If you’ve ever driven or ridden in a car with Apple CarPlay, you know just how good this modern infotainment technology is. The ability to seamlessly pair and use your phone directly from your vehicle’s MMI isn’t just convenient, it’s also safer. From maps and text messages to entertainment and phone calls, it’s no surprise CarPlay is becoming standard in new vehicles.
CarPlay is relatively new. The first production vehicle with CarPlay integrated from the factory was in the 2014 Kia Soul, but more manufacturers quickly followed suit. Nowadays, CarPlay is available in everything from Hondas and Chevrolets to Mercedes and Porsches.
Unfortunately, being such a new technology means a lot of vehicles on the road do not have CarPlay. Aftermarket installations have become a sought-after upgrade for both older daily drivers as well as project cars and classic retrofits/restomods. In this article, we are going to go over the basics of aftermarket CarPlay installations and give you an idea of what you can expect to pay.
What is Apple CarPlay?
Essentially, Apple CarPlay is a way for an iOS device (in most cases, an iPhone) to be controlled from a vehicle’s infotainment system.
CarPlay lets you use apps like:
- Music
- Apple Maps
- Messages
Like its competitor Android Auto, CarPlay is becoming more and more common in factory infotainment systems for new vehicles.
How is CarPlay Added to an Older Vehicle?
Installing CarPlay in a vehicle that did not come with it from the factory typically involves replacing the head unit (what you might just call the stereo) with one that has CarPlay. These installations can range from fairly basic screens that are clearly aftermarket, all the way up to fully integrated, OEM-style systems that look like they were installed before the car left the assembly line.
What Dictates How Much Aftermarket CarPlay Will Cost?
The labor time and complexity of the installation, as well as the quality, fit, and finish of the head unit itself will all impact how much a CarPlay installation will cost you.
Wiring & Compatibility
One of the biggest challenges when installing any aftermarket automotive electronics is compatibility. Depending on the age of your vehicle, there may be pre-built wiring harnesses available that make installing aftermarket head units easier. Older cars will require custom wiring, which adds additional labor time.
Vehicle Complexity
Another component that impacts the cost of installing any aftermarket head unit, including one with CarPlay, is the complexity of the vehicle. Really, when we say complexity, we are saying how modern it is. More modern (2010+) vehicles are equipped with lots of tech from the factory that tie directly into the factory infotainment system including:
- Backup camera
- Microphones
- Steering wheel control
- A/C and heat control
It’s important to retain these features from a safety and comfort standpoint. Installing an upgrade like CarPlay shouldn’t take away from the existing systems in your car or truck. While aftermarket retention and wiring harnesses can help with the process of integrating existing systems into your new head unit, the complexity and cost will come down to what vehicle you have.
Fit & Finish
Outside of functionality, the final fit and finish of your new CarPlay system is another thing to consider. A properly installed aftermarket head unit should look as close to OEM as possible, integrating seamlessly with the space where your old infotainment system was located. The cost of the head unit itself can vary significantly as well.
Fit and finish gets more complicated on older vehicles, since there often isn’t a preexisting space for larger screens. The custom modifications that can be required in these applications can greatly impact the cost of an installation.
So, What Can I Expect to Pay for Apple CarPlay?
As with most “how much does it cost” questions, the true answer is “it depends”. There is so much variability in the work required to install an aftermarket system, the only way to get an answer to this question is to talk to a professional installer. Typically, CarPlay installations start at around $400-$500 and can increase from there.
Can I Install CarPlay Myself?
Depending on your vehicle, you might be able to install a CarPlay system yourself, but it will require a lot of knowledge, tools, and patience. Even getting the factory head unit removed from your vehicle can be a challenge. Unless you are a hobbyist or have extensive experience with car audio and electrical work, it’s best to let a professional handle it to prevent damaging your vehicle.
Aftermarket CarPlay Installation in Salt Lake City
Whether you want to upgrade to CarPlay in your daily driver or project car, Innovative Audio is your source for aftermarket interior and audio modifications in the Salt Lake Valley. Our team of installers can handle any aftermarket CarPlay project. Give us a call or send us an email and one of our team members will help you figure out the best solution for your unique project.
About Innovative Audio
Located at 8600 S. 700 E. in Sandy, Innovative Audio is the Salt Lake Valley’s destination for custom audio, video, interior, and more for automotive, marine, and UTV applications.