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2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Crew Cab

How to upgrade the stereo system in your Silverado or Sierra

2007 Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab

In brief: This Crutchfield Research Garage article gives you an overview of your truck's stock stereo system and your aftermarket upgrade options. We'll tell you all about:

Then, use our vehicle selector to find the gear that will fit your pickup.

Overview of the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra

Pickups aren’t just about hauling what’s in the bed or on the hitch anymore. They now feature interior touches that rival some luxury cars. The audio/video equipment in this new breed of pickup truck is no exception, and Chevrolet made sure to equip the new-for-2007 Silverado/Sierra Crew Cab 1500/2500 with some top notch features.

If you didn’t get the premium stereo on your truck, or you just want to improve on what’s already there, you can add anything from a simple speaker upgrade to a complete mobile theater makeover.

The chassis discussed here, known inside GM as the GMT900 and to the rest of the world as the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, was introduced in 2007 (it's sometimes referred to as the "2007.5 Chevy Silverado").

Chevy Silverado GMT800

The GMT800 generation has a rather distinct face (Crutchfield Research Photo)

The previous generation, the GMT800, hung around for another year as the "Classic" model. If you're not sure which '07 version you have, compare your truck to the photos above. The more aggressive-looking "Classic" features distinct "eyebrows" above the headlamps, plus a slight dip in the front bumper to accommodate the grille.

Factory radio

The Chevy Silverado offered several dfferent factory radios, any of which can be replaced when you have the right kit and harness. (Crutchfield Research Photo)

The factory stereo system

These trucks came equipped with several stereo systems, including a 6-CD (in-dash) Bose® system and options to add navigation, rear seat audio, DVD systems, or satellite radio. It’s possible to add to or completely replace any of these stereo systems fairly easily, though getting to the amplifier and 6-1/2" subwoofer of the Bose system requires some extensive tear down of the interior. And it’s not hard to replace any of the features you may lose by taking out the factory stereo, because there are adapters that let you keep OnStar®, steering wheel controls, Bluetooth® and more.

You'll need a mounting kit to trim out the new radio, along with an antenna adapter that allows you to connect the Chevy antenna plug to your new radio. You'll get these parts at a deep discount with your receiver order, along with free step-by-step instructions for your Silverado. We also offer a big discount on the special adapters (see below) that you'll need for this installation.

Dash without radio

The Silverado's rather spacious dash opening (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the factory radio

These are reasonably easy systems to work with, but there are some differences between the regular and Bose systems. We want to give you a heads up now, but don't stress too much about the details. When the time comes for a new one, our Crutchfield MasterSheet instructions will tell you exactly how to install an aftermarket stereo in your Silverado or Sierra, no matter which version you have.

Standard system

If you’re replacing your standard GM radio, you’ll need to purchase an adapter that allows you to install a new stereo and still retain your warning chimes (along with OnStar functionality if you have it). You’ll also need a relay to keep your audible turn signals working with your new car stereo.

Bose system

If you’re replacing your GM Bose radio, you’ll need to buy an adapter to install your new stereo, allowing you to retain your warning chimes, the use of the Bose amplifier, and your OnStar functionality (if you have it). Another note: if you have the GM Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system, you also need a separate adapter to keep that system working and connect it to the audio/video output on your new receiver.

The Crutchfield website will make sure you get what you need for a proper installation. And if you have any questions about this stuff, our Advisors are just a phone call or chat session away.

Note: Some double-DIN radios may not fit because of irregularities in the dash substructure. It’s best to pick a double-DIN radio with wire harnesses or RCA connectors located on the bottom half of the back of the radio. Your other option is to pick a new radio with a depth that’s less than 6-1/2 inches.

Tools needed: Panel tool, 7mm socket and ratchet.

Detailed stereo and speaker removal instructions

MasterSheet image
With step-by-step disassembly instructions and plenty of up-close, detailed photos, our exclusive Crutchfield MasterSheet™ takes the guesswork out of removing the factory stereo and speakers. It's free with your Crutchfield order, or you can purchase one separately for just $9.99.

Read our Car Stereo Buying Guide for shopping tips and advice.

