Can you add Apple play to existing car?

Yes. In many cases you can add Apple CarPlay to an existing car either by upgrading the head unit or using an aftermarket adapter, though options depend on your vehicle and budget.

Apple CarPlay lets you use iPhone features through your car's display, including Maps, messages, calls, and apps. If your car lacks CarPlay, you can retrofit with an aftermarket head unit, or sometimes with a dealer-installed kit. The choice depends on your car's age, the features you want, and how much you're willing to spend.

Paths to CarPlay: built-in vs retrofit

The most common routes to add CarPlay are to replace the factory stereo with a CarPlay-enabled head unit, or to use an adapter kit that adds CarPlay compatibility to an existing system where possible. Some brands also offer dealer-installed retrofit options.

• Option 1: Replace the car’s stereo with an aftermarket CarPlay-enabled head unit. This is the most widely supported route and can provide both wired CarPlay (via USB) and wireless CarPlay on many models.


• Option 2: Use an aftermarket CarPlay adapter designed to work with your existing head unit. Compatibility varies by car and unit, and you may need additional display or controls to access CarPlay.


• Option 3: Check for a dealer-installed or official retrofit option from the carmaker. Some brands offer official CarPlay retrofit kits for certain older models, installed at a dealership.


• Option 4: If you are shopping for a used car, verify whether the vehicle already has CarPlay or can be upgraded cheaply with the manufacturer’s own kits.

Choosing among these options depends on your dashboard layout, desired features, and budget. A replacement head unit generally offers the broadest compatibility and control, while adapters can be cheaper but more limited in functionality.

Key considerations before you retrofit

Before committing to a retrofit, consider these factors to ensure you get a smooth CarPlay experience and a good value for your car.

• Compatibility: Confirm that the chosen solution supports your iPhone and CarPlay version, and that it works with your car’s steering wheel controls and display (and that it supports wireless CarPlay if desired).


• Connectivity: Decide between wired CarPlay (USB) and wireless CarPlay (requires a compatible head unit or adapter to connect via Bluetooth/Wi‑Fi).


• Installation: Weigh DIY installation vs professional installation. Aftermarket head units may require dash fitting, wiring, and sometimes trimming. Professional installation can add $100–$300+ to the cost.


• Warranty and compatibility: Check if retrofitting affects your car’s warranty, especially if installed by a third party or dealer.


• Future-proofing: Look for head units with regular updates, compatibility with iOS updates, and seamless access to Siri, Maps, Messages, and third-party apps.

By assessing compatibility, installation complexity, and cost, you can choose the option that best fits your vehicle and needs.

Costs and installation options

Prices vary widely depending on the route you choose. The following ranges are common ballparks as of 2025, but actual prices depend on the brand, model, and installer.

• Aftermarket CarPlay head unit: typically $150–$1,000 for the unit itself. Higher-end models with better displays and wireless CarPlay tend to cost $400–$800, with installation often another $100–$300.


• Dealer-installed CarPlay retrofit: often $800–$2,000, depending on the brand and model, plus potential installation fees.


• CarPlay adapters: generally $50–$150, depending on features and whether they are wireless adapters.


• DIY installation: if you’re comfortable with car electronics, you can save on labor but may need specialized tools and time; plan for risk of improper installation if you’re inexperienced.

Costs can vary by region and the complexity of your dashboard. It’s wise to get quotes from multiple reputable shops and verify compatibility before purchase.

Summary

Most cars can gain CarPlay through a straightforward retrofit path, usually by replacing the head unit with a CarPlay-enabled model. If you’re on a tighter budget, an adapter or a dealer retrofit option may be viable, but ensure compatibility with your car’s controls and display. Wireless CarPlay is increasingly common, but wired connections remain reliable and widely supported. In all cases, verify iPhone compatibility and consider installation quality to maintain safety and usability on the road.

How much does it cost to add Apple Play to your car?

Installing Apple CarPlay costs anywhere from $80 for a DIY portable unit to over $1,000 for a professional installation of a premium aftermarket head unit, with typical professional installations ranging from $300 to $1,000 or more depending on hardware and labor complexity. The final cost is determined by the hardware chosen (e.g., basic head unit, wireless unit, or add-on module), labor costs for professional installation, and any additional parts like dash kits or steering wheel control adapters. 
Cost breakdown
Installation method

• Portable plug-in display (DIY): Around $80 to $180, plus no labor costs. This is the most budget-friendly option. 
• Basic wired head unit (professional install): Approximately $300 to $600 ($200-$400 for hardware + $100-$200 for labor). 
• Premium wireless head unit (professional install): Roughly $650 to $1,000+ ($500-$700+ for hardware + $150-$300+ for labor). Costs can increase significantly depending on the complexity of integrating features like steering wheel controls and backup cameras. 
• CarPlay module (for factory screen, professional install): Approximately $450 to $750 ($300-$500 for hardware + $150-$250 for labor). 

