Apple CarPlay Installation Cost (2025 Guide): Real Prices, Options & What to Expect

📅 Last Updated: October 2025
 ✍️ Written by the MergeScreens Installation Experts
 📍 Serving vehicle owners nationwide

Apple CarPlay is now a must-have for modern drivers since it lets you easily get to navigation, music, calls, and messages without taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road.

According to Apple’s official CarPlay overview, the platform now supports hundreds of car models and continues to expand every year.

You could have been thinking this if your car didn't come with CarPlay from the factory:
How much will it cost to put Apple CarPlay in a car in 2025?

We'll go over the real costs of installation, your choices based on your budget and type of vehicle, the most important elements that affect pricing, and why thousands of customers trust Mergescreens for smooth, professional Apple CarPlay updates.

How Much Will It Cost to Install Apple CarPlay in 2025?

In 2025, Apple CarPlay installation typically costs between $300 and $1,200, depending on your vehicle, your desired features, and whether you install it yourself or go with a professional installer.

These cost estimates align closely with data reported by Carpuride’s Apple CarPlay installation cost guide, which notes that most aftermarket upgrades range from $200 to $1,000 depending on the vehicle, head unit, and installation type.

 Estimated Price Ranges by Scenario:

 ● 🔧 DIY CarPlay Kit: $200–$400

●  🧰 Aftermarket Head Unit + Installation: $450–$700

●🚙 Premium System + Professional Labor: $800–$1,200

● 💻 Activating factory software (for newer models) costs between $100 and $250.

📞 Prefer a quick estimate?

 👉 Get a free quote from MergeScreens

Apple CarPlay Cost Breakdown

Component	Estimated Cost	Details
Head Unit	$200–$700	CarPlay-compatible stereo or touchscreen display
Labor (Installation)	$100–$300+	Professional labor cost (varies by vehicle and region)
Wiring Kits & Adapters	$25–$100	Required for older cars and OEM integration
Optional Add-Ons	$50–$200	There is a wireless CarPlay dongle, a backup camera, support for Android Auto, and more.

According to Apple’s official CarPlay overview, the platform now supports hundreds of car models and continues to expand every year.

What Affects Apple CarPlay Installation Cost?

1. Vehicle Make & Model

Some cars need to have their entire dash taken out and their wiring changed, while others can use plug-and-play kits or software to turn them on.

2. Your Existing Head Unit

The process can go faster and cost less if your car already has a double-DIN audio or a screen that works with it.

3. Installation Complexity

Tight dashboards, fancy interiors, or complicated OEM systems usually mean more work and more adapters are needed.

4. Desired Features

Wireless CarPlay, steering wheel control retention, split-screen display, and voice command support may add to the cost — but also to the experience.

DIY vs. Professional CarPlay Installation

DIY Installation

Pros

● Lower upfront cost

● Flexibility in timing

● Hands-on satisfaction

Cons

● Requires tools, patience, and technical skills

● Higher risk of electrical damage

● No warranty or support

Professional Installation (Most Popular)

Pros

● Fast (typically 1–3 hours)

●  Safer for your vehicle

● Maintains factory look

● Includes warranty and support

Cons

● Slightly higher cost

⚡ Want a hassle-free install?

 👉 Book professional installation with MergeScreens

CarPlay Installation Costs by Vehicle Type (2025)

Vehicle	Estimated Total Cost	Notes
Honda Civic (2015)	$500–$750	Requires full aftermarket head unit
BMW 3 Series (2019)	$150–$300	Often supports software activation
Ford F-150 (2014)	$600–$950	Large dash, requires extra harness adapter
Toyota Corolla (2018)	$450–$700	Compatible with plug-and-play CarPlay systems
Jeep Wrangler (2020)	$600–$800	Pro install needed for camera + steering controls

🧩 Unsure about your vehicle?

 👉 Check compatibility here

Why Choose MergeScreens?

Thousands of American drivers trust MergeScreens to install Apple CarPlay in their cars.

Here’s why:

● ✅ Certified, experienced technicians

● 🚚 Nationwide delivery + local installation

● 🕒 Same-day or 24–48 hour turnaround

● 🛡️ Warranty on parts and labor

● 💡 Custom kits matched to your vehicle

 ● 💬 actual help from actual people, not bots

Real Customer Story

“My 2017 Mazda3 looks great thanks to MergeScreens.They helped me choose the perfect screen, installed it professionally, and I had wireless CarPlay running in under 3 hours — all for just over $540. The interface and sound are a huge upgrade!”
 — Jessica P., Austin, TX

🛠️ Ready for your own upgrade?

 👉 Get your personalized quote

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it possible to add Apple CarPlay to any car?

Yes. You can upgrade most cars from the early 2000s onward with either a full replacement head unit or an OEM integration kit.

2. Is Apple CarPlay wireless?

Some systems are wireless-ready, while others use a USB connection.

 👉 Shop wireless-compatible units here

3. Should I install CarPlay myself?

Only if you're confident working with wiring, tools, and dashboard disassembly. Otherwise, professional install is safer and includes support.

4. Is it possible to use both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?

Yes, most of our systems work with both.

 👉 Browse dual-compatible screens

5. Is Apple CarPlay worth it in 2025?

Absolutely. CarPlay enhances safety, modernizes your vehicle, and integrates your iPhone apps like Maps, Spotify, and Siri — all without distractions.

About the Author

This article was written by the certified install team at MergeScreens, with years of hands-on experience upgrading vehicle screens and infotainment systems across the U.S. We're delighted to offer quick, safe, and dependable service to help drivers update their dashboards.

Final Thoughts

One of the best tech investments you can make for your car is to upgrade to Apple CarPlay in 2025. It will make your car safer and more convenient.

Depending on your car, the features you want, and whether you do it yourself or hire a contractor, you should expect to pay between $300 and $1,200.

🚀 Ready to transform your driving experience?
 👉 Get a free quote today or for more details on supported vehicles, you can also check Apple’s CarPlay compatibility list.