Does the 2015 Chevy Equinox have Apple CarPlay?
No. Apple CarPlay was not offered in the 2015 Chevy Equinox. CarPlay became available later, with the 2016 model year as part of Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment upgrade on select trims.
Background: CarPlay and the Equinox
Apple CarPlay is a system that lets iPhone users mirror apps and features on a car’s dashboard display. Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment platform began introducing CarPlay in newer model years, aligning with broader industry adoption in the mid-2010s. For the 2015 Equinox, the technology landscape featured the older MyLink setup without native CarPlay or Android Auto support.
Availability by model year
To understand when CarPlay became available in the Equinox lineup, here is a concise timeline by model year.
- 2015 and earlier: No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on the Equinox’s MyLink systems.
- 2016 model year: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were introduced as part of a MyLink update, available on certain trims with 7-inch or larger touchscreens.
- 2017–present: CarPlay is widely available on most Equinox trims, with updates to the MyLink interface and continued support across newer screen sizes.
In short, if you own a 2015 Equinox, built-in Apple CarPlay was not available. Availability begins with the 2016 model year for many trims, and becomes more broadly offered in subsequent years.
What this means for a 2015 Equinox owner
If you’re trying to use CarPlay in a 2015 Equinox, you have two practical paths: a hardware upgrade to a newer year or an aftermarket solution. Each option has cost, complexity, and compatibility considerations.
Options for obtaining CarPlay in a 2015 Equinox
- Aftermarket CarPlay head unit: Replace the factory radio with a CarPlay-enabled system from brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, or Sony. This often provides wireless CarPlay and improved audio/video capabilities.
- Dealer or factory-style upgrade (where available): Some markets offered hardware or software refreshes for older models, but availability varies. Check with a Chevrolet dealer about feasibility and cost for your vehicle.
For many owners, the most straightforward path is an aftermarket head unit, which offers CarPlay compatibility without waiting for a newer vehicle model.
Additional considerations
When planning any upgrade, confirm compatibility with your vehicle’s steering-wheel controls, backup camera integration, OnStar services, and existing wiring. Professional installation is recommended to ensure seamless operation and to avoid voiding warranties or triggering electrical issues.
Summary
The 2015 Chevy Equinox does not natively support Apple CarPlay. CarPlay became available with the 2016 model year as part of the MyLink infotainment upgrade and has since become common on newer Equinox models. Owners of a 2015 model who want CarPlay typically choose between an aftermarket head unit or upgrading to a newer Equinox, with aftermarket options often providing the quickest and most flexible path to CarPlay.
