How much would it cost to get Apple CarPlay installed?

The cost of getting Apple CarPlay installed can vary depending on several factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, the specific installation requirements, and the labor costs of the service provider. In general, the average cost for Apple CarPlay installation can range from $100 to $400.

Understanding Apple CarPlay Installation

Apple CarPlay is a feature that allows you to connect your iPhone to your vehicle's infotainment system, enabling you to access various apps, make calls, send messages, and more using voice commands or the vehicle's touchscreen. While some newer vehicles come with Apple CarPlay pre-installed, many older models require a separate installation process.

Factors Affecting the Cost

The cost of Apple CarPlay installation can be influenced by the following factors:

• Vehicle compatibility: Some vehicles may require additional hardware or modifications to support Apple CarPlay, which can increase the installation cost.


• Labor costs: The labor costs charged by the service provider, such as a dealership or an independent auto shop, can vary based on their location and expertise.


• Complexity of the installation: The complexity of the installation process, which may involve integrating the system with the vehicle's existing electronics, can also impact the overall cost.


• Aftermarket solutions: If your vehicle is not compatible with Apple CarPlay, you may be able to install an aftermarket solution, such as a touchscreen display or a retrofit kit, which can be more affordable than a dealer-installed option.

It's important to note that the cost of Apple CarPlay installation can also be influenced by any additional features or upgrades you may want to include, such as a larger display or advanced audio systems.

Comparing Installation Options

When considering Apple CarPlay installation, it's a good idea to compare quotes from multiple service providers, including dealerships, independent auto shops, and online retailers offering aftermarket solutions. This can help you find the most cost-effective option that meets your specific needs and budget.

Additionally, some vehicle manufacturers may offer Apple CarPlay installation as an optional feature when purchasing a new car, which could be more cost-effective than retrofitting an older model.

Is it worth adding CarPlay to a car?

Yes, Apple CarPlay is generally considered worth it for its improved safety, convenience, and familiar user experience compared to using a phone directly while driving. It integrates your iPhone with your car's display for hands-free control of calls, messages, music, and navigation, and can make older cars feel more modern. However, the value depends on your needs and budget, with factors like whether you need an aftermarket unit or already have a modern car to consider. 
Benefits of Apple CarPlay
This video explains the benefits of Apple CarPlay: 1mNikias MolinaYouTube · Sep 2, 2021

• Improved safety: CarPlay allows you to use voice commands with Siri and a simplified touchscreen interface for a less distracting driving experience. 
• Familiar interface: The system mimics the iOS interface, making it easy to use right away without learning a new system. 
• Seamless integration: It automatically syncs with your iPhone, providing quick access to your apps and settings. 
• Modern functionality: It brings modern features like advanced navigation, music streaming, and podcast apps to older vehicles, essentially upgrading them. 
• Wireless convenience: Wireless CarPlay offers an even more seamless experience, connecting automatically and eliminating the need for a physical cable. 

Potential drawbacks

• Cost: Aftermarket CarPlay head units can be expensive, sometimes costing over $1000. There are also less expensive options and wireless adapters that add cost. 
• Limited app selection: You cannot use every iPhone app through CarPlay; only those that have been approved by Apple for the system. 
• Siri limitations: While generally helpful, Siri's voice recognition isn't always perfect and may require you to repeat yourself. 
• Battery drain and heat (wireless): Wireless CarPlay can drain your phone's battery faster and may cause it to heat up during long drives. 
• Setup complexity: Installing an aftermarket unit can be complicated and may not be worth the effort for a car you don't drive daily. 
• Wired connection needed: Some older CarPlay versions and systems require a wired connection, which can be inconvenient. 

Is it right for you?

• Yes, if: You want a safer and more convenient way to use your phone's core functions while driving, or if you're upgrading an older car and want to modernize it.
• Consider alternatives if: You have a newer car with a modern infotainment system, or if you're on a tight budget and can manage with a simple phone mount and your phone's built-in features. 
• If buying an aftermarket unit: Consider your needs. If you drive frequently, a higher-quality unit might be worth the extra money for a better daily experience. 

Can I install Apple CarPlay on any car?

You can add CarPlay to any car using either a standalone portable unit, a wireless adapter dongle, or by installing an aftermarket head unit. Portable units and wireless adapters are the easiest, often just plugging into a USB port or the cigarette lighter and connecting wirelessly, while replacing the head unit is a more involved installation process.
 
