- Turn standard CarPlay into Wireless CarPlay with an adapter
- Compatibility with specific car makes and models may be tricky
- Setting up the adapter is easy
Do Wireless CarPlay adapters actually work? I recently tested a CarLink adapter for my 2017 Honda Civic and had a nearly perfect experience. Setting up the adapter is no harder than pairing with Wireless CarPlay. I just connected the adapter to the car’s USB port that powers wired CarPlay, then paired my iPhone to the adapter over Bluetooth from the Settings app.
I was surprised when CarPlay just appeared on my screen automatically after taking a short drive across town with my iPhone in my pocket without thinking about the adapter. Steering wheel controls for volume, track skipping, and voice input work, but there can be some latency. Additionally, standard CarPlay takes over if you connect a Lightning cable.
The upside is that the adapter receives firmware updates, and the price can be much more affordable than buying an aftermarket Wireless CarPlay head unit and paying for installation. The adapter currently ships for around $55 with a coupon code from Amazon. I highly recommend trying this adapter or one similar if you already have CarPlay but wish it was wireless.
