Installing rear speakers on the ŠKODA Octavia A7: from selection to installation

Rear speakers in ŠKODA Octavia A7 — the weak point of the standard audio system. Even in top trim levels rear shelf acoustics often leaves much to be desired: muffled high frequencies, lack of bass and a general “emptiness” of sound. Installing high-quality speakers solves this problem, but requires knowledge of the nuances - from choosing a model to the correct connection to the radio.

In this article you will find step by step instructions with photos, recommendations for choosing acoustics (including compatibility with Bolero, Amundsen and Columbus), and also unique installation techniques, which save time and eliminate errors. We took into account the specifics Octavia A7 (including 2017 facelift) and typical problems that owners encounter when upgrading sound.

Why do the standard rear speakers in the Octavia A7 sound bad?

The manufacturer saves on the acoustics of the rear shelf: in most configurations, speakers with a diameter of 165 mm with paper diffusers and weak magnets. Their key disadvantages:

• 🔊 Lack of clear high frequencies — paper diffusers do not cope with the reproduction above 12 kHz, which makes the sound “dull”.
• 🎵 Weak bass - due to the small basket (50 mm) and the absence of a bass reflex, the speakers do not produce frequencies lower 80 Hz.
• 🔌 Low power - standard speakers are designed for 20–30 W, while even budget radios give out up to 50 W to the channel.
• 🛠️ Poor sealing — the gaps between the speaker and the shelf allow sound waves to pass through, creating resonance.

In addition, in Octavia A7 rear speakers connected via passive filter (in configurations with Bolero and Amundsen), which cuts frequencies below 100 Hz. This makes the bass even less noticeable. The solution is to install speakers with extended frequency range (from 40 Hz) and replacing the filter with an active one (if a major upgrade is planned).

⚠️ Attention: In cars with the system Canton (optional for Columbus) the rear speakers have non-standard impedance 2 ohm. Connecting conventional 4 ohm speakers without an adapter will lead to distortion!

Choosing rear speakers: which ones are suitable for the Octavia A7?

When choosing acoustics, consider three key parameters: size, power and resistance. For Octavia A7 (before and after facelift in 2017) suitable speakers with diameter:

• 📏 165 mm (6.5") - standard size for most trim levels. Seat depth - up to 60 mm.
• 📏 130 mm (5.25") - found in basic versions with the system Swing (until 2015).

Recommended models (price/quality ratio):

Model	Diameter	Power (RMS)	Frequency range	Features
Morel Tempo Ultra 602	165 mm	80 W	40 Hz – 22 kHz	Silk dome, neodymium magnet, ideal for high frequencies
Focal Access 165 A1	165 mm	70 W	55 Hz – 21 kHz	Aramid fiber, good bass for its size
Alpine S-S65	165 mm	60 W	65 Hz – 29 kHz	Budget option with polypropylene diffuser
Hertz DCX 165.3	165 mm	90 W	45 Hz – 23 kHz	Premium segment, Kevlar diffuser, high efficiency

For systems with Canton impedance speakers required 2 ohm (for example, JBL GTO629) or resistance adapters (sold on AliExpress). If you plan to connect speakers to an amplifier, choose models with RMS ≥ 80 W - this is a reserve for a future upgrade.

Installation Tools and Materials

Before starting work, prepare:

Torx screwdriver T20 and T25 (for removing trim)

Plastic mounting spatulas (to avoid damaging the clips)

Soldering iron or crimp terminals (for connecting wires)

Multimeter (to check polarity)

Double-sided tape or sealant (to seal the speakers)

Speaker wires (cross-section not less than 1.5 mm²)

Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing-->

If the speakers come without adapter frames, order adapters for ŠKODA Octavia A7 (item: 5E0 035 401/402). They allow you to install 165 mm acoustics in standard holes without modifications. To seal, use vibroplast or bimast - this will improve the sound insulation of the shelf.

⚠️ Attention: In cars with the system Canton The rear speaker wires have a non-standard pinout. Before cutting off the standard wires necessarily check the polarity with a multimeter in continuity mode!

Removing the rear shelf trim: step-by-step instructions

The algorithm for dismantling the trim is the same for the sedan and liftback Octavia A7:

1. Open the trunk and remove plastic cover above the lanterns (pry it up from the side with a spatula).

2. Unscrew two screws Torx T20 under the cover.

3. Gently pull the shelf trim up - it is supported by 6 plastic clips. Start at the corner on the side of the door.

4. Disconnect the trunk light connectors (if equipped).

In cars with panoramic roof The casing is secured with additional clips on the sides. To avoid breaking them, heat the plastic with a hairdryer (temperature 50–60°C).

How to remove the trim if the clips are broken?

