How To Install Apple CarPlay In Older Cars: Easy and Fast DIY Guide

How To Install Apple CarPlay In Older Cars: Easy and Fast DIY Guide

We’ve all been there—driving our beloved older vehicles, like that trusty 2007 Toyota 4Runner, and watching newer models cruise by with their seamless smartphone integration. We hear this from our customers every day: they want modern features without giving up the reliability of their classic cars.

Drivers want navigation, hands-free calling, messaging, and music streaming, but they don’t want to pay the high price of a new vehicle. We completely understand.

What many drivers don’t realize is that Apple CarPlay isn’t just for new cars. This powerful interface that transforms your dashboard into an extension of your iPhone is surprisingly accessible for almost any car on the road today.

Whether your car has a basic media system or nothing at all, we’ve helped thousands of drivers bring their cars into the digital age with minimal investment and technical knowledge.

Installing Apple CarPlay in Older Cars: A Step-by-Step Guide

The first step is to purchase a CarPlay screen with the features you need, such as GPS navigation, backup camera support, or wireless CarPlay.

We recommend the CarTablet Pro Max™ from GetCarTablet, priced at only $150 and supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you're on a budget, you can opt for the more affordable CarTablet Pro™ (2024 Model).

In this guide, we’ll focus on the 2025 model, which many car owners on Reddit swear by for its easy setup and excellent performance.

CarTablet Pro Max™ (2025 Model)

What’s Included in the Package

The package includes:

  • 10-inch CarTablet

  • Dashboard bracket

  • Suction cup bracket

  • AUX cable

  • Built-in FM transmitter

  • Optional reversing camera kit

  • Manual and video instructions

  • USB port adapter

Easy Installation

Simply place the CarTablet on your dashboard using the included stand, or attach it to your windshield with the suction cup bracket.

Step 1: Mount the Screen

How to Set Up Your CarTablet

Step 1: Mount the Screen

Start by finding the best spot in your car to mount your CarTablet. The package includes two mounting options:

  • Dashboard bracket

  • Windshield suction cup bracket

The CarTablet screen is adjustable, allowing you to rotate and tilt it to the perfect viewing angle without obstructing your view of the road.

  • For the dashboard: Secure it properly so it stays in place while driving.

  • For the windshield: Ensure the screen is positioned at a comfortable height for easy visibility.

Step 2: Plug It In

Once the CarTablet is securely mounted, plug the included power cable into your car’s cigarette lighter port (also known as the 12V power outlet).

Nearly 99% of vehicles have this port, ensuring compatibility with most cars. The CarTablet will automatically turn on once connected, ready for the next step.

Step 3: Connect Your Phone

Now that your CarTablet is powered on, you can connect your smartphone. Choose one of these two options:

Wireless Bluetooth Connection (No cables needed)

  • Turn on Bluetooth on your phone.
  • Select the CarTablet from the available devices list.
  • Once paired, your phone will sync with the CarTablet, giving you access to apps, calls, and messages.

Wired Connection (Charges your phone while connected)

  • Use a USB cable to connect your phone to the CarTablet.
  • This method provides a stable connection and also charges your phone while driving.

Both connection methods take just a few seconds to set up.

Step 4: Set Up Audio

Next, connect the CarTablet audio to your car’s speakers. You have two options:

AUX Cable Connection (Best audio quality)

  • Use the included AUX cable to connect the CarTablet to your car’s AUX input. This delivers clear, high-quality sound directly through your car speakers.

FM Transmitter Connection (Wireless audio)

  • If your car doesn’t have an AUX input, use the built-in FM transmitter on the CarTablet.

  • Tune your car’s radio to the same FM frequency displayed on the CarTablet. Once matched, the CarTablet’s audio will play through your car’s speakers.

Both methods are quick to set up and ensure high-quality sound for music, navigation, and calls.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Apple CarPlay in an Old Car?

When we first set out to develop the CarTablet, making CarPlay accessible and affordable was a top priority. Many drivers hesitate to upgrade their vehicles with modern technology due to the high costs associated with traditional installations—especially owners of older vehicles, who often worry about compatibility issues and professional installation fees.

The truth is far more encouraging than most drivers expect. Let’s break down the complete cost structure of adding Apple CarPlay to your vehicle with the CarTablet solution.

The Hardware Investment

The CarTablet itself is your main investment, typically priced between $129 and $205, depending on the model you choose. This price difference reflects variations in screen size (from 7" to 10.1"), resolution quality, and additional features like a built-in dash cam, and whether you opt for wired or wireless CarPlay functionality.

What's truly remarkable is that this eliminates the need for the traditional head unit replacement, which can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,200, plus installation fees. The CarTablet bypasses this invasive, expensive option by offering a standalone smart interface that works independently of your existing audio system.

Installation Costs: $0

This is where the CarTablet stands out from traditional CarPlay solutions. While aftermarket CarPlay systems often require professional installation costing $100 to $500, the CarTablet requires no professional help.

Here’s how simple the installation process is:

  1. Mount the bracket on your dashboard using the included adhesive or vent mount.

  2. Plug the power adapter into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter port.

  3. Pair your iPhone wirelessly or use the included cable to connect.

Most customers finish this process in under 5 minutes, with no additional tools required. We've intentionally designed this system to eliminate the common barriers to upgrading your vehicle's technology.

Is Installing Apple CarPlay Worth It?

Is CarPlay Worth the Investment?

Yes, it is! Beyond just adding a stylish screen to your dashboard, CarPlay enhances your driving experience by making it easier, safer, and more convenient.

With CarPlay, you get hands-free calls, navigation, and quick access to your favorite apps—without distractions. This is especially true with a wireless connection, which makes the experience even smoother.

The CarTablet recommended in this guide is compatible with any vehicle that has a cigarette lighter port, 12V port, car charger port, or USB port—which have been standard in vehicles since the 1950s. So, if your car was manufactured after 1950, the CarTablet will work seamlessly with it.

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