2020-2025 Subaru Outback

Overview of the Subaru Outback

If the all-new-for-2020 Subaru Outback looks a lot like the outgoing model, well, there’s a reason for that. The Outback became Subaru’s best-selling model by being the kind of vehicle Subaru owners really like, so why make huge changes?

There are tons of differences inside and out, of course, but they're subtle. Subaru fans will recognize them instantly, but if you replace your Gen 5 with a Gen 6 in the same color, most of your neighbors won't even notice. And if you're like many Outback owners we know, that'll suit you just fine.

The stock stereo systems are okay, especially the premium versions, but everything always sounds better with aftermarket gear. While you can’t replace the stock receivers, you can make your music really sing with an all-around speaker upgrade. Read on to learn more about what you can do and how to do it.

This generously-proportioned 11" LCD handles music and a whole lot more (Crutchfield Research Photo)

The factory stereo system

In the center of the Outback’s dash, you’ll find either a reasonably large twin-screen LCD or an astonishingly large 11.6" LCD. We don’t even refer to these displays as “radios” because they’re much, much more than that. We do appreciate the volume and tuning knobs, though, and we’re guessing you do, too.

Detailed stereo and speaker removal instructions

With step-by-step disassembly instructions and plenty of up-close, detailed photos, our exclusive Crutchfield ResearchNotes™ takes the guesswork out of removing the factory stereo and speakers. It's free with your Crutchfield order, or you can purchase one separately for just $9.99.

Due to the fact that the climate controls are thoroughly integrated into the display, there’s really no way to replace either of them with an aftermarket receiver. There are plenty of reasons you might need to access the rear of the unit as part of your upgrade plan, though, so we do include the disassembly instructions in the Crutchfield ResearchNotes™ included free with your order. The factory amp, if present, is located under the front passenger's seat.

Before you start any audio upgrade project, be sure to set the parking brake and disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any electrical short.

The base system centers around this unit with twin 7" screens (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the factory speakers

Whether your Outback has the base stereo or one of the premium systems, upgrading to aftermarket gear will be the best way to improve the sound. In most cases, the job’s not too complicated and you can probably do it yourself. Read on to learn more about what you can do and how to do it.

The Outback's Harman Kardon system includes this 3-1/2" center dash speaker (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the center dash speaker (Harman Kardon only)

The Harman Kardon system includes a 3-1/2" speaker in the center of the dash. This is a high-impedance speaker, so replacing it with a standard 4-ohm aftermarket speaker will result in higher volume levels and also overheat the factory amp. Just keep this in mind while you’re shopping.

Removing the speaker is a relatively easy process. First, you’ll use a panel tool to pry the top of the receiver trim panel toward the rear of the vehicle to release seven clips, then disconnect the harness and remove the trim panel. Pry up the center dash grille panel to release eight clips, then remove the grille. With the speaker exposed, you can now remove the two Phillips screws securing it to the dash, disconnect the harness, and remove it.

There isn’t a wiring harness that’ll work here, so you’ll need to splice, solder, or use Posi-Products speaker connectors to connect the new speaker to the car’s speaker wires.

Tools needed: Panel tool, Phillips screwdriver

The Outback's corner dash speakers are reasonably easy to reach and remove (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the corner dash speakers

In all Outbacks, you’ll find 3-1/2" speakers in the dash corners. These are pretty easy to deal with, too, and for the standard and HK systems, we have OEM-style wiring connectors available to reduce your time splicing or soldering wires.

Starting at the rear edge, pry up the corner dash grille to release three clips, then remove the grille. Remove the two Phillips screws securing the speaker to the dash, then disconnect the harness and remove the speaker.

Tools needed: Panel tool, right-angle Phillips screwdriver

You'll need to remove the door panels to access the front and rear door speakers (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the front door speakers

In the front doors, you’ll find 6-1/2" woofers that are wired in parallel with the corner dash tweeters. Thus, a set of component speakers would be a great choice for your Outback.

To remove these speakers, you’ll need to remove the door panels. You’ll start by prying out the screw cover behind the door release handle and removing the exposed Phillips screw. Next, pry open the screw cover inside the door pull cup, then remove another exposed Phillips screw.

