2009-2014 Ford F-150 SuperCrew

Overview of the Ford F-150 SuperCrew

Even the most casual sports fan knows the tired old clichés that fill every media outlet every time the previous year's champs prepare to open a new season: No matter the sport, we're all helpfully reminded that last year was last year, staying number one is tough, and that the other teams are really going to go after them because being the champ is like having a target on your back.

Is it boring, bland sports-speak? Of course it is. Alas, it's also true, which makes the Ford F-Series pickup's 3-decade-long (and counting) run at the top of the truck sales charts all the more amazing. Talk about your 3-peats.

Needless to say, with huge profits and prestige at stake, Ford had a lot riding on the 12^th generation F-Series that debuted in 2009. The new line, led by the wildly popular F-150, didn't disappoint, with a tough new look, three useful body styles, an amazing array of trim levels and options, and the rugged versatility that people – lots and lots of people – want from a pickup. Not surprisingly, the F-Series isn’t just the most popular truck in the country; it's one of the most popular vehicles of any kind.

The SuperCrew's integrated radio (Crutchfield Research Photo)

The factory stereo system

The F-150 SuperCrew was available in a variety of different trim packages with a variety of different stereos. The base stereo was a simple AM/FM radio, and the step-ups went from a CD player with an aux jack all the way to a Sony audio system. Satellite radio was an option as well, not to mention Ford's SYNC® system. No matter what's in the dash and doors, though, those factory stereos aren't as powerful and rugged as the truck that surrounds them. Thankfully, we know how to fix that.

Removing the factory radio

Thanks to a mid-cycle dashboard revamp, there's a difference in how you approach radio replacement in 2009-2012 and 2013-2014 F-150s. What you have to do depends on which truck you have, and Crutchfield MasterSheets are available for both the older and newer versions. Speaker replacement remains the same for all 12th-gen F-150s.

Detailed stereo and speaker removal instructions

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.

2009-2012 models

In basic terms, the F-150 has one of three radios: integrated, non-integrated, or a navigation receiver. Details between receivers vary, of course, but for our purposes, the type means a lot more than the specs.

The integrated and non-integrated radios require a dash kit, which is included free with most Crutchfield stereo purchases. These kits, which work with single-DIN (2" tall) or double-DIN (4" tall) aftermarket stereos, do a very nice job of integrating your new receiver into your existing dashboard.

If your truck is equipped with the top-of-the-line navigation radio, though, it's a wee bit more complicated. There is a dash kit that will allow you to install an iDatalink-ready double-DIN receiver in your truck, but you'll also need an iDatalink ADS-MRR or ADS-MRR2 module to make everything work. You'll see all this when you enter your vehicle info, and if you have questions, we're here to help.

Depending on which of the other radios you're replacing, you'll lose functions like the factory aux input connection, satellite radio, or SYNC. Thankfully, the right combination of adapters and gear will let you get those features back, better than ever. Our Crutchfield Advisors can help you choose the right package for your needs, and give you the advice you need to do the job right.

To get started on replacing your radio, open the lower dash storage tray. Push out the SYNC panel (Or, if you don't have SYNC, a blank plate.) from behind to release the retaining clips. Disconnect the harnesses and remove, then remove the exposed 7mm screw. Pull up the rubber mat in front of the dash display and remove two exposed 7mm screws. Then, carefully pry out the inside edges of both radio side panels to release the retaining clips — but don't remove them.

Pry out the receiver faceplate (integrated radios) or trim panel (non-integrated) to release the retaining clips, then disconnect the wiring harnesses and remove the faceplate or panel. What happens next depends on which factory receiver you have in your truck.

If you have an integrated radio, remove the screws securing the radio/chassis to the dash, then disconnect wiring harnesses and antenna and remove the entire assembly. If you have the non-integrated radio, just remove the screws, then disconnect and remove the radio.

