To replace the radio on your 2018 Jeep Compass, you’ll need to remove the front dashboard trim panel, uninstall the OEM stereo, and replace it with a new aftermarket version.

The 2018 Jeep Compass was a massive upgrade from the previous year’s model. The affordable, crossover SUV offers 27 cubic feet of rear luggage space and generates over 180 horsepower creating a Jeep that’s fun to drive, spacious and easy on the eyes.

Unfortunately, a simple Google search will show you the laundry list of frustrations that Compass owners have with the factory-installed stereo. Many owners have opted for an aftermarket replacement, and now you can too with this easy guide

Jerry

has created to quickly replace the stereo on your 2018 Jeep Compass.

licensed insurance broker

app for comparing

car insurance quotes online

, Jerry has the know-how and recommendations you need to upgrade your radio while also saving on

Jeep Compass insurance costs

How to change the radio on a 2018 Jeep Compass

Replacing the radio on your 2018 Jeep Compass is not as complicated as it sounds. To start, remove the factory radio. You’ll need to detach the radio panel that surrounds the radio and unscrew the four bolts locking the radio into position. Once finished, you can install an aftermarket stereo of your choosing.

Now that we’ve given you the bare-bones process, are you ready to get into the nitty-gritty? Great! Pick up a plastic trim stick, a T-25 Torx-bit screwdriver, and an aftermarket stereo of your choosing, and let’s upgrade your stereo!

1. Detach the radio panel

The first thing that needs to go is the panel surrounding your Jeep Compass’ radio. Grab your plastic trim stick and carefully edge the dark trim surrounding both the stereo and the vents. Gently pop the trim loose until the paneling pops off the dashboard.

2. Unscrew the radio

Once the panel has been removed from the dashboard, there are four screws (size 25 torx) keeping the OEM stereo locked in place. Use your T-25 Torx-bit screwdriver to remove all four screws.

3. Uninstall the radio

Once the four screws have been unfastened, slide the radio right out of its position by simply pulling on it. Disconnect all the cables connecting the radio to your Jeep Compass, and you are all set to install your new radio!

4. Reverse steps one through three

To install your new radio, take your aftermarket radio and simply reverse steps one through three. You will now be able to enjoy your new audio upgrade!

Some aftermarket rigs require precise calibrations before they can be installed. If that is the case, make sure to bring your Compass and the aftermarket stereo to a professional for a trouble-free installation.

MORE:

How to find your Jeep radio code

Jerry sends free alerts to keep your car up-to-date so you can avoid costly repairs

* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score

Get ahead of my car maintenance

* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score

The best aftermarket car stereo head units for a 2018 Jeep Compass

Whether you want a straightforward stereo system to play podcasts on your daily commute to work or you’re looking for a multimedia system to entertain friends on long road trips, the options for aftermarket upgrades for your Jeep Compass are plentiful!

Here are just a few recommendations for upgrades that check multiple entertainment boxes.

The complete package: The JVC KW-V960BW

A multimedia hub with unlimited potential for entertainment, the

JVC KW-V960BW

has something for everyone. Connect your smartphone to the customizable, easy-to-read 6.8” touchscreen display via Wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto interfaces.

Park your car and enjoy bright vibrant video content or entertain your passengers when you’re on the move by sending a movie from the receiver to a rear-seat screen. If you and your passengers can’t seem to make up their minds on what kind of entertainment to consume, then just utilize the dual-zone capability feature, allowing the driver to listen to tunes up front while the passengers in the back watch a movie.

For precise driving, the unit also offers four dedicated camera inputs for back-up, front-dash, and even side-view cameras in certain Compass models.

The JVC KW-V960BW offers up every entertainment scenario imaginable, but it comes at a rather steep price, retailing at $779.95.

The wireless wonder: The Sony XAV-AX 4000

Sony’s XAV-AX4000

digital multimedia receiver may not have a disc player, but its alternative options for in-car entertainment make sure you’re covered. The 6.95" resistive touchscreen uses anti-glare technology to make sure sunlit days don’t get in the way of viewing on-screen controls and content.

With onboard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay that you can access via a wireless connection, both Android and iPhone platforms are integrated into the unit along with voice command capabilities. Access your music library, Google Maps, and other apps without taking your eyes off the road.

The customizable wallpaper feature gives the XAV-AX4000 a personal touch. Sony also built in expansive sound-sculpting tools, controls for volume, track-skipping, and more. Sony's XAV-AX4000 retails for $598.00.

A Bluetooth behemoth: The Kenwood DDX9707S

Kenwood’s DDX9707S

takes into consideration the fact that entertainment is something meant to be enjoyed communally. Perhaps this is why the DDX9707S allows you to pair, via their Music Mix Feature, up to five phones, so everybody in the car can pick their tunes for the ultimate

road trip playlist

When you want to add amplifiers to the mix, the DDX9707S has you covered with three pairs of 4-volt RCA pre-amp outputs allowing for crystal-clear audio. Retailing at $799.99, the Kenwood DDX9707S offers a myriad of audio options.

Big screen entertainment: the Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX

The “floating” display on the

Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX

allows for ample adjustment space when installing this massive 9” touchscreen display in your Jeep Compass. The built-in Wi-Fi and hotspot capabilities make using Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even Amazon Alexa a breeze.

The built-in MOSFET amplifier and 13-band graphic equalizer help you maximize the audio for an encompassing entertainment experience. The Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX may retail for a hefty $1,300.00 but it also offers a built-in HD radio and satellite radio compatibility.

MORE: The 12 best Jeep accessories

How to save on Jeep Wrangler insurance costs

Although replacing the radio in your 2018 Jeep Compass is a fun and relatively easy venture, it won’t be cheap. If you’ve selected any of the high-end stereos listed above, you should absolutely consider adding

sound system coverage

to your policy since regular insurance probably won’t cover these devices, and their high-end quality makes all of them a theft risk.

Thankfully,

Jerry

can do just that in under a minute. Find

cheap car insurance

rates with sound system coverage from a pool of over 55 of the country’s top insurance providers and make sure you’re getting the best price for your insurance. Download the app today and see firsthand what Jerry can do!