Can you add Apple CarPlay to Lexus?

Yes — in most cases you can add Apple CarPlay to a Lexus, especially newer models. The exact path depends on your vehicle’s year, trim, and the infotainment hardware it uses. There are official dealer upgrade options for compatible cars, as well as aftermarket head-unit solutions for older models.

Overview: Apple CarPlay in Lexus today

CarPlay availability across the Lexus lineup varies by model year and the underlying infotainment system. Lexus began rolling out CarPlay in newer vehicles in the 2020s, and many current models offer CarPlay (wired and, in several trims, wireless). For older Lexuses, compatibility is more limited and may require hardware or software upgrades to enable CarPlay.

• Factory CarPlay in newer models: Many 2020+ Lexus models come with CarPlay as standard or optional, often with wireless capability on higher trims.


• Dealer-enabled upgrades for eligible hardware: If your vehicle’s system supports it, a Lexus dealership can sometimes enable CarPlay via software updates or a hardware module.


• Older or non-supporting models: Some pre-2020 Lexuses do not natively support CarPlay, making a retrofit more challenging or not officially supported.


• Aftermarket solutions: If the factory route isn’t available, a professionally installed CarPlay-enabled aftermarket head unit is an option, though it may affect factory features and warranties.

In short, there are viable paths to CarPlay for many Lexus owners, but the best option depends on your exact model and year. Always verify with a dealer or a trusted installer before proceeding.

How to check if your Lexus supports CarPlay

To determine whether your specific Lexus can use CarPlay and which path to take, start with a quick check of your vehicle’s capabilities and software.

• Look for Apple CarPlay in the infotainment system: check Settings or the home screen for an Apple CarPlay option.


• Inspect the infotainment software version: newer versions are more likely to include CarPlay or enable a retrofit.


• Consult the owner’s manual or Lexus’s official site for your exact model/year to confirm CarPlay availability.


• If in doubt, ask a Lexus dealer about official retrofit options or approved third-party installations.

Once you confirm CarPlay is present or possible to enable, you can decide between a dealer upgrade or an aftermarket solution, with installation considerations and potential warranty implications in mind.

Getting CarPlay if your Lexus doesn’t currently support it

If your current Lexuse doesn’t support CarPlay, you have a few paths to consider, each with its own pros and cons.

• Official dealer retrofit or upgrade: If your vehicle’s hardware supports CarPlay, a Lexus dealer can install the necessary software updates or hardware modules to enable CarPlay, sometimes with a newer display or integration tweaks.


• Aftermarket CarPlay head unit: A third-party, CarPlay-compatible head unit can be installed to replace the factory unit. This option often requires professional installation to preserve steering-wheel controls, climate controls, and backup camera integration.


• Considerations before choosing: Evaluate cost, installation time, warranty implications, potential impact on resale value, and compatibility with important features such as navigation and voice control.

Whether you go with a dealer retrofit or an aftermarket head unit, plan for professional installation to ensure seamless integration with the Lexus’ electronics and safety systems.

Costs and practical considerations

Costs and feasibility vary based on the chosen path. Factory or dealer upgrades tend to be more expensive but offer better integration and warranty protection, while aftermarket head units can be more budget-friendly but may require more involved installation and carry different warranty considerations.

• Dealer retrofit: Often the most seamless option, but price can be premium and availability depends on your model and region.


• Aftermarket head unit: Price ranges for the unit itself vary widely; installation adds labor costs and may require dash kits, wiring adapters, and integration with steering controls.


• Potential trade-offs: Aftermarket installs may affect certain factory features, alarms, or warranties; verify what is covered and what isn’t with the installer and your dealer.

For most buyers, the decision comes down to cost, how seamless the integration will be, and how much the owner values factory-level support and warranty coverage.

Summary

Apple CarPlay is widely available in newer Lexus models and increasingly accessible through dealer upgrades or official retrofit programs. For older Lexus vehicles, CarPlay may require an aftermarket head unit or in some cases may not be officially supported. The best approach is to check your exact model and year with a Lexus dealer, weigh the costs and installation implications, and choose the option that offers the most reliable integration with your driving and safety features.

Can I add Apple CarPlay to my 2016 Lexus?

Lexus did not offer Apple Carplay as a factory option between 2016 and 2019. Our complete screen replacement kit adds Apple Carplay and Android Auto functionality to your Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450h, Lexus RX350L, RX350 F Sport, RX450hL, or RX450 F-Sport.

Can you add Apple CarPlay to a car that doesn't have it?

Yes, you can add Apple CarPlay to a car that doesn't have it by installing an aftermarket head unit, using a factory integration kit that connects to your existing screen, or by using a standalone CarPlay screen that mounts to your dashboard. The best method depends on your budget and desire to integrate with your car's original system. 
You can watch this video to learn how to add Apple CarPlay to any car using a standalone screen: 1mDIY-timeYouTube · Dec 27, 2024
Aftermarket head unit

• What it is: You replace your car's entire stereo system with a new one that has CarPlay built-in. 
• Pros: Offers a complete, integrated experience and often includes other features like GPS and better audio. 
• Cons: This is often the most expensive option and requires professional installation, as it involves removing the factory stereo and dashboard panels. 

Factory integration kit

• What it is: A device that connects to your car's existing factory screen and adds CarPlay functionality, often without replacing the head unit. 
• Pros: Allows you to keep your factory controls and look, and can be a more seamless integration than a standalone screen. 
• Cons: Compatibility varies significantly between car makes and models, so you'll need to verify your car is compatible. 

This video explains how to add Apple CarPlay to any car using a factory integration system: 59sToidYouTube · Jun 18, 2023
Standalone CarPlay screen

• What it is: A portable, screen-based device that you mount on your dashboard or windshield. It connects to your phone wirelessly or via an aux/FM connection and uses your car's speakers for sound. 
• Pros: The most cost-effective and easiest-to-install option, with no permanent modifications needed. You can easily move it between vehicles. 
• Cons: It can look less integrated than other options, and audio quality may be worse unless you use the auxiliary input, if your car has one. 

You can watch this video to see how to add Wireless CarPlay to any car with a standalone screen: 41sAll Things OverlandingYouTube · May 6, 2025

How much does it cost to add CarPlay to Lexus?

There is no additional cost for Apple CarPlay® as it is a standard feature when purchasing an eligible Lexus vehicle.

Can I upgrade my Lexus to Apple CarPlay?

You will need to reserve a booking with your local authorised Lexus dealership for this upgrade. It will take approximately an hour. This upgrade will include an audio software update (may also require navigation map update), and in some cases hardware update.