Adding a subwoofer to your 2017 Jeep Cherokee’s factory stereo can make a big difference in your driving experience. The stock system sounds decent, but it usually lacks strong bass. By upgrading with a dedicated subwoofer, you’ll enjoy deeper music, feel the beat, and make every drive more exciting.
The process might seem complex, but with the right steps and knowledge, even beginners can do it safely and efficiently.
Why Add A Subwoofer To Your 2017 Jeep Cherokee?
Factory stereos are designed for average listeners. They prioritize cost and space, not powerful bass. Music with strong low-end—like hip-hop, EDM, or even rock—often sounds flat. A subwoofer solves this problem by handling those deep bass frequencies your stock speakers can’t produce.
Upgrading just the subwoofer, instead of the entire system, is budget-friendly. You keep your familiar controls and touchscreen, but add punchier bass. Many Cherokee owners report the cabin feels more alive, especially on long trips or with favorite tracks.
What You Need Before You Start
Before installing, gather your materials and plan your approach. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Subwoofer (powered or passive)
- Amplifier (if sub is passive)
- Line output converter (LOC) or adapter
- Amplifier wiring kit (power, ground, RCA, remote turn-on wire)
- Fuse holder and fuse (for safety)
- Speaker wire
- Basic tools: Screwdrivers, wire cutters, crimpers, socket set
- Trim removal tools (for interior panels)
- Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
Tip: Choose a subwoofer box that fits your Cherokee’s cargo area. Compact or under-seat subs save space but still add noticeable bass.
Step-by-step Installation Guide
1. Disconnect The Battery
Always disconnect the negative battery terminal first. This prevents short circuits and protects your vehicle’s electronics.
2. Access The Factory Stereo Wires
You won’t replace the stereo, but you need to tap into its speaker wires. Remove the dash trim and pull out the stereo unit enough to access the wiring harness. Use trim removal tools to avoid damaging plastic panels.
3. Install The Line Output Converter (loc)
Most factory stereos lack RCA outputs for amps. An LOC converts your stereo’s speaker-level outputs to RCA-level signals, which your amplifier needs. Find the rear speaker wires (often gray and white for Jeep) and connect the LOC as per its instructions.
Insight: Many beginners forget to connect the LOC’s ground wire. A poor ground causes buzzing or poor bass response.
4. Run Power And Ground Wires
Power wire goes from your battery (with a fuse close to the battery) through the firewall and along the vehicle’s side to the cargo area. Ground wire must attach to bare metal near your amp or subwoofer. Use short ground wires (18” or less) for the best results.
5. Connect The Remote Turn-on Wire
This wire tells your amp when to turn on. You can tap the ACC (accessory) power from the stereo harness or use a fuse tap in the interior fuse box.
6. Install The Subwoofer And Amplifier
Place your subwoofer and amp in the cargo area or under a seat. Connect the RCA cables from the LOC to the amp’s input, and connect speaker wire from the amp output to the subwoofer. Double-check all connections.
7. Reconnect The Battery And Test
Reconnect the battery and start your Jeep. Play music and test the subwoofer. Adjust gain and crossover settings on the amp until you’re happy with the sound.
8. Secure Everything And Replace Panels
Secure all wires with zip ties. Replace trim panels and make sure nothing rattles. A clean install looks professional and prevents problems down the road.
Powered Vs. Passive Subwoofers: Which Is Better?
Choosing between powered (built-in amp) and passive (needs separate amp) subwoofers depends on your needs.
| Feature | Powered Subwoofer | Passive Subwoofer |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Install | Simple, fewer wires | More complex, more wires |
| Sound Power | Good for most users | More powerful, customizable |
| Cost | Usually cheaper | Can be more expensive |
| Space Needed | Compact | Usually larger |
Most beginners prefer powered subwoofers for their easy setup. If you want maximum bass or plan to upgrade more later, a passive sub and amp offer more flexibility.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Skipping the fuse: Always install a fuse near the battery. This is critical for safety.
- Poor ground connection: Many sound issues trace back to bad grounding. Sand the metal and use a secure bolt.
- Running power and RCA wires together: This can cause noise. Keep them on opposite sides of the vehicle.
- Setting amp gain too high: This distorts the sound and can damage the subwoofer.
- Forgetting to disconnect the battery: Even experienced installers sometimes skip this. It only takes a minute and can save you from costly mistakes.
Example: Real-world Bass Improvement
A Cherokee owner added a compact powered sub under the cargo floor. Before, hip-hop tracks felt weak. After installation, bass was much fuller, and even at low volume, the music felt more immersive. This upgrade cost less than $300 and took about three hours with basic tools.
Comparing Subwoofer Brands For Jeep Cherokee
| Brand | Model | Type | Price (USD) | Peak Power (W) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kicker | HS10 | Powered | 299 | 180 |
| Rockford Fosgate | P300-12 | Powered | 279 | 300 |
| JL Audio | CS110LG-TW1 | Passive | 349 | 300 |
Each of these is popular among Cherokee owners for reliability, size, and good bass.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost To Add A Subwoofer To A 2017 Jeep Cherokee?
Costs range from $150 to $500 depending on the subwoofer type and if you do the install yourself or hire a pro.
Will Adding A Subwoofer Void My Warranty?
Usually, adding a subwoofer does not void the factory warranty if installed correctly. Problems caused by poor wiring or damage may not be covered.
Can I Keep My Factory Touchscreen And Controls?
Yes, you keep all factory features. The subwoofer adds bass without changing your stereo functions.
Do I Need A Professional To Install A Subwoofer?
Many people install subwoofers themselves. If you’re not comfortable with wiring or removing panels, a professional can help.
What Is A Line Output Converter And Why Do I Need One?
A line output converter (LOC) lets you connect an amplifier to a factory stereo that lacks RCA outputs. It’s essential for clean sound and safe installation.
Upgrading your 2017 Jeep Cherokee with a subwoofer brings a huge improvement in sound quality and overall enjoyment. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can achieve great results—even as a beginner. For more technical information, visit the official Crutchfield guide. Enjoy your new bass and confident rides ahead!
