Hey everyone! I have a 2010 Toyota Camry that I really love and plan to keep for the next 5 years. The only downside is that it doesn’t have Bluetooth. I currently use a transmitter that plugs into the cigarette lighter, but I have to be tuned to a specific radio station, which is far from ideal.
My question is, would installing a CarPlay head unit be a big upgrade? I know the factory CarPlay radios in newer cars are reliable and work seamlessly, so would an aftermarket unit give a similar experience?
I’m torn about whether it’s worth the cost, so any advice or input would be really helpful!
It’s definitely worth it, but there are a few factors to consider. The car, the radio, and the installer matter a lot. I recommend checking Crutchfield for a list of compatible units for your car. The radio is really important—if you go with a no-name or cheap unit, your experience might be poor. Stick with reputable brands like Sony for better quality. Also, installers are important. If they’re paid by the radio, they might rush through the job. The best advice I got here was to read the manual for your harness and do it yourself to make sure the work is done right.
I installed a Pioneer CarPlay head unit in my 2013 Camry, and I love it! It has Bluetooth for music, but you need to plug it in via USB for CarPlay. I think mine cost around $200, and the Bluetooth CarPlay model was about $300. I also added a backup camera, which works really well with the system. I didn’t go for the steering wheel controls, but I’ve gotten used to it now.
I’m really happy with my Kenwood DMX7722DABS! It’s definitely a solid upgrade. Just don’t go for those cheap AliExpress radios. Stick with well-known brands for a better experience.
Installing an aftermarket radio in your car is super easy to do yourself. It brings your car up to date with a nice tech upgrade, making it feel much more modern!
CarPlay is definitely worth it! If your car has a headphone jack, you can also use this simple device to get Bluetooth and speakerphone: Link to Bluetooth Receiver
It’s definitely a solid upgrade. Just don’t go for those cheap AliExpress radios. Stick with well-known brands for a better experience.