This video demonstrates how to add CarPlay to any car using a portable screen: 55sEd's GarageYouTube · Aug 18, 2025
Portable units (screen-based)

• What it is: A standalone screen with a mount that connects to your car's existing audio system via an aux cable, Bluetooth, or FM radio. 
• Pros: No need to replace your car's stereo; easy to install; includes a front or rear camera option. 
• Cons: Audio quality can be compromised depending on the connection method; can be bulky. 
• How to set up: Mount the unit, plug it in, connect your phone via Bluetooth, and route the audio through your car's stereo. 

Wireless adapters

• What it is: A small dongle that plugs into your car's existing USB port. 
• Pros: Simple plug-and-play setup; no permanent modifications needed; adds wireless functionality to cars that support wired CarPlay. 
• Cons: Requires a USB port and a car stereo that can support CarPlay (even if just for audio/display); not compatible with cars that lack a screen or a carplay-compatible USB port. 

Aftermarket head units

• What it is: A new stereo system that replaces your car's current one. 
• Pros: Provides a seamless, factory-like integration with CarPlay and other modern features. 
• Cons: Most complex and expensive option; requires professional installation or significant DIY knowledge. 
• How to set up: Remove the old stereo, connect the new wiring harness, and install the new unit into the dash kit. 

This video shows how to set up an aftermarket head unit for CarPlay: 47sHigh Peak AutosYouTube · Aug 19, 2024
Factory integration kits

• What it is: A kit from a company like MVI that allows you to add CarPlay to your car's existing infotainment system. 
• Pros: Adds CarPlay while retaining original vehicle controls and functions. 
• Cons: Can be complex to install; only available for certain vehicles. 

This video demonstrates how to install a factory integration kit for CarPlay: 52sToidYouTube · Jun 18, 2023
How to choose an option

• For the easiest and most budget-friendly option: Choose a portable unit or wireless adapter. 
• For a seamless, integrated experience: Go with an aftermarket head unit or a factory integration kit if available for your car. 

How much do mechanics charge to install CarPlay?

Understanding the Real Cost of CarPlay Installation
These typically run $200-$400 for the unit itself, plus another $100-$200 for professional installation. So you're looking at $300-$600 total for a complete wired CarPlay setup.

How much does it cost to install Apple CarPlay?

Installing Apple CarPlay costs anywhere from $80 for a DIY portable unit to over $1,000 for a professional installation of a premium aftermarket head unit, with typical professional installations ranging from $300 to $1,000 or more depending on hardware and labor complexity. The final cost is determined by the hardware chosen (e.g., basic head unit, wireless unit, or add-on module), labor costs for professional installation, and any additional parts like dash kits or steering wheel control adapters. 
Cost breakdown
Installation method

• Portable plug-in display (DIY): Around $80 to $180, plus no labor costs. This is the most budget-friendly option. 
• Basic wired head unit (professional install): Approximately $300 to $600 ($200-$400 for hardware + $100-$200 for labor). 
• Premium wireless head unit (professional install): Roughly $650 to $1,000+ ($500-$700+ for hardware + $150-$300+ for labor). Costs can increase significantly depending on the complexity of integrating features like steering wheel controls and backup cameras. 
• CarPlay module (for factory screen, professional install): Approximately $450 to $750 ($300-$500 for hardware + $150-$250 for labor). 

Factors that affect cost

• Vehicle complexity: Older cars or those with integrated steering wheel controls and backup cameras may require more complex and expensive installations. 
• Hardware choice: More features, like wireless connectivity or larger screens, increase hardware costs. 
• Labor rates: Installation costs vary based on your location and the installer's hourly rate, which is often around $100-$200 for a standard job. 
• DIY vs. professional: A DIY installation saves on labor but may require purchasing separate wiring harnesses and dash kits, which adds to the hardware cost. Professional installation can range from $100 to $500 depending on the vehicle's complexity. 

How to get an accurate estimate

• Call local installers: Contacting local shops with your vehicle's make, model, and year is the best way to get a precise quote. 
• Be specific about features: When getting a quote, specify if you want wired or wireless CarPlay, integration with steering wheel controls, and if a backup camera is needed.