So I posted earlier that I’m going have to replace the original subwoofer due to squealing like a pig. Yet I’m not convinced that Kicker is the best solution even though Crutchfield suggests that it will fit my 02 LC. I searched “parting out” without luck but found a good used OEM on eBay for $200, I offered $150 but later sold. Brady Adventure posted a video using a $23 size 6.5” x 2.9” Pyle subwoofer modified by trimming it to fit. However, he commented that it’s just ok sound. With all that work, I like to see same or better than OEM sound quality. Being 8 years old video, any used JBL subwoofer would be 20 years old so I think Kicker should be better than both used OEM and Pyle. I ordered from Crutchfield, subwoofer arrived quickly with installation kit, discounted at $103 size 6.75”x 2.75”. Also I choose Kicker in case I need speakers, they are available for LC and rated 2025 best so future matching speakers.
I follow Brady’s instruction to removed the panel. The OE subwoofer crumble into pieces the minute it got disturbed. Upon removal, the Kicker fits nicely on top of the JBL subwoofer housing without modifications, however the outer ring protrude about 1/4” plus above the original JBL. I don’t feel comfortable to trim as the Pyle is smaller, Kicker fits so perfectly other than the outer ring height. I figured out the wires, nice spring loaded quick disconnect feature, installed the subwoofer using 1 1/2 screws then full blast for a test run. It sounds amazing at full bass with no distortion and definitely better than ever so very pleased! Now looking at the panel, I wonder if it would have enough space for the extended 1/4” so I installed the panel, it pushed the center spacer grill section out a bit may be 1/4”. I removed the panel and see where are the interferences and where to cut the inside grill to clear the outer ring. Then I noticed the panel is missing 3 white retainer clips, ordered the clips and put the panel back on, I put a dap of clear silicone on the clip next to the speaker so that it would hold but the clip above the speaker will require a modification to larger retainer clip or cut the inner grill. Upon final installation since the clip won’t arrive for a week, it looks okay although the gap is there but it’s not noticeable. The interference does not affect the sound quality, after I put back the third seats and sear belts, not noticeable but also not perfect. So here’s my rating on Kicker subwoofer. Overall, 9/10 I’m pleased Kicker subwoofer while she compliments the original JBL speakers.
Pro- excellence sound quality better than OEM using original JBL housing.
Reasonable price, easy installation if you don’t mind a gap on top of the speaker grill area.
Con- not a direct fit while modification required cutting into side panel grill.
I follow Brady’s instruction to removed the panel. The OE subwoofer crumble into pieces the minute it got disturbed. Upon removal, the Kicker fits nicely on top of the JBL subwoofer housing without modifications, however the outer ring protrude about 1/4” plus above the original JBL. I don’t feel comfortable to trim as the Pyle is smaller, Kicker fits so perfectly other than the outer ring height. I figured out the wires, nice spring loaded quick disconnect feature, installed the subwoofer using 1 1/2 screws then full blast for a test run. It sounds amazing at full bass with no distortion and definitely better than ever so very pleased! Now looking at the panel, I wonder if it would have enough space for the extended 1/4” so I installed the panel, it pushed the center spacer grill section out a bit may be 1/4”. I removed the panel and see where are the interferences and where to cut the inside grill to clear the outer ring. Then I noticed the panel is missing 3 white retainer clips, ordered the clips and put the panel back on, I put a dap of clear silicone on the clip next to the speaker so that it would hold but the clip above the speaker will require a modification to larger retainer clip or cut the inner grill. Upon final installation since the clip won’t arrive for a week, it looks okay although the gap is there but it’s not noticeable. The interference does not affect the sound quality, after I put back the third seats and sear belts, not noticeable but also not perfect. So here’s my rating on Kicker subwoofer. Overall, 9/10 I’m pleased Kicker subwoofer while she compliments the original JBL speakers.
Pro- excellence sound quality better than OEM using original JBL housing.
Reasonable price, easy installation if you don’t mind a gap on top of the speaker grill area.
Con- not a direct fit while modification required cutting into side panel grill.
Last edited:
