Can you add Apple CarPlay to a 2014 Chevy Equinox?

Not in its stock form. The 2014 Equinox did not support Apple CarPlay, and there was no official GM retrofit for that year. If you want CarPlay, you’ll typically need to install an aftermarket CarPlay-enabled head unit or upgrade to a newer model year that ships with CarPlay.

What this means for the 2014 Equinox

The vehicle’s factory infotainment hardware predates CarPlay. Apple CarPlay requires compatible hardware and software, which the 2014 Equinox lacked. If you want CarPlay, you’ll need to pursue one of the following paths.

Below is a quick guide to the practical options you can pursue.

• Install an aftermarket CarPlay-enabled head unit. This is the most common route and works with most 2014 Equinox dashboards, provided you use a proper dash kit and wiring harness. Depending on the unit, you can get wired CarPlay or, in some models, wireless CarPlay. Steering-wheel controls can often be retained with the right interface.


• Upgrade to a later model-year Equinox that includes CarPlay. Models around 2017 and newer offered Apple CarPlay (and often Android Auto) via Chevrolet MyLink. This path means moving to a newer vehicle rather than a simple retrofit.


• Check with a dealer or GM-certified upgrade programs. Availability varies by region and model year; some dealers offer MyLink updates or retrofit options, but not all will enable CarPlay on a 2014 model.

Conclusion: The most practical path for many owners is an aftermarket head unit, or upgrading to a newer Equinox that already supports CarPlay, rather than trying to retrofit the 2014 model.

Key considerations before upgrading

Before deciding on a path, consider cost, installation complexity, dash fit, and how you want CarPlay to operate (wired vs wireless), as well as how you’ll retain other vehicle features like steering-wheel controls and backup camera integration.

• Cost and value: Aftermarket head units range roughly from a few hundred dollars for basic models to over a thousand for premium, feature-rich units, plus installation fees.


• Dash fit and compatibility: The 2014 Equinox uses a specific dash size and connector layout; you’ll need a compatible dash kit and a proper wiring harness to preserve factory aesthetics and functions.


• Vehicle integration: Steering-wheel controls, microphone placement for calls, backup camera integration, OnStar, and antenna connections should be considered and may require adapters.


• Warranty and reliability: Aftermarket installs can affect warranty coverage; verify any impact with the dealer and consider reputable shops for fault-free integration.

Final note: For many drivers, the most straightforward option is an aftermarket CarPlay head unit with proper installation, while others may prefer upgrading to a newer Equinox to enjoy CarPlay as a built-in feature.

How Apple CarPlay works with the Equinox ecosystem

Wired vs wireless CarPlay

CarPlay can operate via a USB cable or, on compatible head units, wirelessly over Wi-Fi/Bluetooth. In the 2014 Equinox context, you would typically achieve CarPlay through an aftermarket head unit that supports one of these connection methods. The stock system itself does not provide CarPlay without replacement.

What you gain

CarPlay offers a simplified iPhone interface on the car display, with access to Maps, Messages, Phone, Music, and compatible apps, controlled by Siri or the head unit’s touchscreen, depending on the unit and setup.

Summary

The 2014 Chevy Equinox does not natively support Apple CarPlay, and there is no official GM retrofit for that year. To get CarPlay, most owners opt to install a CarPlay-enabled aftermarket head unit or upgrade to a newer Equinox that ships with CarPlay. Evaluate cost, dash compatibility, and how you’ll use CarPlay when choosing between retrofitting and purchasing a newer vehicle.

Can you add Apple CarPlay to a 2014 Chevy MyLink?

MVI is proud to offer the Chevy Mylink to factory Chevrolet Apple CarPlay and Android Auto upgrade for your 2014 – 2016 Chevy car, truck, or SUV. Using only genuine GM parts ensures that the reliability and functionality of this upgrade is OEM quality.

How do I add Apple CarPlay to my car that doesn't have it?

You can add CarPlay to any car using either a standalone portable unit, a wireless adapter dongle, or by installing an aftermarket head unit. Portable units and wireless adapters are the easiest, often just plugging into a USB port or the cigarette lighter and connecting wirelessly, while replacing the head unit is a more involved installation process.
 
