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2000-2006 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and 2002 Cadillac Escalade

How to upgrade the stereo system in your Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Yukon XL, or Escalade

Chevy Suburban GMC Yukon XL

In brief: This Crutchfield Research Garage article gives you an overview of your SUV's stock stereo system and your aftermarket upgrade options. We'll tell you all about:

Then, use our vehicle selector to find the gear that will fit your SUV.

Overview

Any car or truck that's in its ninth generation obviously has something going for it. And this is pretty much the only vehicle that can make that claim.

The first Suburban came out in the mid-thirties and while these trucks are a lot more sophisticated than their forebears, the basic idea hasn't changed a whole lot. These trucks are designed to haul lots of people and/or stuff over all sorts of terrain in comfort and style, and they do the job really, really well.

The Tahoe and Yukon came along a few decades later, but they're only slightly smaller than their big brothers and just as capable on- or off-road. The stereo systems are the same, so we've lumped all four SUVs together in one super-sized article.

Note: This article also applies to the 2002 Cadillac Escalade.

Whether you have a stripped-down truck that you use for work and weekend duty, or a maxed out, ultra-luxurious hauler for your family, these trucks are up for the task. But if you're into audio, we don't have to tell you that the stereo could use some upgrading.

chevy suburban gmc yukon xl factory radio

A navigation receiver joined this base receiver later in the model run (Crutchfield Research Photo)

The factory stereo system

The stock stereo gear stayed largely the same over this truck's 7-year run, but a 2003 dash refresh changed the way you go about replacing the receiver. There are some other minor differences between the 2000-2002 trucks and the later versions, and all those will be covered in the Crutchfield MasterSheet that's included free with your stereo or speaker purchase.

There's nothing exceedingly complicated about working on these big SUVs, so if you're a reasonably skilled DIY-er, you'll be just fine. There's a bit of actual work involved in places, but improving the sound and adding cool features like smartphone compatibility, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity will make the effort worthwhile.

suburban yukon xl radio dash kit

This dash kit allows you to install a new single-DIN receiver (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the factory radio

Many of these trucks were equipped with a version of GM's ubiquitous AM/FM CD player, but later trucks could be had with an optional navigation receiver.

A vast number of single-DIN (2" tall) and double-DIN (4" tall) stereos will fit, but you'll need a dash kit and you'll need to take a hacksaw to the rear support bracket in the dash opening to create space for most of them. This is pretty easy and it won't compromise the dash integrity, but it's something to be aware of. If you're not into that idea, look for a digital media receiver. They're not nearly as deep as CD receivers, and most should fit nicely.

Stereo cavity requires modification

You might have to cut out this rear brace when you install a new stereo (Crutchfield Research Photo)

As tempting as it might be to add a single-DIN stereo with a flip-out screen, we don't recommend it, because the screen will bang into the column-mounted shifter.

Whatever kind of receiver you go with, you'll need a dash kit to install it. You'll also need an antenna adapter and a wiring harness adapter that will allow you to connect the new radio without having to cut into the factory wiring. All of those items are available at a healthy discount with your order.

Detailed stereo and speaker removal instructions

MasterSheet image
With step-by-step disassembly instructions and plenty of up-close, detailed photos, our exclusive Crutchfield MasterSheet™ 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.

A quick word about wiring harnesses

On 2003-2006 trucks, the warning chime is built into the factory radio, and the adapter we recommend retains that audible safety warning while also providing a switched 12-volt power source for your new radio. Crutchfield strongly recommends that you don't replace your factory radio without using a recommended adapter. In fact, we can't offer tech support if you don't use it. So you should like, y'know, use it, okay?

When you install a new receiver, you'll lose factory features like XM satellite radio and navigation, if present, but you can replace and actually upgrade them if you order the right receiver.

If your 2000-2002 truck has a rear DVD player, audio will only be available through the factory headphones. That's not a problem on 2003-2006 trucks because there's an adapter available that will let you connect that audio to your new stereo's rear-mounted auxiliary input. The caveat there is that your new stereo has to have a rear-mounted auxiliary input — keep that in mind while you're shopping.

