Upgrading your 2013 Ford Fusion’s speakers can dramatically improve its sound quality—from crisper vocals to richer bass. This detailed guide explores the top speaker options, what fits best, real user experiences, and step-by-step advice to help you create an audio system you’ll love.
Why Speaker Upgrades Matter
The stock speakers in many 2013 Fusions, even premium systems, tend to sound thin and lack detail. Fresh, high-quality speakers can deliver:
- Clearer vocals and instruments
- Tighter, deeper bass
- Rich soundstage—better separation between left/right channels
- Maximized potential of your head unit or aftermarket stereo
Plus, high-quality speakers typically last longer and resist road noise better.
Stock Speaker Setup in 2013 Fusion
Understanding factory layout helps ensure upgrades fit well:
- Front Doors: 6½” coaxial speakers plus separate tweeters in higher trims
- Rear Doors: 6½” coaxial speakers
- Rear Deck: Small factory sub or full-range speaker depending on trim
Knowing these sizes lets you choose direct-fit speakers that snap in without splicing wires.
Top Speaker Options
1. Kicker DS Series 6½” (43DSC6504)
- Why choose them: Designed to perfectly fit 2013–2020 Fusion front/rear doors, delivering clear mids and improved bass.
- User feedback:
“They sound amazing. They fit perfectly…10× better quality material than stock paper speakers.”
- Installation: Straight plug-and-play with harness adapters—about a 30-minute install per door.
- Best for: Those seeking a big upgrade with minimal hassle.
2. Kicker CS Series 6½” (46CSC654)
- Why choose them: A step up from the DS Series. Offers crisper highs, deeper bass, and a smoother overall sound.
- Installation: Still easy plug-and-play, with simple harness use.
- Best for: Drivers who want a more refined audio experience without extensive customization.
3. Harmony R65 Factory Replacement Kit
- Why choose it: An OEM-style upgrade that drops into place and delivers balanced sound with no modifications.
- Installation: Fully plug-and-play—same wire connectors, mounting points, and performance.
- Best for: Owners who want a clean upgrade without visual or structural changes.
4. Kenwood KFC‑1666S + Tweeters + Subwoofer
- Package: Kenwood 6½” speakers, supplemental tweeters, and a small trunk sub for full-range sound.
- User review:
“I replaced factory with 4 KFC‑1666S, 4 tweeters and 2 Rockville 12s in the trunk. The sound is amazing…”
- Installation: Requires custom wiring and mounting. DIY level or professional recommended.
- Best for: Enthusiasts ready for deeper bass and vocals—expect more work but premium results.
5. component speaker systems (JL, Rockford Fosgate, Pioneer)
- Why choose them: Top-tier sound quality, custom fit with separate woofers, tweeters, and crossovers.
- Installation: Mid to advanced; works best with door pods or custom tweeter mounts.
- Best for: Audiophiles building a high-end system in their Fusion.
Quick Comparison Table
| Speaker Kit | Installation | Sound Quality | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kicker DS Series | Easy plug‑and‑play | Clear, full | All‑round improvement |
| Kicker CS Series | Easy plug‑and‑play | Crisper, richer | Enhanced clarity |
| Harmony R65 Kit | Seamless OEM fit | Balanced sound | OEM look & simple upgrade |
| Kenwood + Tweeters + Sub | Complex DIY | Deepest bass & widest range | Premium custom setup |
| Component Systems | Advanced install | High-end clarity | Audiophile quality |
Real User Feedback
“Every aftermarket speaker sounds better than OEM outside of maybe ‘premium audio.’”
“HUGE improvement in sound. The soundstage is up front and center.”
“Sony models require carefully removing rear deck cover for sub upgrades.”
Installation Tips for Best Results
- Use harness adapters: They let you plug speakers in without cutting wires.
- Add sound‑deadening: Butyl pads under door panels reduce road noise and improve bass response.
- Seal gaps behind speakers: Use foam tape for better bass and tighter sound.
- Install tweeters at ear level: Use pods or upper door bezels for improved clarity.
- Use crossovers: Protect tweeters by filtering out bass frequencies.
- Test before final assembly: Always test speakers before snapping panels back on.
- Retain factory head unit: OEM stereo is enough—upgrading speakers alone gives big gains.
Common Questions
Will these upgrade give me better bass?
Yes—the Kenwood setup with a trunk sub provides the deepest and most powerful bass. The Kicker DS and CS series also improve low-end response—but component and sub setups outperform coaxial upgrades.
Will I lose warranty by changing speakers?
No. As long as you don’t modify factory wiring, speaker replacement won’t void warranties. Plug-and-play kits are safe and simple.
Can I keep the factory stereo?
Absolutely. You don’t need a new head unit. Quality speakers alone improve clarity and volume without extra mods.
Final Recommendations
- Best overall upgrade: Kicker DS Series (43DSC6504)—easy, clean, and substantial improvement.
- For more clarity: Kicker CS Series (46CSC654) without extra complexity.
- Want OEM simplicity? Harmony R65 Kit—seamless, nudge-free upgrade.
- High-end sound: Custom build with Kenwood + tweeters + subwoofer and sound-deadened panels.
Conclusion
Upgrading your 2013 Ford Fusion’s speakers is a smart and rewarding project. You’ll enjoy clearer dialogue, tighter bass, and better music—all with simple, proven solutions. Start with Kicker DS or CS for plug-and-play ease. Want more? Consider a custom sub system. Either way, your drive will sound miles better.
Ready to upgrade? Tell me your budget and audio goals, and I’ll help you build a setup that fits your Fusion and your sound preferences. Let’s get your car sounding amazing.