Hey car audio enthusiasts! Are you rolling in a 2017 Subaru Crosstrek and finding the stock sound system a bit…meh? You're not alone! Many Crosstrek owners feel the factory audio setup could use a serious boost. This guide is your ultimate resource for everything related to the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek sound system, covering potential upgrades, common issues, and how to get the most out of your music on the road. We'll dive deep into speakers, head units, amplifiers, and even touch on some DIY installation tips. Get ready to transform your driving experience with crystal-clear audio! Let's get started, shall we?

Understanding Your 2017 Crosstrek's Factory Sound System

Before you start ripping and replacing, it's crucial to understand what you're working with. The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek sound system typically comes in two flavors: the base audio system and the upgraded system, often tied to a higher trim level or package. The base system usually comprises a standard head unit (the radio), a set of speakers in the front and rear doors, and maybe some tweeters in the dash. The upgraded system might include a slightly more powerful head unit, additional tweeters, and potentially a subwoofer. Knowing which system you have will help you determine the best path for upgrades. In the base system, you will notice the lack of clarity and the absence of a rich and deep bass response. This is because the factory speakers are often made with cheaper materials that aren’t designed for optimal sound quality. They might distort at higher volumes and struggle to reproduce the full range of frequencies. The head unit itself is often a weak link. While it provides basic functionality, it typically lacks the processing power and features of aftermarket units, like advanced equalization settings and the ability to play high-resolution audio. The stock speakers are generally designed to be cost-effective rather than high-performance. They might use paper cones and basic surrounds, limiting their ability to handle a wide range of frequencies and dynamic range. Even if you don’t plan to replace the head unit, consider upgrading the speakers first. This can often provide a noticeable improvement in sound quality, especially if you choose speakers with better materials and construction. Think about it – upgrading your speakers is often a more accessible and cost-effective way to get better sound than replacing the entire system. Start by comparing your Crosstrek's audio setup with reviews and forums to see what others have done and what worked best.

Dissecting the Factory Components

• Head Unit: The heart of your audio system, controlling the radio, CD player, and sometimes external devices. The stock head unit may lack advanced features or power. The factory head unit might integrate with the car's infotainment system, including the display screen, climate controls, and vehicle settings. This integration can make aftermarket replacements more complex, but not impossible. Understanding these connections is essential for a seamless upgrade. Some owners find the factory head unit's interface to be clunky or outdated. The response time might be slow, and the menu layout can be confusing. Upgrading to a modern head unit can offer a much-improved user experience. Many newer head units offer features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration. These allow you to use your phone's navigation, music streaming, and other apps directly on the car's display. The factory head unit may not support high-resolution audio formats like FLAC or DSD. If you're a music aficionado who enjoys lossless audio, upgrading the head unit is a must. The head unit also controls the power output to your speakers. The factory unit typically has a modest power rating, which can limit the volume and clarity you can achieve. If you plan to add more powerful speakers or an amplifier, you will likely need to upgrade the head unit.
• Speakers: Located in the doors and dash, responsible for reproducing the sound. The factory speakers are often the weakest link in the system. They may use cheap materials and lack the ability to produce a wide range of frequencies. Upgrading to aftermarket speakers can significantly improve clarity and bass response. The size and mounting configuration of the speakers vary by location (front doors, rear doors, dash). Before you buy, you’ll need to research the speaker sizes in your Crosstrek. This information is readily available online or in your owner's manual. The location of the speakers influences the soundstage in your car. A well-designed system will place the speakers to create a balanced and immersive audio experience. Consider upgrading the tweeters (small speakers that handle high frequencies) as part of your upgrade. Better tweeters can enhance the clarity and detail of your music. Upgrading speakers in your doors can make a big difference, especially if you choose high-quality components designed for clear audio and robust bass response.
• Wiring: The cables that connect all the components. Ensure your wiring is in good condition and consider upgrading it for better power handling. Proper wiring is essential for the performance of your audio system. Upgrading the wiring, especially the power cables, can improve the efficiency and clarity of your sound. Make sure the wiring is correctly connected and protected from damage.

Upgrading Your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek Sound System: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to get your hands dirty and enhance the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek sound system? Here's a breakdown of the key components you can upgrade and some tips to get you started. Remember to always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on your car's electrical system for safety. Also, having the right tools makes the process much smoother. You'll need things like screwdrivers, panel removal tools, wire strippers, crimpers, and a multimeter. Take your time, read the instructions carefully, and don't be afraid to ask for help!

Step 1: Choosing a New Head Unit

The head unit is the brain of your audio system, so it is a good place to start. Consider what features are important to you: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, a touchscreen display, and built-in navigation are all popular choices. Research head units that fit your budget and offer the features you want. Make sure the new unit is compatible with your Crosstrek's dash size (usually single-DIN or double-DIN). Double-DIN units are larger and offer more features, like larger screens. Check online reviews and forums to see what other Crosstrek owners have installed and liked. Consider the power output of the new head unit. A higher wattage output will drive your speakers more effectively, leading to louder and clearer sound. Ensure that the new head unit has the necessary connectors to work with your car's wiring harness. Many aftermarket head units come with adapters to make installation easier. Many modern head units have a sleek, modern look that can significantly improve the car's interior. A large touchscreen display is very appealing and can offer a user-friendly interface.