Complete, illustrated instructions can be found in the Crutchfield MasterSheet that's included free with your order. You'll also get a nice discount on the wiring adapter needed to connect the new receiver to your vehicle's wiring.

The dash design changed in 2013, and so did the radio removal process (Crutchfield Research Photo)

2013-2014 models

To remove the base radio, follow the instructions for the 2009-2012 "integrated" radio. If you have the 4.2" LCD screen, refer to your MasterSheet for detailed, illustrated instructions. Removing the LCD radio isn’t hard, but there are quite a few steps, so you'll want to stay calm and stay organized throughout.

In most cases, you'll lose factory features like USB and AUX inputs, SiriusXM satellite radio, and navigation when you replace the stock radio, but you can regain most or all of them by choosing the right aftermarket receiver. You can also retain SYNC functionality with the right wiring harness adapter. Just enter your vehicle information and let our database find exactly what you're looking for.

Tools needed: Panel tool, Phillips screwdriver, 5.5mm/7mm/10mm sockets, ratchet, and extension

Tools needed: Panel tool, socket wrench, extension, and 7mm socket

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

Shop for car stereos that fit your Ford F 150 FX2

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.

The F-150's big front door has room for some big speakers (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the factory speakers

The F-150 SuperCrew is a relatively uncomplicated truck, and replacing the front door speakers is a relatively uncomplicated process. How much so depends on your DIY skills, of course, but if you're reasonably handy with tools, it really isn't that bad.

Another factor is whether your truck has power windows or good old-fashioned crank windows. Either way, you'll need to remove the door panels. The important thing is to work slowly and carefully to avoid breaking or damaging the plastic bits.

The factory 6"x8" speakers can be replaced by same-size or 5-1/4" models. If you go with the smaller speakers, you'll need an adapter bracket, which you can get at a nice discount when you purchase your speakers from Crutchfield.

Tools needed (power windows): Panel tool, socket wrench, extension, 5.5mm, 7mm, 8mm & 1/4" sockets

Tools needed (manual windows): Panel tool, socket wrench, extension, 5.5mm, 8mm, & 1/4" sockets, Torx T-20 driver

Front pillar tweeters

Trucks equipped with the factory Sony audio system include a few more speakers than the average F-150, including a pair of 4-ohm tweeters located in the front pillars. Replacing them isn't difficult, but there are some things you'll want to know before you start.

For one thing, there's a bit of a difference in how you remove the driver's side and passenger's side tweeters. It's nothing major – on the driver's side, you pull down the door gasket and pry out the plastic trim; while on the other side, you have to remove the pillar pull handles before you can get to the door gasket – but it's good to know. Complete instructions can be found in your Crutchfield MasterSheet.

To mount the new tweeters, you'll either need to make your own mounting bracket, or use one of our universal backstraps. A wiring harness is not available for this location, so you'll want to make the connections using a set of Posi-Products connectors. This is a lot easier than splicing, plus you'll get a much stronger connection – a good thing, considering how often you open and close the front doors.

Tools needed: Panel tool, Phillips screwdriver, socket wrench, and 7mm extension (passenger's side only)

The dash speaker is easy to get to and easy to remove (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Center-channel dash speaker

Sony-equipped trucks also have a 3-1/2" speaker in the center of the dash. It's easy to get to and easy to replace, but you'll want to use another set of Posi-Products connectors to create a strong, long-lasting hookup.

You'll also need to cut off two plastic location pins from the factory speaker bracket before you mount your new speaker. This modification does not affect the bracket's structural integrity.

Tools needed: Panel tool, socket wrench, 5.5mm and 7mm extensions, small flat blade screwdriver

The rear door speakers are identical to the ones in the front door (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Rear door speakers

The SuperCrew's spacious rear seating area turns this truck into a comfortable chariot for your coworkers or family. And even when it's empty, those big doors have plenty of room for better speakers.

