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I Put Apple CarPlay In My Wife's 2006 Toyota 4Runner And I'm Never Looking Back
Jalopnik • • technology
Key Points:
- Due to high car prices, many people are keeping older vehicles longer, leading to issues like outdated infotainment systems, as experienced with a 20-year-old Toyota 4Runner losing its auxiliary audio input.
- Upgrading the head unit to one supporting Apple CarPlay can modernize older cars affordably, restoring features like Spotify streaming and adding navigation, often at a lower cost and complexity than in newer vehicles.
- Installation requires basic tools, mechanical aptitude, and some problem-solving, but resources like Crutchfield provide vehicle-specific kits, wiring harnesses, and detailed instructions to simplify the process without altering factory wiring.
- The upgrade cost around $250, a fraction of a new car payment, and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it a practical solution to bring modern infotainment to aging vehicles.
- While some customization and minor modifications to mounting brackets and trim pieces may be necessary, the upgrade is reversible and significantly enhances the driving experience without expensive replacements.