Step 2: Selecting Speakers

Your speakers are what you hear, so selecting the right ones is crucial. Research different speaker brands and models to find ones that meet your needs. Consider the size of the speakers in your Crosstrek's front and rear doors, and dash. Replace the factory speakers with aftermarket options. Look for speakers made with high-quality materials, such as polypropylene or Kevlar cones, and rubber surrounds. Higher-quality materials generally lead to better sound. Pay attention to the speaker's frequency response range. A wider range will give you a more complete sound, from deep bass to clear highs. Check the speaker's power handling capabilities. Make sure they can handle the power output of your head unit or amplifier. Component speakers (separate woofers and tweeters) generally offer better sound quality than coaxial speakers (where the tweeter is mounted in the center of the woofer). Component speaker systems often deliver more accurate and balanced sound because the tweeter and woofer are positioned independently.

Step 3: Installing an Amplifier

If you want a significant power boost and improved sound quality, an amplifier is a must. If you’re a serious audiophile, an amp is a must-have for the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek sound system upgrade. The amplifier takes the signal from your head unit and boosts it, sending more power to your speakers. This results in louder, clearer, and more dynamic sound. You will need to determine the right amplifier for your system. Consider how many channels you need, depending on your speakers. A 4-channel amp is typical for powering front and rear speakers. A 5-channel amp is used if you are adding a subwoofer. Consider the power rating of the amplifier. Match it to the power handling of your speakers. If your speakers handle 100 watts RMS, you'll need an amplifier that can deliver a similar amount of power. Make sure you have the proper wiring for the amplifier, including power cables, ground cables, and speaker wires. Consider the amplifier's location. Common locations include under the seats or in the trunk.

Step 4: Subwoofer Integration

Want to feel the bass? A subwoofer adds the low-frequency punch that factory systems often lack. The subwoofer will add depth and richness to your music. There are a few options for subwoofers: a standalone subwoofer enclosure, a powered subwoofer (which has a built-in amplifier), or a subwoofer that fits in the spare tire well. The enclosure subwoofers are generally considered the best for sound quality. Make sure you have enough space for the enclosure in your Crosstrek’s cargo area. Powered subwoofers offer a convenient, all-in-one solution. They are easier to install since the amplifier is built in. Under-seat subwoofers are also available. These are compact and fit under the seat, saving space. If you're using a separate amplifier, you will need to connect the subwoofer to the amplifier's sub output. Consider the subwoofer's size and power rating. Match it to your listening preferences and the size of your vehicle.

Troubleshooting Common Sound System Issues in Your Crosstrek

Even with a great sound system, you might run into some hiccups. Here's how to troubleshoot some common 2017 Subaru Crosstrek sound system problems. If you're experiencing problems with your sound system, here are some troubleshooting tips.

Crackling or Distortion

Crackling or distortion can be caused by various factors, from speaker issues to wiring problems. Check your speaker connections and wiring. A loose wire can cause crackling. Make sure the speakers are not blown. Overdriving the speakers (playing them too loud) can cause them to fail. Make sure the head unit or amplifier isn’t faulty. Ensure the head unit volume is not set too high. Excessive volume can cause distortion, especially with factory components.

No Sound

If you get no sound at all, there's a big problem somewhere. Make sure the head unit is powered on. Check the fuse for the head unit, amplifier, and speakers. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a fuse of the same rating. Check the wiring connections between the head unit, amplifier, and speakers. Make sure the amplifier is turned on. Ensure the amplifier is receiving a signal from the head unit.

Weak Bass

If the bass is weak, there are several possible causes. Check that your subwoofer is connected correctly and that the settings are optimized. Check the subwoofer’s settings on your head unit or amplifier. Ensure the bass settings are turned up. Ensure the subwoofer is getting enough power.

Expert Tips and Considerations

Here are some final tips to make sure your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek sound system upgrade goes smoothly. Before you start, research your Crosstrek's audio system and available aftermarket components. Knowing what fits and what works will save you time and headaches. Take your time. Don't rush the installation. Work methodically to avoid mistakes. Use high-quality components and wiring. Investing in better components will pay off with improved sound quality and reliability. If you’re not comfortable with the installation, consider hiring a professional. A professional installer can ensure that everything is set up correctly and safely. Consider sound deadening. Adding sound deadening material to your doors and floor can reduce road noise and improve the sound quality.

Conclusion: Your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek Sound System Upgrade Journey

Upgrading your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek sound system is a rewarding project that can significantly enhance your driving experience. By understanding your current system, choosing the right components, and following these steps, you can create a sound system that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. With the right upgrades, your Crosstrek will sound better than ever. So go out there, do your research, and enjoy the process of transforming your car audio into something truly amazing!