your stock stereo won't drive them hard anyway. Efficiency matters more than power handling in this application.
Are 6x8 or 6x9 speakers better for my Ford Tempo's rear deck?
The 6x9 speakers (1991-1994) typically offer better bass response due to larger cone area. Your Ford Tempo's rear deck can accommodate either size depending on the model year. 6x8 speakers (1985-1992) are easier to find quality options for, though. Both sizes work fine for rear fill duty. The mounting depth might be more limiting than the actual speaker dimensions.