Can I upgrade my Toyota to have Android Auto or Apple CarPlay?

Yes. Depending on your Toyota's model and year, you may already have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, or you can add them via a dealer upgrade or by installing an aftermarket head unit.

In this article, we break down how to determine whether your vehicle can support CarPlay or Android Auto, what upgrade paths exist, typical costs, and practical considerations before you upgrade your infotainment system.

Does your Toyota already support CarPlay or Android Auto?

Before considering an upgrade, verify whether your current system already supports CarPlay or Android Auto, and whether it uses a wired connection or offers wireless support. Here are the key steps to check:

• Identify your model year and trim level to see if it shipped with CarPlay and/or Android Auto.


• Check the infotainment screen for a CarPlay or Android Auto icon when a compatible phone is connected via USB or wirelessly.


• Look up the official specs for your exact vehicle on Toyota’s website or in the owner’s manual to confirm supported features.


• Inspect whether wireless CarPlay/Android Auto is available on your model—this usually requires specific hardware and a newer generation head unit.

If your vehicle already supports CarPlay or Android Auto, you can use it as-is (wired or wireless, depending on hardware). If not, proceed to the upgrade options below.

Upgrade options: official dealer route

Some Toyota models can be upgraded through official channels, either via a software update or a head-unit replacement performed by a dealership. This path can preserve factory integration and certain vehicle features but may have limitations based on hardware compatibility.

• Software/firmware update to enable CarPlay/Android Auto if the head unit supports it after a refresh.


• Replacement of the infotainment head unit with an up-to-date Toyota-approved unit that includes CarPlay/Android Auto.


• Possible needs for new microphones, adapters, or wiring harnesses to maintain steering-wheel controls and voice commands.


• Estimated cost range, depending on model and labor, typically from a few hundred to well over a thousand dollars.

Dealer-installed upgrades can offer cleaner integration and compatibility with other vehicle systems, but they may be limited by the original hardware and can be more expensive than aftermarket options.

Upgrade options: aftermarket head units

Installing an aftermarket head unit is a popular way to add CarPlay and Android Auto to a wider range of Toyotas. This route often delivers broader feature sets and faster interfaces, but it can affect certain factory features and warranties if not installed carefully.

• Choose a compatible head unit that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired and/or wireless), with dimensions that fit your dashboard.


• Have the unit professionally installed to ensure proper wiring, camera interfaces, steering wheel controls, and factory microphone usage.


• Typical total cost ranges from roughly $400 to $1,000+ for the head unit, plus installation labor, depending on the unit and vehicle.


• Be aware of potential impacts on warranty status and resale value; verify how the installation interacts with your vehicle’s safety features and any connected services.

Aftermarket head units are flexible and can offer features like wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, built-in GPS, and enhanced audio processing, but they require careful selection and installation to maintain a cohesive user experience.

What to consider before upgrading

• Compatibility: Verify that the upgrade (official or aftermarket) supports your specific Toyota model, year, and trim.


• Hardware limitations: Some older head units cannot be updated to CarPlay/Android Auto due to hardware constraints.


• Wiring and features: Ensure steering wheel controls, voice commands, steering column microphone, and rear-camera interfaces remain functional after the upgrade.


• Cost vs. benefit: Weigh the total cost (parts + labor) against the value of enhanced connectivity and potential resale impact.

Careful planning can help you choose between a dealer-supported upgrade and an aftermarket solution, balancing reliability, features, and budget.

Summary

For many Toyotas built in or after 2019, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are already available, sometimes with wireless capability depending on the trim. If your vehicle doesn’t currently support them, you have viable paths: a dealer upgrade (software or head unit) or an aftermarket head unit installation. Each option has its own set of costs, hardware requirements, and compatibility considerations. Check your model’s specifications, consult with a dealer, and assess installation options to determine the best route for adding modern smartphone integration to your Toyota.

How to upgrade Toyota to Apple CarPlay?

How to Connect to Apple CarPlay

1. Confirm your new Toyota supports Apple CarPlay.
2. Plug cord into phone.
3. Connect your iPhone to your Toyota via USB.
4. Apple CarPlay will display on your iPhone so you'll know you're connected.
5. Follow any on screen prompts.
6. You're done! I knew you could do it!

How do I add Android Auto to my Toyota?

On the vehicle's multimedia screen select Settings (gear icon) > 'Bluetooth® & devices' > 'Add another device' > 'Search for devices' Select your phone's name as it appears on list of discovered Bluetooth® devices. Check your Android™ phone for prompts and follow instructions on the phone.

Can I upgrade my Toyota infotainment system?

Yes, you can update a Toyota infotainment system, either wirelessly over-the-air (OTA) on newer vehicles or by downloading a file to a USB drive for older models. Check for OTA updates through your vehicle's "Settings" menu or the Toyota App, or visit the Toyota firmware update website to see if you need to use a USB drive. 
Method 1: Over-the-Air (OTA) updates

• For vehicles with the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia System: Updates are often sent wirelessly. 
• How to check:
  • Go to Settings on your vehicle's multimedia display. 
  • Select Software update. 
  • Check the Toyota App for a "Vehicle software update available" card. 
  • If an update is available, you may be able to install it directly from the screen. 

Method 2: USB update

• For vehicles that don't support OTA updates: You may need to download the update to a USB flash drive. 
• How to check and download:
  • Visit the Toyota firmware update website. 
  • Enter your vehicle information to see if there are any available updates. 
  • If there is an update, download the file to a compatible USB drive. 
  • Follow the instructions on the website to prepare the USB drive and install the software. 

How to install a USB update

1. Download the update file from the Toyota website onto a USB drive. 
2. Start your vehicle with the USB drive plugged into the appropriate port. 
3. Navigate to the software update menu within the infotainment system's settings. 
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to initiate and complete the update. 
5. The system may indicate it's done, but it's best to turn the vehicle off and then on again to finalize the installation. 

Important notes

• Navigation updates: Navigation map updates may need to be handled differently. See your dealer for details. 
• Patience: Updates can take some time to install. Do not turn off the vehicle or remove the USB drive during the process. 
• Troubleshooting: If your update won't start, try restarting the infotainment system by holding the power button for 10 seconds, then re-inserting the USB drive. 

Can I upgrade my Toyota to have Android Auto?

Can I Upgrade My Toyota to Have Android Auto or Apple CarPlay? You can make your newer Toyota compatible with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. If you already have an infotainment system, upgrading may be as simple as installing the latest version of the infotainment system software.