Does the 2018 Acura Ilx have Apple CarPlay?
Yes. Apple CarPlay is available on the 2018 Acura ILX when the car is equipped with the Technology Package; the base ILX trim does not include CarPlay.
For the 2018 model year, Acura offered CarPlay as part of its Display Audio system, which is included with the Technology Package and other higher-trim configurations. CarPlay lets iPhone users mirror apps and use Siri through the ILX’s touchscreen or voice controls. If you’re shopping used or reviewing a specific vehicle, it’s important to verify that the car was equipped with the Technology Package or an equivalent option that adds CarPlay, since it is not a standard feature on the entry-level ILX.
What CarPlay looks like in the 2018 ILX
When equipped, the ILX’s infotainment system provides a dedicated CarPlay interface on the 8-inch Display Audio screen (or the equivalent upgraded display in some configurations). Users can access supported apps, navigation, messaging, and music, all controlled via the touchscreen or Siri voice commands. The setup is designed to integrate smoothly with iPhones running iOS, typically via a USB connection.
How to verify CarPlay on a 2018 ILX
To confirm CarPlay is present and to enable it, follow these steps:
- Check the vehicle’s window sticker or salesperson’s listing to confirm it includes the Technology Package (which adds CarPlay and Android Auto).
- Power on the car and connect your iPhone with a USB cable to the ILX’s USB port designated for CarPlay.
- On the ILX touchscreen, look for the Apple CarPlay icon or select Apple CarPlay from the home screen.
- If prompted, allow CarPlay on your iPhone via Settings > General > CarPlay and ensure CarPlay is allowed while the iPhone is locked.
These steps apply to most 2018 ILX configurations that include CarPlay and provide a straightforward way to start using it right away.
CarPlay not available or not working? Troubleshooting steps
If CarPlay isn’t appearing or functioning as expected, try these steps:
- Ensure the ILX is equipped with the Technology Package that includes CarPlay; verify through the dealer’s paperwork or the vehicle’s feature list.
- Use a high-quality Apple-certified Lightning cable and try a different USB port if available.
- On the iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay, select your car, and forget the car if necessary, then reconnect.
- Restart both the iPhone and the ILX infotainment system, and make sure both software systems are up to date (iOS on the iPhone, and infotainment firmware if an update is available).
If issues persist after these steps, contacting an Acura dealer for a software check or potential updates is advisable, as sometimes a firmware update or a dealership-assisted reset is required.
Summary
In summary, the 2018 Acura ILX can offer Apple CarPlay, provided the car is equipped with the Technology Package (the base model does not include CarPlay). For buyers and owners, confirming the presence of this option before purchase or during a vehicle follow-up is essential. When available, CarPlay delivers iPhone integration through the ILX’s Display Audio system, offering a familiar and convenient way to access apps, navigation, and hands-free communication while driving.
How to add CarPlay to Acura ILX?
How to Set Up CarPlay® in Your Acura Vehicle
- Press and hold the voice-command button on the steering wheel.
- With the radio in Bluetooth® or wireless mode, go to Settings > General > CarPlay on your phone.
- Tap “Available Cars” to select your vehicle.
What year did the Acura ILX get Apple CarPlay?
2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 Acura ILX.
Does the 2018 Acura ILX have CarPlay?
New Acura Vehicles with Apple CarPlay
Acura TLX: 2018 - Current. Acura ILX: 2019 - Current. Acura RDX: 2019 - Current. Acura Integra: 2023.
Do 2018 cars have Apple CarPlay?
Yes, many 2018 cars have Apple CarPlay, as it became widely available from major manufacturers around that time, either as standard or optional equipment. Some brands offered it on most of their 2018 models, while others had it on specific trims or vehicles within their lineup.
This video explains how to set up Apple CarPlay on a 2018 Ford Mustang: 34sCars With SteveYouTube · Jun 11, 2022
- Widely available: Many manufacturers like Audi, BMW, Ford, Honda, Kia, and Volkswagen included CarPlay on most or all of their 2018 models.
- Model-specific: Some brands only offered it on certain vehicles or trim levels. For example, some 2018 GM trucks had it except for the base trim, and some early models of other brands might have only had it on higher trims.
- Optional or dealer-installed: In some cases, like with certain 2018 Toyota models, CarPlay could be installed via a software upgrade at the dealership.
- Check before buying: Because availability varied by trim, it's essential to check the specific vehicle's features. Your owner's manual or the manufacturer's website can provide details.
This video demonstrates how to set up Apple CarPlay in a 2018 Honda CRV: 59sMarin AcuraYouTube · Jul 16, 2020
