BMW Retrofit CarPlay: How to Add Apple CarPlay to Your BMW

BMW owners who want to enjoy the benefits of Apple CarPlay in their vehicles may be able to do so by retrofitting their cars. Retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles can be a great way to upgrade the infotainment system without having to buy a new car. This article will explore the benefits of retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles, how to retrofit CarPlay, and cost considerations.

CarPlay is a popular feature that allows drivers to connect their iPhones to their cars and access various apps and functions through the car’s infotainment system. BMW was one of the first automakers to offer CarPlay, but not all BMW vehicles come with it. Retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles is a way to add this feature to older cars that were not originally equipped with it.

In the following sections, we will explore the benefits of retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles, how to retrofit CarPlay, and cost considerations. By the end of this article, readers will have a better understanding of whether retrofitting CarPlay is the right choice for them.

Key Takeaways

• Retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles can upgrade the infotainment system without having to buy a new car.
• CarPlay allows drivers to connect their iPhones to their cars and access various apps and functions through the car’s infotainment system.
• Retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles can be a cost-effective way to add this feature to older cars that were not originally equipped with it.

Benefits of Retrofitting CarPlay in BMW Vehicles

Seamless Integration with Apple Devices

Retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles allows for seamless integration with Apple devices. This means that drivers can easily connect their iPhones to their BMW’s iDrive system and access their favorite apps, music, and contacts directly from the car’s display. CarPlay also supports Siri, allowing drivers to use voice commands to make calls, send messages, and get directions without taking their hands off the wheel.

Moreover, CarPlay’s interface is designed to be familiar to iPhone users, making it easy to navigate and use. This means that drivers can focus on the road while still staying connected to their digital lives.

Convenience and Safety Features

Retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles also comes with a range of convenience and safety features. For example, CarPlay supports a range of navigation apps, including Apple Maps, Google Maps, and Waze, allowing drivers to choose the app that works best for them. CarPlay also supports a range of messaging and calling apps, including WhatsApp and Skype, allowing drivers to stay connected with their friends and family while on the road.

CarPlay also supports a range of music and podcast apps, including Spotify and Audible, allowing drivers to listen to their favorite content without having to fiddle with their phones. CarPlay also supports a range of smart home apps, allowing drivers to control their home’s lighting, heating, and security systems directly from their BMW’s display.

Overall, retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles provides a range of benefits, including seamless integration with Apple devices, convenience features, and safety features.

How to Retrofit CarPlay in BMW Vehicles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles is a relatively simple process, but it does require some technical knowledge. Here are the basic steps to retrofit CarPlay in a BMW vehicle:

1. Determine the compatibility of the BMW vehicle: The first step is to check whether the BMW vehicle is compatible with CarPlay or not. Most BMW vehicles produced after 2008 are compatible with CarPlay. However, it is always better to check the compatibility before proceeding with the retrofitting process.
2. Choose the retrofitting option: There are two options for retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles: software activation and hardware retrofitting. The software activation is a cheaper and simpler option, but it may not provide all the features of CarPlay. The hardware retrofitting option provides all the features of CarPlay but is more expensive.
3. Purchase the retrofitting kit: If the hardware retrofitting option is chosen, the next step is to purchase the retrofitting kit. There are several companies that offer retrofitting kits for BMW vehicles.
4. Install the retrofitting kit: The final step is to install the retrofitting kit. The installation process varies depending on the type of kit purchased. It is recommended to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the retrofitting kit.

Options for Retrofitting

There are several options for retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles. Here are some of the most popular options:

1. CarPlay MMI Prime: CarPlay MMI Prime is a budget-friendly and simple way to retrofit CarPlay in older BMW vehicles. It is compatible with 95% of BMW vehicles produced since 2008 and provides all the features of CarPlay.
2. Apple CarPlay software activation: Apple CarPlay software activation is a simpler and cheaper option for retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles. It is missing some of the features of CarPlay but provides basic functionality.
3. Wireless CarPlay retrofit: Wireless CarPlay retrofit is a popular option for newer BMW vehicles. It allows the driver to connect their iPhone to the vehicle wirelessly and use CarPlay without a cable.