Tools needed (2000-2002): Panel tool, opposable thumbs

Tools needed: (2003-2006): Panel tool, 7mm socket, ratchet and extension, hacksaw

Read our Car Stereo Buying Guide for shopping tips and advice.

Shop for car stereos that fit your Cadillac Escalade

Steering wheel audio controls

In most cases, it's reasonably easy to retain your truck's steering wheel audio controls when you install a new stereo. When you enter your vehicle information, our database will choose the adapter you need to make your factory steering wheel controls work with a compatible aftermarket receiver.

chevy suburban gmc yukon xl front door

The front and rear door speakers are reasonably easy to reach and replace (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the factory speakers

There are some model year variations to pay attention to, but overall, speaker replacement is pretty uncomplicated in these trucks.

chevy suburban gmc yukon xl front door speaker

The stock speakers can be replaced by a wide variety of aftermarket models (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Front door speakers

The door speakers in these big trucks are 6-1/2" models. You can replace them with same-size speakers slightly smaller 5-1/4" speakers. You'll need a mounting bracket in either case, and we'll include them and wiring adapters at a significant discount. If you're willing to drill some new screw holes, slightly larger 6-3/4" models will work, too.

The speakers are reasonably easy to reach and replace. You'll need to remove the sail panel and door panel, but it's not a terribly involved process at all. Your MasterSheet will walk you through every step. The key is to work carefully and take it easy when you're prying away the plastic bits. They're not as young and flexible as they used to be.

Most of these trucks included tweeters in the front doors. As long as you have the door panel off, you might as well replace the woofer and the tweeter with a top-quality set of component speakers. You’ll have to fashion a mounting plate for the new tweeter, a task for which our universal backstraps are very helpful.

If you install the larger speakers, be safe when you're drilling the new mounting holes. Take note of what's around the drilling area and work carefully to avoid damaging your truck.

Tools needed: Panel tool, small flat blade screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, Torx T-20 driver, 7mm socket, ratchet and extension, drill, 1/8” bit, shop rag (used on manual window cranks)

suburban yukon xl rear door

You have lots of options when it comes to replacing the rear door speakers (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Rear door speakers

Replacing the rear door speakers is a very similar process to what you did up front. The same size ranges work here, and the same cautions and suggestions apply. If you need mounting brackets for your speakers, they'll be included with your order.

Whenever you're replacing door speakers, it's important to test them out before going to the trouble of putting the doors back together. It's also smart to make sure the locks and windows are operating properly before you button everything up again.

Tools needed: Panel tool, small flat blade screwdriver, Torx T-15 driver, 9/32" socket, ratchet and extension

suburban yukon xl rear tweeter

The rear tweeters can be found behind the pillar panels (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Rear tweeters

Most trim levels have tweeters mounted in the rear pillars. The tweeters are 2-3/4" in size, with a distance of 3-1/4" between the mounting screw holes. There's plenty of room to install new tweeters, if you want, but you'll need to use universal backstraps, hot glue, or silicone to secure them.

To replace the tweeters, start by prying off the upper trim that connects the two pillars, above the cargo door. Next, remove the rear pillar trim panels. Start at the edge closest to the center of the vehicle to release three metal clips, then move to the edge near the side window and pry to release two more clips.

Disconnect the speaker harness to free the panel from the truck. Cut the zip tie and pry out on three plastic clips to free the factory speaker.

suburban yukon xl rear subwoofer

The factory sub lives behind this good-sized rear trim panel in 2000-2002 trucks (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Side-panel subwoofer (2000-2002 models)

If your 2000-2002 Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, or Yukon XL has the premium audio system, you'll find an 8", 2-ohm subwoofer back in the cargo area. If you want to replace it, there are several aftermarket subs that will fit in the space.

To replace that sub, you'll start by following the procedure above to remove the rear pillar trim on the driver's side. Next, pry up the door opening scuff plate to release 10 metal clips, then remove the scuff plate.

