Let’s talk tech! More specifically – infotainment system tech.

One of my favorite things about being The Car Mom is playing with all the latest and greatest car technology on the market. While I am constantly blown away by what manufacturers come up with, Apple CarPlay is still BY FAR one of my favorite innovations to hit the modern car market. But for those of you who have older car models, you can still get this tech in your car without spending thousands on an upgrade.

So without any further introduction, let’s talk all about how to make Apple CarPlay wireless in your car! All it takes is your iPhone, the correct adapter, and a little bit of patience to work through any tech kinks.

Apple CarPlay Is Your Phone Mirrored On Your Car

Apple CarPlay allows you to mirror your iPhone apps like Maps, Music, and Messages directly onto your car’s infotainment system. Think of it like having your iPhone display projected onto your car’s screen, providing easy access to your favorite apps while driving. Designed to help you stay connected, navigate, and listen to music safely, CarPlay eliminates the need to check your phone. Huge win for safety on the road.

How To Make Apple CarPlay Wireless In Any Car

Most cars require a wired connection to use CarPlay, but newer cars are creating a wireless setup integrated into your car's infotainment system.

Is Apple CarPlay Wireless?

Yes, Apple CarPlay can be wireless! Originally, CarPlay required a physical cable to connect your iPhone to your car’s infotainment system. However, many newer cars now offer wireless CarPlay, allowing your iPhone to connect automatically without a cable. Using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, your phone syncs with your car’s system, giving you access to apps like Maps, Music, and Messages directly on the car’s display.

While this wireless feature is standard in brand-new vehicles, not all cars (especially older models) have it already loaded into your system. The good news is that instead of having to spend thousands on a brand-new car or infotainment system, wireless CarPlay can be added using an adapter! It plugs straight into your car’s USB or USB-C port and allows your iPhone to connect wirelessly like it would in the latest car models.

Why Use A Wireless Apple CarPlay Adapter?

For many drivers, the shift to wireless Apple CarPlay makes a much simpler driving experience. For those who have never experienced wireless CarPlay, here’s how it’s really helpful:

Convenience: Your iPhone connects to your car automatically without the need for cables every time you drive. Simply hop in your car, and CarPlay is ready to go.
Upgrading Older Cars: If your car didn’t come with Apple CarPlay from the factory, a wireless adapter allows you to add this functionality without requiring expensive stereo upgrades.
Avoid Costly Overhauls: Instead of replacing your entire head unit or infotainment system, a wireless CarPlay adapter provides the benefits of wireless connectivity for a fraction of the price.

Requirements For Using A Wireless CarPlay Adapter

While wireless CarPlay is simple to set up, there are a few requirements you need to make this connection work:

iPhone Compatibility: You’ll need an iPhone 5 or newer running iOS 9 or later.
Car Setup: Your car must have a USB or USB-C port and a screen so the adapter can display the CarPlay function correctly.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Ensure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on, as wireless CarPlay relies on both to connect your phone and the car.

For older models, wireless CarPlay adapters work as a plug-and-play solution that’s significantly easier and less expensive than installing a new stereo system.

How To Set Up A Wireless Apple CarPlay Adapter

Setting up a wireless CarPlay adapter is incredibly straightforward and can be done in a few minutes. Here’s exactly how to do it:

Choose the Right Adapter: Make sure the adapter you pick is compatible with your car’s screen and USB or USB-C port.
Plug the Adapter into Your Car’s USB Port: This is usually the same port you use for charging your phone.
Turn On Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on Your iPhone: These will enable the adapter to connect wirelessly.
Pair Your iPhone with the Adapter: After plugging in the adapter, follow the prompts on your car’s display to pair it with your phone. Select the adapter from the Bluetooth list on your phone.
Complete the Setup: Once paired, finish the setup process by following any additional on-screen instructions in your car’s infotainment system.
Automatic Connection: After the initial setup, your phone will connect to CarPlay wirelessly every time you start your car.

Best Wireless CarPlay Adapter

There are a TON of wireless CarPlay adapters out there, but some are definitely made better than others. The best one I’ve tried is the TERUNSOUI Wireless CarPlay Adapter. It’s highly rated and has really great compatibility and setup.

What About Android Auto?

If you’re using an Android device, many of these same adapters also support Android Auto, which functions the same as Apple CarPlay. Android Auto gives you the same access to essential apps like Maps, Music, and Messages on your car’s display, and wireless adapters can provide a cable-free experience for older cars.

Apple CarPlay Adapters Can Save You Thousands

If your car didn’t come equipped with Apple CarPlay, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on a full infotainment system (or even a new car) upgrade. A wireless CarPlay adapter is an affordable, easy-to-install option that gives you access to modern in-car technology without breaking the bank.

Most importantly, it allows you to get all the aspects of your phone you use on a daily basis without ever having to touch your phone. A much safer driving environment for everyone.

Do you have any further questions on how Apple CarPlay adapters work? Let me know in the comments! And to keep up with the latest updates on car technology, check out my recent posts:

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