How much does it cost to get CarPlay fitted?
Getting Apple CarPlay installed in your car can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the method you choose and your vehicle’s compatibility. In most cases, a typical setup falls in the $400 to $1,000 range.
CarPlay installation can be either an aftermarket upgrade or a dealer-installed OEM retrofit. The total price depends on the car model, the type of unit, the required wiring and integration, and whether advanced features like wireless CarPlay or steering wheel control support are included. This article outlines the main options, typical price bands, and practical considerations to help you budget.
Options for CarPlay installation
Here are the main pathways people choose when adding CarPlay, each with typical price ranges and what’s included.
- Dealer-installed OEM CarPlay retrofit: a factory-style integration that preserves the car’s original look and functionality, often including steering wheel controls and vehicle audio integration.
- Aftermarket CarPlay head units: independent, non-OEM radios that add CarPlay features and are installed in place of the factory radio.
- Other integrated solutions: some vehicles require a dash kit, CAN-bus adapters, or software updates to enable CarPlay compatibility.
Choosing among these options depends on your vehicle, your preference for a stock look, and how much you’re willing to invest in seamless integration versus a quicker, more affordable upgrade.
Cost ranges by installation option
Understanding typical price bands helps you budget. Prices vary by region and installation complexity, but the bands below reflect common market ranges as of 2024–2025.
- Dealer OEM retrofit: Basic retrofit kit and installation generally $400–$1,200; more complex integrations or premium brands can run $1,200–$2,000 or more.
- Aftermarket CarPlay head units:
- Budget unit (basic wired CarPlay): $100–$250 for the head unit; installation often $60–$150; total $160–$400.
- Mid-range unit (wired or wireless CarPlay, better display or features): $250–$500 for the head unit; installation $60–$150; total $310–$650.
- High-end unit (premium display, wireless CarPlay, advanced audio processing): $500–$900 for the head unit; installation $100–$200; total $600–$1,100.
- Other costs to consider: dash or fascia kits, wiring harnesses, CAN-bus adapters, and potential labor for steering wheel control integration or sound-system tuning, which can add $50–$300 to the bill depending on the car and needs.
Note that wireless CarPlay capability often commands a premium over wired-only options, and some vehicles may require more extensive wiring or adapters to maintain features like factory radio presets and steering wheel controls.
What to ask your installer
To avoid surprises, consider asking these questions before you commit to a method:
- Is CarPlay being added to the existing display, or will a new head unit be installed?
- Will steering wheel controls, voice commands, and vehicle audio settings remain fully functional?
- Is wireless CarPlay supported, and are there any limitations with certain apps or functions?
- What’s included in the warranty for parts and labor, and how long does it cover?
- Are there any ongoing software update or service fees after installation?
Getting clear answers to these questions can help you compare quotes and choose the option that best fits your car and budget.
Summary
For most drivers, a practical CarPlay upgrade sits in the $400–$1,000 range, with OEM dealer retrofits tending toward the higher end and aftermarket head units offering broader price flexibility. The exact total depends on vehicle compatibility, the chosen installation path, and any additional features or parts required. If you value a seamless, factory-like integration, a dealer retrofit may be worth the premium; if you want a faster, more affordable upgrade with a wide choice of head units, an aftermarket installation is often the better bet. Always verify compatibility, warranty terms, and installed features before proceeding.
