Does the 2017 Dodge Caravan have Apple CarPlay?
Apple CarPlay was not a standard feature on the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan. If you want CarPlay in a 2017 Grand Caravan, you would typically need a newer vehicle that supports CarPlay or install an aftermarket head unit.
To understand the question in context: the Grand Caravan lineup carried older infotainment options in 2017, and Apple CarPlay availability varied by model year and system upgrade within the broader Dodge/Chrysler Uconnect family. For a specific 2017 vehicle, the definitive answer depends on the exact infotainment hardware installed at the factory. The below guide helps you verify what a given vehicle offers and what alternatives exist.
How to verify CarPlay capability on a 2017 Grand Caravan
Use these checks to determine whether a particular 2017 Grand Caravan has CarPlay or not, and to understand your options if it doesn’t.
- Inspect the infotainment screen for a CarPlay icon or an Apple CarPlay menu option in the home screen or settings. Presence of CarPlay is a clear indication the feature is available in that vehicle.
- Look up the original window sticker or build sheet (Monroney label or dealer documentation) for mentions of Uconnect version, infotainment package, or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.
- Consult the owner’s manual or Mopar/Uconnect support resources for the specific VIN to confirm which features were included from the factory.
- If you’re shopping used, ask the seller to confirm whether CarPlay is listed in the vehicle’s features and whether the unit has been updated to any newer Uconnect software.
If none of these indicators show CarPlay, the 2017 Grand Caravan in question likely did not come with CarPlay from the factory.
Ways to get CarPlay in a 2017 Grand Caravan
There are practical paths if you want CarPlay in a 2017 Grand Caravan, though they involve upgrades or alternatives to the stock setup.
- Install a compatible aftermarket Apple CarPlay head unit. Many aftermarket radios from brands such as Pioneer, Kenwood, Sony, and Alpine support CarPlay and can be integrated with some effort into older Dodge dashboards.
- Upgrade to a newer Dodge model (such as a later-generation Dodge/Chrysler minivan) that includes CarPlay as standard or as an available option, if you prefer a factory-integrated solution.
Before pursuing either option, consider the total cost, installation complexity, compatibility with existing steering-wheel controls, and how the upgrade affects resale value and warranty coverage.
Summary
In short, the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan did not universally come with Apple CarPlay, and many examples from that year did not offer CarPlay out of the box. If CarPlay is essential, you have two main routes: install an aftermarket CarPlay head unit, or transition to a newer vehicle that includes CarPlay as part of its factory infotainment system. Always verify the specific vehicle’s original equipment before buying, and weigh the cost and compatibility of upgrades carefully.
How to set up CarPlay in a Dodge Caravan?
- Wired Connection: Simply plug your smartphone into the USB port of your Dodge. A prompt will appear on the Uconnect® screen asking you to enable Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto®.
- Wireless Connection: If your vehicle supports wireless connection, ensure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your smartphone.
Does the 2017 Uconnect have Apple CarPlay?
Some 2017 Uconnect systems, specifically the Uconnect 4 with an 8.4-inch or 12-inch touchscreen, have Apple CarPlay, but not all models did. Vehicles like the 2017 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger equipped with this specific Uconnect 4 system came standard with CarPlay and Android Auto. However, other 2017 models, such as certain 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokees, came with an older Uconnect system that did not support these features and cannot be upgraded by the dealer.
Vehicles with Apple CarPlay
- Chrysler 300: The 2017 Chrysler 300 with the Uconnect 4 system (8.4-inch screen).
- Dodge Charger: The 2017 Dodge Charger with the Uconnect 4 system (8.4-inch or 12-inch screen).
- Dodge Challenger: The 2017 Dodge Challenger with the Uconnect 4 system (8.4-inch screen).
- Ram Trucks: Some 2017 Ram models with the Uconnect 8.4-inch system have the capability.
- Other models: Some other models from the Stellantis family were also equipped with the Uconnect 4 system, which would also include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
Vehicles without Apple CarPlay
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: Certain 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokees were equipped with an older version of the Uconnect system that does not have Apple CarPlay, and this cannot be upgraded by a dealership.
- Older Uconnect systems: Any vehicle with a Uconnect system model year 2016 or older will not have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support, even if it is the 8.4-inch screen.
How to check for Apple CarPlay
- Screen size: If you have an 8.4-inch or 12-inch Uconnect 4 system, you likely have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.
- Check the apps: You can find out for sure by checking the apps on your Uconnect system. If you see the Apple CarPlay icon, you are good to go.
- Check with the dealer: If you are still unsure, you can contact a dealership and provide them with your vehicle's VIN. They can tell you for sure if your Uconnect system supports Apple CarPlay.
- Aftermarket upgrades: For vehicles that don't come with Apple CarPlay, some aftermarket solutions may be available to add CarPlay functionality to your Uconnect system.
Does the Dodge Caravan have Apple CarPlay?
【Support Carplay & Android Auto with Voice Control】This double din car stereo for Dodge Grand Caravan 2011-2020 is compatible with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, just connect with your smartphone you can access apps, maps, calls, AUX, FM, speakers and Bluetooth directly from your car's touch screen.
Which 2017 cars have Apple CarPlay?
Many 2017 car models were available with Apple CarPlay, either as standard or an optional feature, including popular models from Ford, Chevrolet, Audi, and Subaru. It became increasingly common, with most manufacturers offering it on a large portion of their 2017 lineups if the vehicle was equipped with the right infotainment system (e.g., Ford's Sync 3).
Examples of 2017 models with Apple CarPlay
This video shows how to use Apple CarPlay on a 2017 Chevy Cruze: 1mTwin Pine FordYouTube · Sep 14, 2017
- Chevrolet: Camaro, Colorado, Corvette, Cruze, Impala, Malibu, Silverado, Sonic, Spark, Tahoe, Trax, and Volt.
- Ford: C-MAX, Edge, Escape, Expedition, F-150, Fiesta, Flex, Focus, Fusion, Mustang, Super Duty, Taurus, and Transit Connect.
- Audi: A7, Allroad, and Q7 (though some models only offered it as an option).
- Subaru: Impreza (beginning with the 2017 model year).
- Kia: Many models, following early adoption in previous years, were equipped with CarPlay.
- BMW: Most models, especially those with newer iDrive systems, offered it as an option.
- Volvo: The XC90 was an early adopter, with support expanding to other models in later years.
- Other manufacturers: Many other brands had compatible models, including Honda, Hyundai, and Mercedes-Benz.
