Skip to main content

Recently I was asked when cars started to get Apple CarPlay. It has become a desirable option, even among used vehicles. But instead of worrying about if older SUVs or trucks don’t have Wireless Apple CarPlay, you can add it later for about $50. 

Here’s how to add Wireless Apple CarPlay to an older car 

First of all, you don’t have to settle for wired Apple CarPlay in the used car market. It’s easy to upgrade to Wireless Apple CarPlay for $50 or less. 

Drivers of older cars with a digital display can easily bring the CarPlay magic to their ride with an adaptor that plugs into a USB-A or USB-C port. Then you simply take the step to connect your phone. 

Best of all, Apple CarPlay doesn’t have a monthly subscription cost like other navigation programs. But you’ll probably want to leave at least one USB port free to charge your phone. 

I’m assuming that if a car is too old for Apple CarPlay, then it probably doesn’t have a wireless phone charging pad either. 

Some people who enjoy modding trucks and SUVs take their CarPlay installation even further. They will remove the infotainment screen from their dash and replace it with an iPad. 

However, an iPad is more expensive than simple adaptor pieces. Some even pair with phones as old as the iPhone 6. 

Apple CarPlay displayed on a car infotainment system
A car with Apple CarPlay | iStock

But what if you want to go even cheaper? I know CarPlay has its benefits of being safer and providing better app connectivity. 

I also know that my primary uses for CarPlay are navigation and podcasts. Why not mount your phone to the dash with a holder and use that for directions? You can listen to music via Bluetooth as well. 

Some older cars might not have CarPlay, but they do have built-in navigation. It might need a map update, though. 

I don’t mean to sound bougie, but going wireless does add a level of convenience and freedom. That’s one argument to go against getting a dash mount or bracket for your phone. 

CarPlay came out in 2014 and got its start in luxury cars. Then around 2016 and 2017, it was reserved for higher trim levels.  

Now most new cars have standard Wireless Apple CarPlay, but prices for new cars are pretty crazy! You don’t have to find a used option with CarPlay, remember that it can be added later.

Best in Tips, Tricks & Trends
Avatar photo
Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.