Saturn SL2 Speaker Size

Front Door Panel Speaker

Rear Deck Lid Speaker

Rear Door Panel Speaker

Saturn SL2 Speaker FAQ

What speakers should I replace first in my Saturn SL2?

Replace the front door panel speakers first. They handle most vocals and midrange frequencies that you hear directly. The 6.5-inch front speakers in your Saturn SL2 carry about 70% of what makes music sound clear or muddy. Rear speakers mostly fill in ambient sound. If you're on a budget, upgrading just the fronts will give you the biggest improvement in sound quality.

Can I install component speakers in my Saturn SL2 rear door panels?

Yes, but only for 1991-1999 models since they had rear door speakers. Component speakers separate the tweeter from the woofer, which typically improves imaging. You'll need to mount the 6.5-inch woofers in the existing door location and find spots for the tweeters - usually in the door panels or A-pillars. The crossovers can go behind the door panel. Just remember that rear components don't always provide as much benefit since you're not facing them directly.

Why did Saturn SL2 move rear speakers from doors to deck lid?

Starting in 2000, Saturn SL2 moved the rear speakers to the deck lid, probably for cost and space reasons. Deck-mounted speakers can actually sound more spacious since they fire upward and reflect off the rear window. However, they're harder to replace and the sound might seem disconnected from the front stage. The 6.5-inch size stayed the same, so power handling shouldn't change much. Some people prefer the door-mounted setup from earlier years for better integration.

What power rating should I look for in Saturn SL2 replacement speakers?

Most aftermarket 6.5-inch speakers for the Saturn SL2 should handle 50-100 watts RMS. The factory head unit probably puts out around 15-20 watts per channel, so almost any decent speaker will be an upgrade. If you're planning to add an amplifier later, look for speakers rated around 75-100 watts RMS. Higher power handling doesn't automatically mean better sound - sensitivity rating (measured in dB) matters more for how loud they'll play with your current setup.

Do full-range speakers work better than coaxials in Saturn SL2?

Full-range speakers might actually work well in the Saturn SL2, especially in rear positions. They're simpler designs without separate tweeters, so they can sound more cohesive. Coaxials typically offer better high-frequency response since they have dedicated tweeters. The choice depends on your music preferences - full-range speakers often sound warmer and less harsh, while coaxials can be brighter and more detailed. For a budget upgrade, decent full-range 6.5-inch speakers might give you better value than cheap coaxials.