2014 Jeep Wrangler Radio Replacement

Read on for instructions on how to do a 2014 Jeep Wrangler radio replacement, plus recommendations for aftermarket stereo systems.
Written by David Ghanizadeh-Khoob
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
To replace your 2014 Jeep Wrangler’s radio, you will have to disassemble the dashboard panel, uninstall the old radio, and install your new radio. Additional steps and modifications may be required depending on which stereo you choose.
The Jeep Wrangler has a reputation for being a monster off-road. What it doesn’t have a reputation for is its great audio system. That can make it tempting to swap out the OEM radio for a new and improved aftermarket sound system. 
Fortunately for you, if you have some DIY skills, the process for replacing the radio in a 2014 Jeep Wrangler is pretty straightforward and could even save you some money on labor fees.
Jerry
—the top-rated app for finding affordable
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—has put together all the steps involved in a 2014 Jeep Wrangler radio replacement, plus some tips for lowering your
Jeep Wrangler car insurance costs

$152

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$1,823

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How to change the radio on a 2014 Jeep Wrangler 

Changing the radio on a 2014 Jeep Wrangler requires a fair amount of dash disassembly but is straightforward enough for anyone with a socket set and some gumption. 
You’ll need a panel tool or screwdriver, socket wrench, a flashlight, and a 7mm socket.
To remove the factory radio, you’ll have to remove the dashboard trim that surrounds the radio and unscrew the four bolts that hold it in place. Once the old radio is out, you can install your choice of aftermarket stereo. 
Some sound systems require some modification to your vehicle before they can be installed. You’ll want to know what modifications are required before you tear apart your dash. 
Depending on the modifications required, you might want to consider letting a professional handle the job.
Let’s get into the details:

1. Remove the vents

The dashboard panel that you need to remove houses three vents as well as the radio. You will have to remove the vent to the left of the steering wheel and the vents directly below the radio.
To remove the vents, angle the louvers and spin them until you see a small square hole in the rim of the vent housing. Line up the hole on the vent housing with the hole on the locking mechanism. The lock should be along the top of the vent. Use a flashlight to help you see when the holes line up.
Once you have access to the locking mechanism, insert your screwdriver into the hole and gently pry downward on the locking mechanism. As you do this, turn the whole vent housing counterclockwise. This will release the lock so that you can slide the vents out. 

2. Remove the power window switch

The power window switch in the center of the dash will also need to come out.
After you’ve removed the vents, you can reach into the holes left by the two central vents and pop the release switches on either side of the power window switch assembly. 
Pull the assembly out, then use the red locking mechanism on the side to disconnect the wiring. Use a flat screwdriver to push the red locking mechanism up from the bottom to release it. This will allow you to squeeze and remove the wiring unit.

3. Unscrew the first two 7mm bolts

The center dash has two 7mm bolts to remove. The steering column dash has another two bolts. First, find the two bolts in the center dash.
One is located under the power steering switch, which should now be visible.
The other is located under the rubber liner in the storage tray on top of the dashboard. Pop the liner out, and you should find the bolt.
Remember to keep any bolts you remove in a safe place for later.

4. Remove the 7mm bolts by the steering wheel

Next are the two bolts in the dashboard by the steering wheel. Lift the steering wheel to its highest position to help access the panel below. 
To access the bolts, remove the panel around the base of the steering wheel. There are no screws or latches. The panel has hinges at the bottom and should be able to snap down from the top. 
Once the panel is open, locate and remove the two 7mm bolts to the left and right of the steering wheel.

5. Remove the trim panel

Finally, it’s time to pop off the panel that houses the radio. Lowering the steering column can help make this step easier, but you should be able to just wiggle the panel out without much hassle. 

6. Uninstall the radio

Now that you have clear access to the radio, uninstall it by removing the four 7mm bolts that secure the stereo system and disconnect the cables at the back.

7. Install the new radio

All that’s left to do is to follow these steps in reverse order to install a new stereo system.
If your new sound system requires making modifications to your vehicle, make sure you have clear instructions if you plan to undertake those modifications yourself.
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The best aftermarket car stereo head units for a 2014 Jeep Wrangler

If you’re on the hunt for a new car stereo, we’ll get you started with a few recommendations. You won’t find an OEM option in Jeep’s Mopar store, so you’ll have to go aftermarket.
The 2014 Wrangler comes with a double din stereo system (this just describes the size of the unit). Single din stereos will fit, but as for any aftermarket stereo you buy, you will have to look into any accessories required for installation.
As well, some aftermarket stereos will require you to trim down the bar at the top of the dash opening to create space or some additional configuring. Specific installation instructions should be included.
Here are our choices for the top aftermarket stereos for your 2014 Jeep Wrangler:

Boss BE7ACP-FT

We love the
Boss BE7ACP-FT
as a high-value option for your Jeep. The stereo goes for about $300, making it an affordable option with all the features you need. 
The stereo doesn’t have a CD player but offers a connection to your digital audio devices via Bluetooth and USB. The system is also compatible with backup cameras, giving you an additional safety option.

Jensen CAR910W

The next step up on our list is the
Jensen CAR910W
, with its 9-inch display bringing you more tech compatibility at a price that doesn’t break the bank.
With this stereo, you’ll have built-in access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, backup camera compatibility, hands-free controls through Bluetooth, and a push-to-talk button that connects to your phone’s voice assistant.

Alpine Halo9 iLX-F509

With the
Alpine Halo9 iLX-F509
, we’re entering the high-end stereo territory. This system sells for $1,200
For the high price tag, you get more advanced technology, including some options for adjusting where the display sits to improve how it fits on your dash.
The Alpine Halo9 iLX-F509 comes with all of the latest features, like hands-free controls, built-in GPS, and smartphone integration. You also gain an additional camera input and the luxury of a 9-inch adjustable high-definition display.

Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX

Finally, we have the
Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX
, with a 10.1-inch high-definition display and all of the latest tech features packed into one sleek unit.
For $1,500, you get what you pay for. This thing has pretty much every feature you could want from a car stereo system and then some. 
It includes all of the tech and compatibility mentioned thus far and expands by adding built-in Amazon Alexa voice controls and a micro HDMI input. If you are looking for a top-of-the-line car stereo, this is the one for you.
MORE: The 12 best Jeep accessories

How to save on Jeep Wrangler insurance costs

One downside of upgrading your Jeep Wrangler’s stereo system is the effect it can have on your
car insurance
rates. A high-end sound system is seen as a theft risk and can cause your insurance premiums to shoot up. 
Moreover, you’ll probably have to add
sound system coverage
to your policy to cover any aftermarket stereo.
Thankfully,
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