Scenario 1: Factory Pre-wiring and Cutouts Exist
This is the easiest case. You'll need:
* Replacement rear speakers: Choose speakers that fit the existing mounting locations. Check your owner's manual or online resources for speaker specifications (size, mounting depth) to ensure compatibility. Common sizes for Cavaliers are 4x6" or 5x7", but verify this.
* Screwdrivers: Phillips head and possibly flathead, depending on the speaker mounting.
* Wire strippers/cutters (optional): If you need to extend existing wiring.
* Electrical tape (optional): For securing wire connections.
Steps:
1. Remove the rear deck panel: This usually involves releasing plastic clips and carefully prying the panel loose. Consult a repair manual or online guide specific to the 2001 Cavalier for precise instructions, as forcing it could damage it. There are typically plastic clips and screws involved.
2. Locate the speaker wires: They'll be connected to the existing (presumably non-functional) speakers or wired into a connector.
3. Disconnect the old speakers (if present): Carefully unplug the wiring harness from the old speakers.
4. Remove the old speakers: Usually involve removing screws or unsnapping from the mounting brackets.
5. Install the new speakers: Mount the new speakers in the same location as the old ones, ensuring a secure fit.
6. Connect the wiring harness: Connect the wires from the new speakers to the existing wiring harness. Make sure the positive (+) and negative (-) wires match.
7. Test the speakers: Before reinstalling the rear deck, briefly test the speakers using your car's audio system.
8. Reinstall the rear deck panel: Carefully snap or screw the panel back into place.
Scenario 2: Factory Pre-wiring, But No Cutouts
This is more complex. You'll need everything from Scenario 1, plus:
* Speaker mounting brackets or adapters: These will allow you to securely attach the speakers to the rear deck. You may need to create custom mounting solutions.
* Possibly a jigsaw or hole saw: To create speaker cutouts in the rear deck.
Steps:
1. Follow Steps 1-2 from Scenario 1.
2. Cut the speaker holes (carefully!): Measure and mark carefully before cutting the holes for the new speakers. A poorly placed hole can be disastrous.
3. Install the speaker mounting brackets: Secure the brackets firmly to the rear deck.
4. Mount and connect the speakers (as in Scenario 1).
5. Test and reinstall.
Scenario 3: No Factory Wiring
This is the most challenging. You'll need everything from Scenario 2, plus:
* Speaker wire: Sufficient length to run from the head unit or an amplifier to the rear speakers.
* Wire connectors: To securely join the wires.
* Possibly a multimeter: To test wiring continuity.
* Wire loom (optional): For protecting and organizing the wiring.
* An amplifier (possibly): Depending on your head unit's power output. You might need an amplifier to power the rear speakers sufficiently if your head unit isn't powerful enough.
Steps:
1. Run new speaker wire: This is the most difficult part, requiring potentially removing interior panels to route the wires neatly and safely. This is often best done by accessing the wires near the head unit and running them along existing wire harnesses. Consult an online wiring diagram for your car.
2. Follow Steps 2-5 from Scenario 2.
3. Connect the new wiring to your head unit or amplifier. This may require significant technical expertise to identify and tap into the correct wires in your head unit or install an amplifier.
4. Test and reinstall.
Important Considerations:
* Repair manual: A repair manual specific to your 2001 Chevy Cavalier is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions.
* Safety: Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work.
* Patience: This is a potentially time-consuming project.
If you're not comfortable with any of these steps, it's best to consult a professional car audio installer. Improper wiring can damage your car's electrical system.