Overall, retrofitting CarPlay in BMW vehicles is a simple and straightforward process. It provides the driver with a more convenient and safer way to use their iPhone while driving.

Cost Considerations

Cost-Benefit Comparison

The cost of retrofitting CarPlay into a BMW may seem high, but it is important to consider the benefits. CarPlay allows drivers to safely access their phone’s features while driving, including navigation, music, and messaging. This can improve safety on the road and make driving more convenient.

Compared to purchasing a new BMW with CarPlay already installed, retrofitting can be a cost-effective option. The cost of a new BMW with CarPlay can range from $35,000 to $60,000 USD, depending on the model and features.

Overall, retrofitting CarPlay into a BMW is a worthwhile investment for those who want to upgrade their car’s technology without purchasing a new vehicle. While the cost may be high, the benefits of CarPlay make it a valuable addition to any BMW.

Conclusion

In conclusion, retrofitting CarPlay into a BMW is a great way to upgrade the infotainment system of an older BMW. The process can be done in two ways: software activation or hardware retrofit.

Software activation is the simpler and cheaper choice, but it is missing some of the little extras that come with the hardware retrofit. On the other hand, the hardware retrofit option provides a more complete and seamless integration of CarPlay into the BMW’s infotainment system.

BimmerTech’s CarPlay MMI Prime Retrofit is a popular and budget-friendly option for getting CarPlay in an older BMW. The CarPlay MMI is compatible with 95% of BMWs produced since 2008, making it a versatile and convenient solution for BMW owners.

Overall, retrofitting CarPlay into a BMW is a worthwhile investment for those who want to enjoy the benefits of Apple CarPlay while driving their BMW. It is a relatively simple process that can greatly enhance the driving experience, providing access to a wide range of features and apps that can be used safely and conveniently while on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get Apple CarPlay on an older model BMW?

There are two ways to get Apple CarPlay on an older model BMW. The first option is to retrofit it using a third-party solution such as BimmerTech’s CarPlay MMI Prime. The second option is to activate it through BMW’s ConnectedDrive Store, which requires a subscription and a compatible BMW model.

What is the cost of adding CarPlay to a BMW?

The cost of adding CarPlay to a BMW varies depending on the method chosen. Retrofitting CarPlay using a third-party solution can cost between $300 to $1000, while activating it through BMW’s ConnectedDrive Store requires a subscription fee of $80 per year.

Is it possible to activate CarPlay in my BMW without visiting a dealership?

Yes, it is possible to activate CarPlay in your BMW without visiting a dealership. BMW’s ConnectedDrive Store allows customers to activate CarPlay remotely, without requiring a visit to a dealership.

What are the steps to update BMW’s infotainment system for CarPlay compatibility?

To update BMW’s infotainment system for CarPlay compatibility, customers need to first check if their BMW model is compatible with CarPlay. If it is compatible, then they need to subscribe to BMW’s ConnectedDrive Store and activate CarPlay. If it is not compatible, then they can retrofit CarPlay using a third-party solution such as BimmerTech’s CarPlay MMI Prime.

How do I find a service provider for BMW CarPlay retrofit near my location?

To find a service provider for BMW CarPlay retrofit near your location, you can search online for authorized BMW retrofit providers. BimmerTech is a popular third-party solution provider for BMW CarPlay retrofit, and their website includes a list of authorized installers.

Are there any specific requirements for retrofitting CarPlay in a 2016 BMW model?

Yes, there are specific requirements for retrofitting CarPlay in a 2016 BMW model. The car must have iDrive 5.0 or newer and a compatible head unit. Retrofitting CarPlay may also require coding and programming, which should be done by a professional installer.