How do I get my car equipped with UConnect?
You can’t usually retrofit Uconnect into a car that didn’t come with it from the factory. To have Uconnect, you’ll need a vehicle that ships with the system (often in a Uconnect 5 configuration) or you’ll need to upgrade to a newer model that offers it. If retrofitting isn’t feasible, consider CarPlay/Android Auto or an aftermarket head unit for modern connectivity.
Uconnect is Stellantis’ in-car infotainment platform that ties together navigation, communications, apps, and connected services. The exact features depend on the model year, trim, and region, with newer generations like Uconnect 5 delivering wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, over-the-air updates, and more sophisticated interfaces. This guide breaks down what to look for, how to obtain a Uconnect-equipped vehicle, and practical alternatives if your current car can’t be configured with Uconnect.
What Uconnect is and which versions exist
Uconnect is the integrated infotainment system used across Stellantis brands. It has evolved through several generations, with Uconnect 3/4 (older) and Uconnect 5 (newer) offering varying levels of navigation, connectivity, and apps. Version availability depends on the vehicle model, year, and regional market.
Uconnect 5 at a glance
Uconnect 5 is the current generation that appears on many 2021-and-newer models across Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and related brands. It typically includes wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, OTA software updates, a customizable home screen, and enhanced connectivity options. Availability and feature sets vary by trim and region.
Can I retrofit Uconnect to my current car?
In most cases, retrofitting Uconnect to a vehicle that did not originally come with it is not practical or feasible. Uconnect is deeply integrated with the car’s hardware and software, and there are no universal consumer kits to drop into an older car to convert it to Uconnect. Some dealers or specialists might offer limited, model-specific retrofit options for certain vehicles, but these are rare, expensive, and not widely available. For the average owner, the sensible paths are to buy a vehicle that includes Uconnect or to use alternatives like CarPlay/Android Auto or a different aftermarket infotainment solution.
How to get a Uconnect-equipped vehicle
To pursue a Uconnect-equipped vehicle, plan your search with these considerations in mind.
- Decide which Uconnect version and features you want (for example, Uconnect 5, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, built-in navigation, OTA updates, or Uconnect Services).
- Choose a model and trim that offers the desired Uconnect configuration in your region, and confirm which packages are required.
- Use the brand’s official Build & Price tool or configurator to verify availability and options for your chosen model and region.
- Contact a local dealer to confirm current inventory, ordering windows, and whether a factory-installed upgrade is possible for new or upcoming models, or to locate a used vehicle with the desired Uconnect version.
- When shopping for a used car, check the window sticker and verify the VIN to confirm the exact Uconnect version and services included.
Following these steps helps ensure you secure the exact Uconnect configuration you want and understand costs, timing, and regional constraints before purchasing.
Uconnect Services and activation steps
Some Uconnect features are tied to subscriptions or require active activation after purchase, and setup usually happens through the Uconnect app or at the dealership.
- Sign up for a Mopar account and link the vehicle by VIN to enable Uconnect Services in the app.
- Choose a plan for remote features such as remote start, vehicle health alerts, Wi‑Fi hotspot, and navigation updates, if offered in your region.
- Complete activation through the dealership or the app; some features may include a free trial period before a paid subscription starts.
After activation, you can manage connected services via the Uconnect app and the in-vehicle system, including remote features and software updates.
Alternatives if Uconnect isn’t accessible in your current car
If your current vehicle doesn’t support Uconnect, there are practical ways to upgrade your in-car connectivity and usability.
- Use CarPlay or Android Auto through your smartphone, wired or wireless, depending on the head unit and model year.
- Install an aftermarket Android Auto/Apple CarPlay head unit. These replacements offer modern smartphone integration, though they won’t be Uconnect.
- Consider upgrading to a newer or used vehicle that includes Uconnect 5 or your preferred version if the Uconnect experience is a priority.
These alternatives provide modern connectivity and app integration when a factory Uconnect option isn’t available in your current vehicle.
Summary
Uconnect is a factory-installed infotainment platform whose availability and features depend on model year, trim, and region. It is not typically retrofit to cars that didn’t come with it, so the most reliable path is to purchase a vehicle that includes Uconnect or upgrade to a newer model with the system. If that isn’t feasible, CarPlay/Android Auto or an aftermarket head unit can deliver similar smartphone integration, and Uconnect Services may be available via subscription if your car supports the feature. Always verify exact specifications with the dealer before buying to ensure you get the Uconnect experience you want.