Factors that affect cost

• Vehicle complexity: Older cars or those with integrated steering wheel controls and backup cameras may require more complex and expensive installations. 
• Hardware choice: More features, like wireless connectivity or larger screens, increase hardware costs. 
• Labor rates: Installation costs vary based on your location and the installer's hourly rate, which is often around $100-$200 for a standard job. 
• DIY vs. professional: A DIY installation saves on labor but may require purchasing separate wiring harnesses and dash kits, which adds to the hardware cost. Professional installation can range from $100 to $500 depending on the vehicle's complexity. 

How to get an accurate estimate

• Call local installers: Contacting local shops with your vehicle's make, model, and year is the best way to get a precise quote. 
• Be specific about features: When getting a quote, specify if you want wired or wireless CarPlay, integration with steering wheel controls, and if a backup camera is needed. 

How do I make my car available for CarPlay?

You can get Apple CarPlay in your car either by connecting your iPhone to a compatible car via a USB cable or wirelessly through Bluetooth, or by installing an aftermarket system if your car isn't compatible. To connect, ensure your car is parked safely and your iPhone is unlocked. 
Wired connection

1. Connect your iPhone to the car's USB data port with a USB-A or USB-C cable, depending on your car and phone model.
2. If prompted, unlock your iPhone and accept the connection request on both your phone and the car's infotainment screen.
3. If CarPlay doesn't start automatically, touch the Apple CarPlay icon on your car's display. 

This video demonstrates how to connect to Apple CarPlay using a USB cable: 42sHondaYouTube · Jun 16, 2022
Wireless connection

1. Pair your phone with the car's infotainment system via Bluetooth. On your iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth and select your car's name from the list.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts on both your phone and the car's display to complete the pairing.
3. When a notification appears on your iPhone asking to use wireless CarPlay, accept it. 

This video demonstrates how to connect to Apple CarPlay wirelessly: 0:59Mcgurr EntertainmentYouTube · May 9, 2023
Aftermarket installation

1. If your car isn't factory-equipped, you can install an aftermarket stereo system with CarPlay support. 
2. Alternatively, you can purchase a portable aftermarket CarPlay system, which typically connects to your car's 12V/cigarette lighter outlet and mounts on the dashboard. 
3. These portable units often create their own Wi-Fi network for your phone to connect to. 

This video demonstrates how to install a portable aftermarket CarPlay system: 57sStephen RoblesYouTube · May 3, 2023

Can you add CarPlay to an existing car?

Yes, you can add CarPlay to your car, with options ranging from replacing the head unit to using plug-and-play adapters or standalone screen devices. The best method depends on your car's existing system, budget, and desired level of integration, with aftermarket head units and adapters being the most common solutions. 
This video demonstrates how to add CarPlay to any car using a standalone screen device: 1mDIY-timeYouTube · Dec 27, 2024
Aftermarket head unit

• This involves replacing your car's existing stereo with a new one that has Apple CarPlay built-in. 
• Pros: Offers the most seamless and integrated experience, often with a larger touchscreen and advanced features. 
• Cons: Can be expensive, ranging from $300 to over $1,000, and may require professional installation. You must ensure the new unit fits your dashboard's opening (e.g., single-DIN or double-DIN). 

You can watch this video to see how to install a wireless CarPlay adapter to a car with a built-in head unit: 41sAll Things OverlandingYouTube · May 6, 2025
Plug-and-play wireless adapters

• These are small devices that plug into your car's existing USB port and connect to your iPhone wirelessly. 
• Pros: Simple to install and doesn't require replacing the head unit. It works with existing infotainment systems that have wired CarPlay capability. 
• Cons: You must have a car with a factory-installed wired CarPlay system for an adapter to work. 

Standalone CarPlay screens

• These are portable, screen-based devices that mount to your dashboard and connect wirelessly via Bluetooth or through an aux cable. 
• Pros: A cost-effective way to add CarPlay to virtually any car, including older models without a screen. They are easy to install and can be moved between vehicles. 
• Cons: Sound quality can vary depending on the method used to connect to your car's speakers (e.g., local speaker, FM transmitter, or aux cable). The visual integration is not as clean as a built-in system. 

This video shows a review of a standalone CarPlay screen that can be added to any car: 48sNick O'LearyYouTube · Jan 26, 2024
Factory integration kits

• Some companies specialize in kits that add CarPlay to a car's existing infotainment system without needing a new head unit. 
• Pros: Offers an "OEM-like" experience by integrating with existing factory controls. 
• Cons: Availability can be limited depending on your car's make and model. 

Can you get Apple CarPlay installed on a car?

How can I get Apple CarPlay in my car? Many new cars offer head units with Apple CarPlay as an optional extra, so you can simply plug in your iPhone and start using it. However, if you have an older head unit or a system that isn't compatible with CarPlay, you may want to upgrade.