Shop for car stereos that fit your GMC Sierra

Steering wheel audio controls

It's relatively easy to retain your truck's steering wheel audio controls when you install a new stereo. When you enter your vehicle information, our database will choose the adapter you need to make your factory steering wheel controls work with your aftermarket receiver.

silverado sierra front door speakers

The front doors will hold a variety of aftermarket speakers (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the factory speakers

Replacing the speakers in your Silverado or Sierra is a reasonably straightforward process. Our expert Advisors can help you choose your speakers, and when your buy from Crutchfield, you also get free tech support for the life of your gear.

silverado front door speaker

A speaker upgrade will really boost your truck's audio performance (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the front and rear door speakers

The factory speakers in the front doors are closest in size to an aftermarket 6-3/4" speaker, but you’ll need an adapter plate to install any speaker in there. The front doors will accept several very common speaker sizes, including 6-3/4", 6-1/2", 5-1/4", and the adapter plates make for an easy installation. GM uses a 4-ohm speaker in the front doors, so you have lots of great choices.

In the Bose system, the speakes are low-impedance models, so you should replace them with low-impedance aftermarket speakers. A standard 4-ohm speaker will result in reduced volume.

You'll need speaker harnesses to attach your new speakers to the plugs that connect to the GM factory speakers. The speaker harnesses and speaker mounting brackets are included at a deep discount with every Crutchfield speaker order.

You can use the same size speakers in the rear doors. If you rarely have passengers in the rear seats, you might consider using these locations for midrange speakers that will really fill out your music’s sound. On the other hand, if you do a lot of people-hauling, you should consider replacing the rear door speakers with full-range units, which will maintain some high notes for back-seat passengers.

silverado sierra Bose tweeters

The Bose system includes A-pillar tweeters. (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Removing the front pillar speakers

The A-pillar tweeters found in some trucks are easy to remove, but you’ll need to do a bit of work to install the replacements. There's no wiring harness adapter made for this location, either, so you'll need a set of Posi-Products speaker connectors to hook everything up. You'll also need a mounting bracket, and using our universal backstraps will be a much easier solution than making one of your own. You can also use hot glue or silicone to secure your new tweeters.

Tools needed: small flat blade screwdriver

Read our Car Speakers Buying Guide for more information

Shop for speakers that fit your GMC Sierra

silverado subwoofer speaker

This Bose subwoofer is mounted in the center console (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Bass in your Silverado or Sierra

If your Silverado or Sierra came equipped with the Bose® system, there is a small woofer mounted in the center console, along with the amplifier that powers all your factory Bose speakers. If you want more bass, it’s a good idea to simply eliminate or bypass this woofer and add a new, larger sub with a more powerful amp.

Thanks to a variety of custom enclosures that fit in the center console or under the rear seats, you’ll be able to keep valuable interior room and add more kick to your music and movies. To see the complete list of what's available, enter your truck's information in our Outfit My Car page.

Learn more about building a bass system in our Car Subwoofer Buying Guide.

Shop for vehicle-specific subwoofers for your GMC Sierra

chevy silverado interior

A well-appointed truck deserves well-chosen audio and electronic gear. (Crutchfield Research Photo)

Other options for your Silverado or Sierra

There are plenty of other ways to improve your pickup. Here are a few suggestions:

Rear seat video

The optional DVD system features a flip-down screen in a roof console and two pairs of wireless headphones. A secondary set of controls for the radio and DVD system are housed in the rear of center console, and some models include an A/V input for adding more gear, like a gaming console. If you’re replacing the factory stereo, you’ll need an adapter to keep that system working and connect it to the audio/video output on your new receiver.

Adding an aftermarket DVD player and screens to a Silverado is pretty easy, thanks to products like flip-down overhead monitors with DVD players or replacement headrest screens that match the truck’s interior.

SiriusXM satellite radio

GM made satellite radio available as an option on most models. If you have a current subscription, you’ll want to add a new satellite radio tuner to your new head unit. You can call SiriusXM to move service over to the new stereo. If you have multiple vehicles, consider getting a plug-and-play tuner to take your satellite radio along, no matter which vehicle you’re driving.

Add a new amplifier for even better sound

The factory Bose system includes amps, but they aren’t ideal for use with aftermarket head units or speakers. It’s best to bypass or eliminate these amps in favor of newer gear if you want the best possible sound. You’ll find room for a new 4-channel amp in the spaces under and behind the seats or in the center console. Learn more about adding amps to your system in our Car Amplifier Buying Guide.

Remote start and security systems

Adding remote start capability to your vehicle lets you warm it up in the winter or cool it down in the summer. The iDatastart system is incredibly convenient and makes it easier than ever to install a remote start system, so we highly recommend it. The module requires a vehicle-specific T-harness (sold separately) to connect with your vehicle's computer, security, and ignition systems, so we ask that you call to order so that we can make sure you get the right harness for your ride.