This video demonstrates how to add CarPlay to any car using a portable screen: 55sEd's GarageYouTube · Aug 18, 2025
Portable units (screen-based)

• What it is: A standalone screen with a mount that connects to your car's existing audio system via an aux cable, Bluetooth, or FM radio. 
• Pros: No need to replace your car's stereo; easy to install; includes a front or rear camera option. 
• Cons: Audio quality can be compromised depending on the connection method; can be bulky. 
• How to set up: Mount the unit, plug it in, connect your phone via Bluetooth, and route the audio through your car's stereo. 

Wireless adapters

• What it is: A small dongle that plugs into your car's existing USB port. 
• Pros: Simple plug-and-play setup; no permanent modifications needed; adds wireless functionality to cars that support wired CarPlay. 
• Cons: Requires a USB port and a car stereo that can support CarPlay (even if just for audio/display); not compatible with cars that lack a screen or a carplay-compatible USB port. 

Aftermarket head units

• What it is: A new stereo system that replaces your car's current one. 
• Pros: Provides a seamless, factory-like integration with CarPlay and other modern features. 
• Cons: Most complex and expensive option; requires professional installation or significant DIY knowledge. 
• How to set up: Remove the old stereo, connect the new wiring harness, and install the new unit into the dash kit. 

This video shows how to set up an aftermarket head unit for CarPlay: 47sHigh Peak AutosYouTube · Aug 19, 2024
Factory integration kits

• What it is: A kit from a company like MVI that allows you to add CarPlay to your car's existing infotainment system. 
• Pros: Adds CarPlay while retaining original vehicle controls and functions. 
• Cons: Can be complex to install; only available for certain vehicles. 

This video demonstrates how to install a factory integration kit for CarPlay: 52sToidYouTube · Jun 18, 2023
How to choose an option

• For the easiest and most budget-friendly option: Choose a portable unit or wireless adapter. 
• For a seamless, integrated experience: Go with an aftermarket head unit or a factory integration kit if available for your car. 

How do I add CarPlay to my Chevy Equinox?

To get Apple CarPlay on a Chevy Equinox, connect your iPhone to the vehicle's USB port with a cable for wired CarPlay, or use Bluetooth for wireless CarPlay on models that support it. If using a cable, your phone may automatically launch CarPlay; if not, tap the CarPlay icon on the infotainment screen. For wireless CarPlay, long-press the voice command button on your steering wheel, go to your iPhone's settings, and select the car from the "Available Cars" list. 
For wired Apple CarPlay

1. Plug your iPhone into the designated USB port in your Equinox using your Lightning cable. The port is often marked with a smartphone or CarPlay icon. 
2. Unlock your iPhone. 
3. CarPlay may start automatically. If it doesn't, tap the APPLE CARPLAY or PROJECTION icon on your vehicle's home screen. 
4. The first time you connect, you may need to accept a pop-up on your phone asking to use CarPlay while your phone is locked. 

This video demonstrates how to connect your iPhone to Apple CarPlay using a USB cable: 47sGregg Young Chevrolet, Inc.YouTube · Jul 26, 2021
For wireless Apple CarPlay

1. Ensure your vehicle is in park and that Bluetooth is turned on in both your car's infotainment system and your iPhone. 
2. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay, then tap Available Cars and select your vehicle. 
3. Alternatively, press and hold the voice command button on your steering wheel. On your iPhone's screen, tap Settings > Wi-Fi and ensure Wi-Fi is on. 
4. Tap the gray Apple CarPlay icon on your car's home screen and then Connect to phone. 
5. Your phone and the car will pair. You may need to accept terms and conditions and confirm the pairing code on both screens. 

You can watch this video for a step-by-step guide on setting up wireless Apple CarPlay: 51sTim Lally ChevroletYouTube · Jan 12, 2024
Important notes

• Compatibility: Apple CarPlay is available on 2016 and newer Chevy models, but wireless CarPlay is only on select models. Check your owner's manual or with a dealer for confirmation. 
• Equinox EV: Some recent models, like the Equinox EV, may not support Apple CarPlay at all and rely on the vehicle's native infotainment system. 
• Troubleshooting: If the connection fails, make sure your iPhone's iOS is up to date and that the vehicle's radio is in Bluetooth or wireless mode. 
• Exit CarPlay: To return to your vehicle's home screen, press the physical HOME button on the infotainment system. 

Does a 2014 Chevy Equinox support Apple CarPlay?

In this demo video we show CarPlay and Android Auto in GMC Chevrolet Equinox 2014 factory stereo, using VLine VL2 infotainment system. VLine VL2 supports both wireless and wired CarPlay, and you can add it to your factory stereo without replacing your headunit. Or any music app available on Google Play store.