Pry out the sides and bottom of the door panel to release nine clips, then disconnect the harnesses and door lock and door release cables, then remove the door panel and store it someplace clean and dry. Remove the four Phillips screws securing the speaker to the door steel, then disconnect the harness and remove the speaker.

You can choose from a nice selection of same-size and 5-1/4" aftermarket speakers. You'll need mounting brackets to install your new speakers, and we’ll include them with your Crutchfield purchase. If you choose 6-3/4" speakers, you'll need to remove the inner tabs on the aftermarket speaker brackets. That’s not hard to do, but work carefully.

Tools needed: Panel tool, small flat blade screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver

The rear door speakers are 6-3/4" full range models (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the rear door speakers

The Outback’s rear doors house 6-3/4" full-range speakers and there are plenty of 6-3/4" or 6-1/2" aftermarket speakers that will fit. We’ll include the necessary mounting brackets, of course.

As for getting to them, you’ll need to remove these door panels, too. That process is remarkably similar to what you do on the front doors, so we’ll save some time and space here. All the step-by-step details will be in your Crutchfield ResearchNotes™, so you’ll be fine.

Tools needed: Panel tool, small flat blade screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver

Getting to the Harman Kardon subwoofer will take a bit of work (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the rear side panel subwoofer (Harman Kardon only)

If your Outback has the Harman Kardon system, there’s an 8" subwoofer tucked into the driver’s side of the cargo area. There aren't many aftermarket subs that will work here, but you can improve your sound if you really want to. Getting to this sub is a bit of a challenge, mostly because while none of the disassembly steps are all that hard, there are a lot of steps.

You can totally do this, but you’ll need to work carefully, be patient, and stay organized. There are a lot of pieces and panels and whatnot involved, so keeping them straight for your eventual reassembly will be important. The entire process is detailed in your Crutchfield ResearchNotes™, of course.

You can install your new sub in the factory enclosure, but you’ll need to do some work to make it fit. In some cases, you’ll need to drill new mounting screw holes to install the new sub. This isn’t all that hard, but work carefully, know what you’re drilling into, and definitely wear eye protection. In other cases, you’ll need to fabricate your own mounting bracket. This can be a bit more challenging, so if you have questions or need some tips, just ask us.

The stock sub only receives bass frequencies from its amplifier, so your new speaker will only reproduce bass. If you plan to keep the stock amp, we recommend a 4-ohm replacement subwoofer.

Tools needed: Panel tool, small flat blade screwdriver, 10mm socket, ratchet and extension, Phillips screwdriver, Torx T20 driver

There's plenty of space for bass in the Outback's cargo area (Crutchfield Research Photo)

More bass in your Outback

The generous cargo area is just one of the reasons Outback owners love their cars. If you also love big bass, there's plenty of room for a subwoofer enclosure. We measured it at 42"W x 16"H x 42"/35"D with the cargo cover in place.

Of course, you might still need to have the majority of that cargo area free for actual cargo. In that case, you might want to look into a more compact powered subwoofer.

A set of custom-fit WeatherTech floor liners will keep your Outback's carpets looking great

Other options for your Outback

With a popular, versatile vehicle like the Outback, there are lots of ways to upgrade your in-car experience. Here are some of the ways Crutchfield can help.

Roof-mounted storage and more

Outback owners tend to have a certain affinity for outdoor adventures. Recreational pursuits such as hunting, fishing, and camping require a lot of gear, so sometimes you need even more space than this wagon can offer. Lightweight cargo carriers, bike racks, and other travel storage gear from Thule will give you the extra space you need.

Floor mats

The Outback combines luxury and utility in a uniquely Subaru kind of way, which means it's easier than you think to mess up the comfy interior while going about your daily business. Floor mats and cargo mats from WeatherTech will help protect your floors from dirt and damage.

Security

Installing a security system in your Outback isn't easy (security systems rarely are), but it's less complicated than it could be. Our Crutchfield Advisors can help figure out what you need to get the job done, but we usually recommend taking your car and new gear to a professional installer.

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