Pry out the retaining clip from the rear side trim panel located at the bottom of panel near the door opening, then cover the cargo net holder with a shop rag or cloth and use a pair of pliers to unscrew and remove the holder. Next, remove a screw from the cupholder.

To remove the sub, start at the rear and top rear edges of the rear side panel and pry the panel out enough to access the screws securing the sub. Remove the four Torx T-20 screws securing the sub, then pull it out and disconnect it.

Tools needed: Panel tool, wire cutters, Torx T-20 driver, shop rag

Center console subwoofer (2003-2006 models)

Bose-equipped 2003-up trucks have the same tweeters, but the subwoofer is located up front in the center console. This sub is a forward-firing, dual-voice coil model that's roughly the same size as a 6-3/4" sub, but slightly oblong in shape.

If it's there, you can replace it with something newer and nicer, but the job's not easy. To be quite frank, it's a massive pain. Once you get in there, you'll need to fabricate a mounting bracket to install a new one. The factory system sends only bass frequencies to the sub, so a replacement aftermarket speaker will also only play bass.

None of the (many) steps involved in getting to the sub are especially difficult, but there are a lot of them and it's not a job you can rush through. A DIY-er can do this, but allocate plenty of time and remember to be very, very patient while you work.

Tools needed: Phillips screwdriver, right-angle Phillips screwdriver, 10mm driver

Read our Car Speakers Buying Guide for more information.

Shop for speakers that fit your Cadillac Escalade

chevy suburban gmc yukon xl cargo area

There's plenty of space for bass in this enormous cargo area. (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Bass in your Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, or Yukon XL

Replacing the factory subwoofer is one way to improve the bass in your truck, but it's not the only way.

There's obviously tons of space in this vehicle, so if you want to go big on bass, the easiest way to do it is by adding a traditional subwoofer box. From side to side, there's a 49" W x 16" H x 27"/28" D space available, but feel free to install something even bigger if cargo hauling isn't much of a concern. If it is, look into a smaller enclosure or a powered subwoofer that'll take up less space.

Learn more about building a bass system in our Car Subwoofer Buying Guide.

Q-Forms Kick Panel Enclosures

Q-Forms Kick Panel Enclosures can really improve your SUV's soundstaging

Other options for your Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, or Yukon XL

Here are some other upgrade ideas for your SUV.

Add an amplifier for better sound

No matter what else you do to your audio system, to further improve the sound quality, consider installing a 4-channel amplifier for your speakers. That will let you get the best sound from your music and really fill up this truck's spacious cabin. And if you install subwoofers, you'll also need to install an amplifier to power them as well. Learn more about adding amps to your system in our Car Amplifier Buying Guide.

Kick Panel Pods for more speakers

To pump up the sound even more, install a set of Q-Forms Kick Panel Pods. These custom speaker enclosures fit right into the space where your kick panels are now and, once you pick and install a set of 6-1/2" speakers, will direct great sound up towards your ears. They're available in a variety of colors to match your truck's interior.

Sound damping to block road noise

There's no way to totally eliminate wind and road noise from a big old brick like this, but installing some Dynamat in the doors — and, potentially, throughout the cabin, can really seal in sound. A set of inexpensive foam speaker baffles behind your new speakers will also help, plus they help protect the speakers from dust and damage.

Navigation

If your truck didn't come with factory navigation, you can add an aftermarket double-DIN nav receiver with help from a dash kit. Depending on how you use your truck, a portable navigation unit could also be a good solution, because you can move it between vehicles as needed and tuck it into a storage compartment when you're not using it.

Security

Installing a security system in this truck is reasonably simple as these things go, but these things really aren't simple. If you're not experienced with car security and remote start installations, consult a Crutchfield advisor before ordering and consider handing the job off to a professional.

Let's get started!

Ready to shop? Use our vehicle selector to find the gear that will fit your car or truck. If you have questions, give us a shout via phone, chat, or email

  • Roberto

    Posted on 5/15/2023

    I have a stock 2002 suburban Ls. What's the max RMS power I can run from a stock battery and alternator. Wanting to do a 5 ch set up with 1500 RMS power

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 5/15/2023

    Roberto, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
  • Nan from Wichita

    Posted on 1/2/2023

    2004 Yukon Denali. I'm replacing the head but my Bose speakers work great even though they are old. Should I replace the Bose at the same time?