You can also talk to your Crutchfield Advisor about a security system. They’re not as easy to install (we usually suggest letting a professional do the job), but we can help you choose a system that’ll work in your vehicle.

Let's get started!

Ready to shop? Use our vehicle selector to find the gear that will fit your car or truck. If you have questions of your own, give us a shout via phone, chat, or email

Please share your thoughts below.

  • Christopher Lewis from Hattieburg

    Posted on 8/19/2022

    I would like to change out my console with a digital display that is android compatible. Would it be possible and with what kit?

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 8/22/2022

    Christopher, When you enter your vehicle's info into our Outfit My Car tool, you'll see which stereos fit your car, plus the correct harness. If you have any questions, our advisors are available via phone or chat.
  • Jeremy Dente from Angels Camp

    Posted on 12/27/2021

    Does the 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab (non-Bose system) have a factory-installed amplifier?

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 12/28/2021

    Jeremy, No, the amp is a Bose-only thing in these trucks.
  • Carson from Orang park

    Posted on 9/9/2021

    I'd like to figure out the mounting depth for front and rear doors on my 2012 ext cab Silverado.

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 9/10/2021

    Carson, We already have, so you can skip directly to choosing speakers. When you enter your vehicle's info into our Outfit My Car tool, you'll see which stereos fit your truck. If you have any questions, our advisors are available via phone or chat.
  • Eric from Scottsdale

    Posted on 7/29/2021

    I have an 07 Sierra with the Bose system still working great but it has the smaller narrow head unit. I'd like to swap out that limited head unit for a Bose-compatible fully equipped modern large touch display with Bluetooth that lets me add a backup camera while keeping all other OEM features (steering control, rear set control, etc). Can Crutchfield help getting me a full set of recommended equipment and steps?

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 7/30/2021

    Eric, When you enter your vehicle's info into our Outfit My Car tool, you'll see which stereos fit your car, plus the correct harness. If you have any questions, our advisors are available via phone or chat.
  • Gary G Nichols from El Paso, TX

    Posted on 7/2/2021

    I am looking to add WiFi to my 2013 GMC SIERRA 1500 Extended Cab, ON Star is this possible.

  • Raymond from Barling

    Posted on 11/16/2020

    I have a 2008 gmc 3500 and want a system that is crystal clear and full range sound with enough power to drown out highway noise. I am not certain what to order??

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 11/17/2020

    Raymond, Happy to help. I've sent your question to our sales team, and they'll be contacting you via email soon. For immediate help, you can contact them via phone or chat.
  • Jeff Miller from Fort McCoy

    Posted on 8/28/2020

    I have a 2010 Chevy Silverado LTZ with the Bose system, Ialready parched new speakers and head unit from Crutchfield, I want to add a 5 channel amp just don't know how to bypass the Bose amp, any suggestions

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 8/31/2020

    Jeff, If you bought your gear from Crutchfield, you can call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system. If you purchased your equipment elsewhere, you can still get expert Crutchfield Tech Support - 90 days-worth for only $30. Check out our tech support page for details.
  • Moses

    Posted on 6/20/2020

    I have a 2007 gmc Yukon sle trim and it comes with the standard audio system, i want to upgrade it to gmc denali audio system by gathering the speakers & the amp and the head unit... from a crashed Denali, my question is that will it work? What wires should i get too? Keep in mind that I'm taking the head unit without the screen and the gps but the one that have a dvd slot for rear entertainment.

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 6/23/2020

    Moses, Maybe? OEM-for-OEM swamps like that aren't our usual thing, though, so it's hard to say for sure. Someone's probably tried this before, so you might want to check some owners' forums to see what they learned. Good luck!
  • Luis Melendez from Laurel

    Posted on 5/27/2020

    What if you want to put a 2012-2014 factory GM Nav Bose rear dvd radio in the older 2007-2011 Tahoe? Is there a harness adapter out there to make this swap?

  • wbrazil from denver

    Posted on 5/26/2020

    Have a 2011 gmc 2500 sierra with Bose. Not my daily driver. Sadly no Bluetooth (aux inputs). It does have the factory Navigation on the head unit which i'd like to keep. Would i be able to simply switch out the amp and add in a dedicated line level input in which i could bypass the head unit? As always, appreciate the expertise here!

    Commenter image

    Jon Paul from Crutchfield

    on 5/26/2020

    Winton, Thanks! With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
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