Apple CarPlay is awesome and lets you connect your iPhone to your car’s stereo system. It’s a safer and more convenient way to access your phone’s features while driving, like navigation, music and phone calls. But if you have an older car that didn’t come with CarPlay built-in, you might have thought you were out of luck. Adding CarPlay to older cars is all the rage, much like past trends of upgrading car radios with newer technology.
Luckily you can add CarPlay to most older cars with an aftermarket stereo. In this article we’ll show you how.
Check CarPlay Compatibility
Before you begin, you need to check if your car is compatible with aftermarket CarPlay systems. Check your car’s make, model and year to see if there are any aftermarket stereos that fit your car. Also make sure your car has a double DIN slot or enough space to fit a new head unit.
Choose an Aftermarket CarPlay Stereo
Once you’ve checked compatibility, research and choose a reputable aftermarket CarPlay stereo that fits your car and budget. Make sure the stereo has all the features you need, like GPS navigation, backup camera support or wireless CarPlay. Some aftermarket CarPlay stereos also support Android Auto.
Get the Required Tools and Accessories
To install your new CarPlay stereo you’ll need a few tools and accessories. Buy a car stereo wiring harness adapter for your vehicle and get the necessary tools like a screwdriver, wire stripper, crimp tool and panel removal tools. Don’t forget any additional accessories you might need like a GPS antenna, USB extension cable or steering wheel control adapter.
Disconnect the Car Battery
Before you start the installation, find and disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery. This is important to prevent short circuits during the installation process.
Remove the Old Stereo
Use panel removal tools to remove the trim panels around your car’s current stereo. Unscrew any bolts or screws holding the old stereo in place, then disconnect the wiring harness and antenna connections from the back of the old stereo.
Install the Wiring Harness Adapter
Match the color codes of the wiring harness adapter to your car’s wiring harness and use the crimp tool to connect the corresponding wires. Wrap the connections with electrical tape for extra protection.
Install the CarPlay Stereo
Plug the wiring harness adapter into the new CarPlay stereo and connect any additional accessories like the GPS antenna or USB extension cable to the stereo. Some CarPlay stereos allow you to connect wirelessly through Bluetooth.
Mount the CarPlay Stereo
Put the new stereo into the dash opening and make sure it fits. Use the provided screws or mounting brackets to secure the stereo.
Test CarPlay
Reconnect the negative terminal of your car battery and turn on the ignition and the new CarPlay stereo. Connect your iPhone with a USB cable or wirelessly if supported and make sure CarPlay launches on the stereo screen and works. You can use Google Maps for navigation on the CarPlay screen.
Reassemble the Dashboard
Put the trim panels back around the new stereo making sure all panels are secure and aligned.
FAQs
Can I get Apple CarPlay if my car doesn’t have it?
Here’s how to add Apple CarPlay to an older car that didn’t come with it: Check if there’s a firmware update or upgrade kit for your vehicle. You can contact a local dealer or just search the internet. If you search the internet, try a query like “(year, make, model) CarPlay firmware update.”
How much does it cost to add CarPlay to an old car?
Aftermarket head unit: A aftermarket head unit with CarPlay support can cost between $300 to $1000 or more depending on the brand and features. Retrofit kit: Some car manufacturers offer retrofit kits to add CarPlay to older models.
Is it worth it to add CarPlay to a car?
Yes! It’s a big yes! It enhances your driving experience and provides safety and convenience features that we need in this fast paced world.
How do I use Apple CarPlay after installation?
Once installed, you can start using Apple CarPlay by connecting it to your iPhone via USB or Bluetooth. You can stream music and receive audible instructions through your car's sound system. Follow the on-screen prompts to pair your device. You’ll then see the Apple CarPlay interface on your car’s screen where you can access apps, make calls and use Siri for voice commands.
Install BOSS Audio’s Apple CarPlay on Your Old Car
Installing CarPlay in your older car is worth it. With the right tools, accessories and a compatible aftermarket stereo you can have CarPlay in your car. If you’re looking for CarPlay stereos check out BOSS Audio’s CarPlay head units which have many features and fit in your older car.
