With the help of Apple CarPlay, individuals have been able to change the way how they deal with their vehicles during rather monotonous and routine trips. But what if the car you are using does not have this cool feature and you wonder how to add CarPlay to any car like yours? Don’t worry fellow drivers! There are plenty of ways to retrofit CarPlay into any car – whether the car is an oldie or the newest edition with the lack of modern appealing features.
Are your old cars monotonous and in need of some color sprucing up on the dashboard? Below are three straightforward methods of integrating the Apple CarPlay into your car and getting your query solved “How to add CarPlay to any Car”.
Next, we will describe the basic scenarios, such as when a new receiver is installed, when using adapters, or when adding portable displays. Following these tips will assist you to make your car more intelligent and incorporate technology. As you prepare to turn your ‘regular’ car into a rolling computing powerhouse, get ready and read this article till the end.
If you have an Android Phone then read this article to know how you can use Android Auto in your car infotainment system. Also how you can play videos of Netflix, YouTube, etc on Android Auto.
How to Add CarPlay to Any Car?
As we discussed above, in this article we will go through the 3 easiest and best ways how to add CarPlay to any car if it doesn’t have one or your infotainment system is not compatible with CarPlay. Here we go:
Option 1: Install an Aftermarket CarPlay Receiver
Said that, if you would like to upgrade your car with Apple CarPlay, then adding a new receiver is the best way to do. The first procedure that is commonly implemented is to remove the current entertainment system of the car and install a new one that is compatible with CarPlay.
Picking the Best Receiver
It’s the size of the receiver when selecting one, isn’t it? In looking to buy a receiver, always look for one that will not compromise on the appearance of your car making it look like a stock unit. Among them are Sony 6, Aigo, Irome, pawer, Siimone, Coby, Sanos, HEC and so on. Notably, for the 8″ and 2” CarPlay receivers, the models in question are the Pioneer DMH-1770NEX. Here’s a tip: This up-and-down buttoning is okay if you are a fan of the original knobs and pioneered buttons – especially for volumes which are more preferred when they are actual knobs.
How to Install It?
Here’s where the process gets a bit complicated. To put in an aftermarket receiver, you’ll need:
- To take out the old infotainment system
- To hook up the new receiver
- To sync it with your car’s electrical setup
If you’re unsure about your handyman skills, you might want to let experts handle this. Getting it installed by professionals can set you back $100 to $500, based on how intricate the job is.
Good and Bad Points
Good points:
- You can tailor your infotainment experience
- You get to use cutting-edge features
- It might cost less than systems installed at the factory
Bad points:
- Installing it can be tricky
- You might need to change your dashboard
- You could lose the ability to use built-in cameras or system controls
Option 2: Use a CarPlay Adapter for Factory Systems
CarPlay adapters are clever devices that can transform a regular car into a high-tech vehicle. These small gadgets plug into the car’s current infotainment system adding wireless CarPlay features to cars that had wired CarPlay or none at all.
How CarPlay Adapters Work
These adapters link your iPhone to your car’s system. They sync with your phone when you start the car even if it’s in your pocket or bag. The 5GHz Wi-Fi module inside makes for a quick connection. This lets you use Siri, get directions, or play your top songs without messing with wires.
Installation Steps
- Connect the adapter to the car’s USB port
- Switch on the radio and pick USB source
- Turn on Bluetooth on your iPhone
- Look for the adapter on your phone and pair it
- Allow needed permissions
Compatibility Considerations
Before buying, see if your car is one of the 600+ models that work with these adapters. They’re compatible with many brands such as Ford, Toyota, Honda, and Mercedes. Keep in mind, that your car needs to have a factory-installed CarPlay system for the adapter to work .
Option 3: Use a Portable CarPlay Display
The third option how to get CarPlay in any car is by using a CarPlay display. we will discuss what are those and how they can be used to set CarpPlay in any car below:
Types of Portable Displays
You can find portable CarPlay screens in different sizes ranging from small 5-inch models to big 10-inch displays. These aftermarket devices add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to cars without built-in systems. Some popular choices include the Ottocast Portable 10″ and 7″ touchscreens, which offer high-quality displays and two-camera setups to improve safety.
Setup and Usage
- Mount the portable display on the dashboard or windshield
- Connect to the car’s power source
- Link with your smartphone through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
- Use apps navigation, and music without touching your phone
Most portable displays work right out of the box making setup quick and easy for many people.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Portable CarPlay displays give you options letting you switch them between cars without hassle. They let you navigate, call, and play music without touching your phone, which ups your safety. But wireless connections can be shaky at times causing drops now and then. You might need to update the software to keep things running and to work with the newest smartphone features.
Conclusion
So how to add CarPlay to any car? Adding Apple CarPlay to your vehicle is now simpler than ever, with choices that fit all budgets and technical abilities. You can pick from a complete aftermarket receiver, a smart adapter, or a mobile screen – each option will make your drives better. These methods all have their good and bad points, so it’s a good idea to think about what you need and how your car is set up before you decide.
When all is said and done, making your car smarter with CarPlay isn’t just about staying in touch – it’s about driving more and having more fun on the road. So go for it, choose the option that suits you best, and get set to cruise with your top apps right there when you need them. Have a great time driving, and enjoy your tech-savvy car!
FAQs
Is it possible to install Apple CarPlay in any vehicle?/How to add CarPlay to any Car?
Yes, you can install Apple CarPlay in any vehicle without a built-in module. By choosing a CarPlay adapter that works with your car and setting it up, you can make your drives better with this new car tech.
What should I do to have CarPlay in my car if it doesn’t come with it?
How to add CarPlay to any car without it? You can buy a CarPlay interface like the RDVFL CarPlay Interface from RDV Automotive Technology. This device lets you add CarPlay to your car without wires, and you don’t need to change your car’s original radio.
How can I enable CarPlay functionality in my car?
To set up CarPlay in your car first check if your vehicle works with CarPlay or add a device that does. Then, link your Apple gadget to the car. You can do this with a USB cord or , based on what your car allows.
Can Apple CarPlay be integrated with an existing factory radio?
Yes, you can add Apple CarPlay to your current factory radio. This upgrade needs an aftermarket CarPlay receiver or interface module. This will boost your car’s entertainment system without having to switch out the original stereo.
