A car’s interior can do a lot to date it. Merely glancing at a 10 or 15-year-old vehicle’s cockpit at this point can easily show off its age. The biggest giveaway is arguably an
infotainment
system. But if you want to teach an old ride new tricks, you can install a new wireless head unit with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. But should you?
Apple CarPlay offers a fairly cost-effective method for modernizing your vehicle.
Maybe you saw
Aston Martin
Recently showcasing Apple CarPlay Ultra, the newest version of Apple’s well-known vehicle digital assistant, it makes you consider the 23-year-old BMW E46 sitting in your garage. While many appreciate the classic buttons and knobs reminiscent of past eras, this isn’t what appeals to you.
If that’s what you decide, upgrading to an after-market head unit equipped with a touchscreen and Apple CarPlay might just fit the bill—provided certain factors are taken into account. Primarily, unless you excel at handling audio gear and have experience working inside car interiors, hiring professionals would likely be wise. An experienced auto stereo specialist can swiftly install a top-notch head unit, particularly within dashboards designed for touchscreens. Happily, based on your vehicle type, year, and personal taste, units ranging from around $300 to $400 may meet your needs effectively.
Certainly, more than 40% of smartphone owners chose Android over Apple devices. That’s perfectly fine. There are also third-party touch screen kits available that support Android Auto. Nonetheless, think twice before installing modern features in an older vehicle; switching back to original manufacturer components might prove challenging.
It doesn’t work perfectly for everybody.
Many car purchasers and vendors believe incorrectly that installing additional components improves value.
technology
Upgrading can boost resale value. Sorry to disappoint: it won’t. If you spend hundreds of dollars on purchasing and installing Apple CarPlay in your car, don’t anticipate recouping that cost when you decide to sell it.
Furthermore, just like with all products in the aftermarket electrical sector, proceed with caution. Electrical gremlins can indeed be encountered, leading to occasional pesky problems. This situation underscores the advantage of having them installed by professionals.
