Aftermarket Sub & Amp Install?

CODRA BLU

MEMBER
2013 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV
V8
AUTOMATIC
124,000 MILES

Wondering if my vehicle (2013 Cadillac Escalade ESV) has a factory amplifier installed. I don't think the vehicle has premium audio system, there is no branding on the speakers as with other vehicles I have had with premium audio. Wondering how I would go about installing an aftermarket sub and amp. Can I tap into rear speakers for the audio signal? Do I need to use a line out converter? Am I able to connect remote turn on wire somewhere, and if so, where? Or would it require a switch in order to switch off and cut power to amp when turn vehicle off? Any information or instructions for installing aftermarket amp and sub in this vehicle would be appreciated.

Sunday, April 26th, 2026 AT 1:04 PM

1 Reply

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
15,706 POSTS

The base stereo is the only one without an amp. The easy way to tell is that all of the systems but the base version already has a subwoofer installed. The OE subs are installed in one of two spots, at the base of the instrument panel near the heat ducts or in the base of the console where the seats are. The factory amp would be under the console bolted to the floor. Without it you would be better off to install either a stereo subwoofer amp or twin amps and twin smaller subs using line level converters to pick up the signals from both sides. Then through the amp to the subs. There is a signal that may turn on those amps. It is a white wire that comes out of connector X1 on terminal 6. Be careful though, GM also used white wires for some other systems.

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Sunday, April 26th, 2026 AT 2:01 PM