Pontiac Fiero Speaker Size

Dashboard Speaker

Rear Door Panel Speaker

Pontiac Fiero Speaker FAQ

What speakers should I upgrade first in my Pontiac Fiero?

Replace the dashboard 4 x 10 speakers first. These handle most of your midrange and vocal frequencies - around 80Hz to 8kHz typically. The dashboard position gives better stereo imaging since they're closer to ear level. Rear door speakers mainly fill in bass support below 200Hz, though the 4 x 6 size limits deep bass anyway. You'll notice clearer vocals and instruments immediately with new dashboard units. Consider 50-75 watts RMS handling if you plan to add an amplifier later.

Can I install component speakers in the Pontiac Fiero rear doors?

Yes, the rear door panels accommodate both coaxial and component setups. Component systems separate the tweeter from the woofer - tweeter goes in the door panel, woofer stays in the 4 x 6 opening. This might improve high frequency response since tweeters can angle toward your ears better. The crossover network usually mounts behind the panel. Just verify clearance first. Some Fiero door panels have limited depth, especially if you're running thicker wiring. Coaxials are simpler though - everything in one unit.

Why does my Pontiac Fiero have such an unusual 4 x 10 dashboard speaker size?

The 4 x 10 format maximizes cone area within the dashboard constraints. More cone area generally means better midrange output and efficiency - important since factory head units typically push maybe 15-20 watts per channel. The elongated shape fits the dashboard contour better than round speakers would. This size was fairly common in 80s GM vehicles. Finding replacements is trickier now, but several manufacturers still make quality 4 x 10 units. Pioneer, Kenwood, and a few others offer decent options in the 30-60 watt range.

What impedance should I use for Pontiac Fiero speaker replacements?

Stick with 4-ohm speakers for both locations. The factory Fiero audio system expects 4-ohm loads, and most aftermarket car speakers default to 4 ohms anyway. Using 8-ohm speakers will reduce your power output - maybe dropping from 20 watts to 12 watts per channel with the stock head unit. Lower impedance like 2 ohms might overload the amplifier circuitry. Some people think lower impedance always means more power, but that's not necessarily true with factory electronics. The current draw increases, potentially causing thermal protection to kick in.