How much does Toyota charge to add CarPlay?
Most new Toyota models include Apple CarPlay (and Android Auto) at no extra charge, so you typically do not pay to add CarPlay. Availability can vary by model year, trim level, and region, with a few older or regional variants needing hardware upgrades or different packages.
Current CarPlay availability on modern Toyota models
As of 2024–25, Toyota typically includes CarPlay as part of the standard infotainment setup on most new vehicles. The following points summarize common practices across current Toyota lineups.
- Apple CarPlay is standard on most new Toyota models released in recent years; you can use it via USB and, on many models, wirelessly.
- Android Auto is typically included alongside CarPlay on these models, providing similar smartphone integration for Android users.
- Wireless CarPlay is available on select trims and models, depending on the infotainment system and options chosen.
- There is usually no separate ongoing CarPlay subscription; you pay for the vehicle or trim, not for CarPlay itself.
- Some very basic/entry trims may still rely on a different baseline infotainment setup, but CarPlay remains available on most recent trims with the appropriate package.
In short, for most buyers purchasing a new Toyota today, adding CarPlay does not carry an extra charge beyond the chosen vehicle and trim. Always confirm with the dealer for your exact model and region.
Older models and regional variations
For older Toyotas or for markets outside the United States, CarPlay availability and pricing can differ. Here are common scenarios you might encounter.
- Pre-2019 Toyota models may not support CarPlay at all unless a hardware head-unit upgrade is installed.
- In some regions, CarPlay is offered only with certain Navigation or Premium Audio packages, rather than as a free feature on the base infotainment setup.
- Hardware or retrofit costs for adding CarPlay to an eligible older model vary widely and may require professional installation.
Prices for retrofits or upgrades can range from a few hundred to well over a thousand dollars, depending on the model, the required hardware, and labor fees. Always get a formal quote from a dealer or trusted installer.
How to verify CarPlay pricing for your vehicle
To know whether CarPlay is included or what it would cost for your specific Toyota, use these steps.
- Check Toyota's official model/trim pages or your vehicle’s owner's manual to see if CarPlay is listed as standard or optional for your year and trim.
- Ask your local Toyota dealer to confirm whether CarPlay is included, and whether any Navigation or Premium Audio package is required for CarPlay on your exact configuration.
- If shopping used, verify CarPlay support before purchase and whether a software update or head-unit replacement would be needed.
- If you upgrade an older model, compare the total cost of the aftermarket head unit and installation with any dealer retrofit options.
With clarity on your model’s capabilities, you can decide the most cost-effective path to CarPlay for your Toyota.
Summary
For most buyers of new Toyotas, CarPlay is included at no extra charge, making it a standard feature rather than a paid add-on. Availability can vary by model year, trim, and region, and older models may require hardware upgrades. Always confirm with the dealer for your exact vehicle configuration and consider your upgrade options if you’re shopping used or own an older model.
