Is updating your old car to Apple CarPlay worth it?
Audio By Carbonatix
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 can be a relatively inexpensive way to bring your car up to speed
Maybe you saw Aston Martin recently showing off Apple CarPlay Ultra, the latest iteration of Cupertino’s popular in-vehicle digital assistant. Now it has you thinking about that 23-year-old BMW E46 in your driveway. Sure, some people love the period buttons and knobs. A reminder of long-gone times, no doubt. But maybe that doesn’t describe you.
In that case, an upgrade to an aftermarket head unit with a touchscreen and Apple CarPlay could be the right choice. With some considerations, of course. For starters, unless you’re a maestro of musical equipment and good with interior components, consider professional installation. A reputable auto stereo and electronics shop should make short work of installing a quality head unit, especially in consoles with existing space for a touchscreen. Fortunately, depending on your make, model, and preferences, you could find a decent unit for $300 or $400.
Of course, over 40% of mobile phone users opted for Android instead of Apple. No problem. You can get aftermarket touchscreen units with Android Auto as well. Still, don’t take the decision to fit your older car with newer car lightly; reverting to OEM equipment will not be a walk in the park.
It’s not a perfect solution for everyone
There’s a misconception among car buyers and sellers that adding parts and technology upgrades adds to resale value. I’ll break your heart: it doesn’t. If you fork over hundreds of dollars to buy and install Apple CarPlay in your vehicle, don’t expect to see that money again when it’s time to sell.
What’s more, as with anything in the aftermarket electrical category, play at your own risk. Gremlins do exist, and you may run into irritating little issues from time to time. It’s another case for professional installation, really.