As with the front doors, the factory 6"x8" speakers can be replaced by same-size or 5-1/4" models. If you go with the smaller speakers, you'll need an adapter bracket here, too.

Removing and replacing the speakers is actually not that hard, but there are a lot of steps and you'll be getting good use out of your socket wrench set.

Because you'll be dealing with three different screw sizes, it's a good idea to make sure you have some cups or bowls handy to keep them (and the extension bits) organized. It's also important to work slowly and carefully when you're removing the various plastic bits and panels.

The complete, illustrated instructions in your Crutchfield MasterSheet will guide you through every step of the process, and our Tech Support team is only a phone call away – even on weekends.

Tools needed: Panel tool, socket wrench, extension, 5.5mm, 6mm, 8mm, and 1/4" sockets

Read our Car Speakers Buying Guide for more information.

Shop for speakers that fit your Ford F 150 FX2

Bass in your F-150 SuperCab

The factory 8" subwoofer, also a part of the Sony system, is located under the right rear seat. This down-firing, dual voice coil sub is quite easy to remove and replace, and a wiring harness is not needed. The factory amplifier won't have enough power for an aftermarket subwoofer, so if you replace this sub, you should also install a new amp.

To get started, lift up the seat; then remove the 8mm screw that secures the rear enclosure bracket to the floor. Pry off both front enclosure bracket covers and remove one 8mm screw under each one. Remove one 8mm screw on the back of the enclosure; then remove eight Phillips screws that secure the subwoofer to the enclosure.

Once that's done, disconnect the harnesses and remove the sub. You'll need to use self-tapping screws when you install your new aftermarket subwoofer. You'll need a Phillips screwdriver, a socket wrench, an extension and an 8mm socket for this job.

If the new sub's mounting holes don’t align, though, you'll need to drill new ones using a 1/8" bit. This isn't hard, but know what you're drilling into, work carefully, and wear eye protection.

If you're thinking about going big and installing a custom sub box underneath the rear seats, you have a 52" W x 6" H x 11" D space to work with in the SuperCrew. Of course, the easier option is to install a custom-designed sub package from Kicker or MTX Audio. These sub enclosures are made to fit your F-150 perfectly, and some can be ordered in colors that match your truck's interior. To see what's available to fit your F-150, go to our Outfit My Car page and enter your vehicle information.

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

Shop for vehicle-specific subwoofers for your Ford F 150 FX2

Other options for your F-150 SuperCab

As you might expect with a truck as popular as the F-150, there are lots of ways to upgrade your entertainment and security.

WeatherTech DigitalFit® FloorLiners™

Floor mats

No matter how much you pamper your truck, you're eventually going to get involved in some sort of truck-like activity that gets you and/or it dirty. When that happens, it's a good idea to have a set of WeatherTech Floor Mats in your truck. These incredibly durable mats trap moisture, contain dirt, and keep your factory carpets looking good.

Sound damping

Your F-150 is a big vehicle with big doors and the aerodynamic profile of, well, forget the cute analogies, a truck. To prevent wind noise and road roar from undoing the great work your new stereo is doing for you, make sure you install Dynamat when you're replacing your speakers. This soundproofing material is a great way to dampen the sounds you don't like and get more enjoyment out of the ones you do. For more information on installing Dynamat in a pickup, check out our informative series of articles on our 2004 F-150 project truck.

Remote start and security systems

Adding remote start capability to your vehicle lets you warm it up in the winter or cool it down in the summer. The iDatastart system is incredibly convenient and makes it easier than ever to install a remote start system, so we highly recommend it. The module requires a vehicle-specific T-harness (sold separately) to connect with your vehicle's computer, security, and ignition systems, so we ask that you call to order so that we can make sure you get the right harness for your ride.

You can also talk to your Crutchfield Advisor about a security system. They’re not as easy to install (we usually suggest letting a professional do the job), but we can help you choose a system that’ll work in your vehicle.

Let's get started!

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