If the clips break off, use self-tapping screws with press washer (diameter 3.5 mm). Drill holes in the metal shelf and plastic trim, then tighten the screws. Alternative - glue 3M VHB, but it is less reliable during temperature changes.

After removing the casing, you will see the standard speakers attached to metal frame four self-tapping screws Torx T25. Don't rush to unscrew them - first disconnect the power connector!

Connecting new speakers: diagram and nuances

Standard pinout of rear speaker wires in Octavia A7:

• 🔴 Red - plus (+) left speaker.
• 🔵 Blue - minus (−) left speaker.
• 🟢 Green - plus (+) right-hand dynamics.
• 🟤 Yellow - minus (−) right-hand dynamics.

On systems with Canton The colors may be different! To avoid mistakes:

1. Turn on the music on the tape and set the balance on rear-left speaker.

2. Put the multimeter in mode. AC 20V The wires will be on the "plus" voltage 1-3 V.

3. Mark the wires with tape and repeat for the right speaker.

Use:

• 🔧 Crimp terminals If the speaker wires are thin (0.5 mm²).
• 🔥 Pike - for reliable contact (recommended for powerful systems).

Speaker installation and assembly

Before installing the new speakers:

1. Apply sealant (for example, ABRO 11AB) at the edge of the landing hole, this will prevent whistles at high frequencies.

2. If the speaker is deeper than the standard, finalize the shelf: cut out some of the plastic under the magnet (use it). Dremel or a metal hacksaw.

3. Secure the speaker with self-tapping (M4x16 mm) through a transitional frame.

After installation:

1. Check the sound at different frequencies (use test tracks with different frequencies) 20 Hz up to 20 kHz).

2. If you hear a resonance, seal the inside of the shelf skin vibroplast.

3. Set the skin in reverse order, making sure the clips are clicked.

Setting up sound after installation

Even the best speakers will sound bad without the right tape setup. For Bolero/Amundsen/Columbus do:

1. Reset the sound settings to factory: Settings → System → Reset → Audio.

2. Turn off the equaliser: Settings → Sound → Equalizer → Flat.

3. Set the balance: front/back-- 0, left/right-- 0.

4. Activate mode Loudness (if any) to compensate for low frequencies at low volumes.

For fine tuning, use test tracks:

• 🎶 Bass.: "Bass I Love You" — Bass Mekanik (frequency check) 40–80 Hz).
• 🎶 Mid-frequency: "Hotel California" — Eagles (guitar, vocals)
• 🎶 Treble: "Bohemian Rhapsody" — Queen (symbols, claps).

If the bass is still weak, consider installing it. subwoofer or amplifier (for example, Alpine KTA-450 under the seat.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Owner experience Octavia A7 80% of the audio problems after installation are due to three errors:

1. Wrong polarity. Symptoms: The bass "disappears", the sound seems "flat". Solution: swap seats + and − It's on the same speaker.

2. Poor sealing. Symptoms: whistle at high frequencies, resonance on uneven roads. Solution: glue speakers around the perimeter butyl rubber tape.

3. Ignoring the setting of the magnetola. Symptoms: The sound is “deaf” or too bright. Solution: Use RTA analyzer (for example, application AudioTool for smartphone).

Another typical problem is engine-noise. It is caused by food intrusions. To eliminate:

• 🔌 Install capacitor (1 Farad) next to the amplifier.
• 🔌 Replace the power lines with the copper-oxygen (section 4 mm²).
• 🔌 Ground the speakers on the body (use) mass-station under the dashboard).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions

Is it possible to install 165mm speakers in the Octavia A7 without modifications?

Yes, if used transitional framework (article 5E0 035 401/402). They compensate for the difference in diameter between the standard hole (150 mm) and a new speaker. Without frames, you will need to widen the hole with a file.

How to check if the speakers are suitable for the Canton system?

Look at the resistance on the speaker housing: for Canton need 2 ohm. If the speakers 4 Ohm, use resistance adapters or replace the standard amplifier with an aftermarket solution (for example, Helix P Six DSP).

Do I need to change wires when installing powerful speakers?

Yes, if the speaker power exceeds 60W RMS. State of wire in Octavia A7 have a cross section 0.35 mm², which causes losses at high frequencies. The best option is oxygen-copper cable cross section 1.5–2.5 mm².

Why did the sound become quieter after installing the speakers?

Probable reasons:

1. Wrong polarity (check with multimeter).
2. Low speaker impedance (e.g. 2 ohm instead of 4 ohm).
3. The filter in the radio is activated (turn off Loudness and equalizer).

Is it possible to install speakers yourself without experience?

Yes, if you follow the instructions and use it plastic spatulas to remove the casing. The main thing is to take your time when cutting the wires and check the polarity at each stage. For the first time, we recommend choosing speakers with ready-made adapters (for example, Pioneer TS-A1676F).