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 1/3/2023

    Nan, You certainly don't have to do everything all at once. Replace the receiver first and see how that sounds. You can replace the speakers later and enjoy another step up in audio performance. Give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
  • Mark R Hoover from NORMAN

    Posted on 12/18/2022

    I have just got a 2005 chevy suburban z71. I would like to install a new head unit with I believe it's android carplay . But I have a DVD player and would like to retain it (the grandkids like it) what am I looking at and what all harnesses do I need

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 12/19/2022

    Mark, I've sent your question to our sales team, and they'll be contacting you via email soon. For immediate help, you can contact them via phone or chat.
  • David A Feuerborn from Williamsburg

    Posted on 1/19/2022

    Would I still be able to use the remote cassette player with a new aftermarket system in a 2001 Chevrolet Suburban?

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 1/20/2022

    David, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
  • Zac Beedle from Shawnee

    Posted on 3/23/2021

    Looking to replace the factory nav/radio in my '04 Denali, but I would like to know if an adapter exists to retain "Rear Seat Entertainment" (RSE) controls as well as the factory 6 disc CD changer. What options exist for this? Thanks,

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 3/24/2021

    Zac, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
  • Cory Sassin from San Antonio

    Posted on 3/23/2021

    My D pillar speaker's sure do look like a full range speaker not tweeters. I have 2006 Denali Bose system. That being said, maybe they were because the Polk 4 x 7 I put in there do sound a little off. Can you give me a location of the filter (capacitors) they're on the speakers or close by on wiring. Is the Bose amp controlling this? In the process of swapping everything btw, just slow going. After seeing the harness I purchased from you guys I think I'll be letting a professional do the radio! Yikes.

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 3/23/2021

    Cory, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. And, since you bought your gear from Crutchfield, you can call Tech Support for free help with these issues. We'll look forward to speaking with you soon!
  • Cmzac from Oxford ct

    Posted on 11/19/2020

    I have a 2004 Yukon slt with the Bose system but not the premium... if I replace the radio, do I really need to replace all the speakers too or will they work good with a new head unit?

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 11/20/2020

    Cmzac, If they work now, they'll still work, and they might even sound a little better. That said, they're not new anymore, so new speakers should be your next upgrade. Give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
  • john from louisville

    Posted on 10/21/2020

    I have a 2002 yukon without Bose. All the door speakers in the doors were replaced with kenwood 6-1/2. I unplugged the original tweeters in the doors. The issue I have is there is to much high end and not enough mid and bass. The sub in the rear was replaced with a 4 ohm 8 inch reaper before I got it. Not sure of the power output of the stock system to the sub or the door speakers. Should I unhook the tweeters in the d pillars? Replace the sub with something closer to the original? Don't need big power just a balanced sound.

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 10/21/2020

    John, If you bought your gear from Crutchfield, you can call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system. If you're looking to make some changes to your system (and it sounds like you might be), give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
  • Shelby from Marshall

    Posted on 6/10/2020

    I have a 2003 Tahoe (that I love), about 2 years ago the 6CD changer quit ejecting CDs, so I have been listening to the same 6 all this time! I would like to upgrade to a MP3 compatible unit with radio still. Can you recommend a specific unit? It's very confusing for someone who is not tech savvy like me. My tahoe does have the steering wheel controls for bluetooth, onstar, etc...(sorry, I'm just old school). Any help is appreciated! Thanks!

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 6/10/2020

    Shelby, We can help you with that! I've sent your question to our sales team, and they'll be contacting you via email soon. For immediate help, you can contact them via phone or chat.
  • Mark from Hinton

    Posted on 6/2/2020

    Great sales article on the up grading the Bose System in my 2001 Suburban. Gives a lot Olof useful info . It was a pleasurable read!

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 6/3/2020

    Thanks, Mark!

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