Do you ever catch yourself balancing your phone on the dashboard, desperately trying to see the navigation while driving? Or maybe you've missed an important turn because your phone slid under the seat at the worst possible moment?
If you love your older car but wish it had modern tech features, you're not alone.
Driving a car without a touchscreen infotainment system in 2025 feels like stepping back into 1995.
But what if you're cruising in a 1994 Toyota Celica or even a 2002 Ford Fiesta and wishing for a modern upgrade?
A touchscreen radio might be exactly what you need. Can you add one to any car, no matter how old it is?
This guide will answer all your questions about transforming your classic car and updating it to the 21st century, and we will include some good product recommendations and tips on installing and upgrading your ride.
How to Install Touch Screen Radio in Any Car
To put a touchscreen radio in your old car, no matter the model, some schools of thought say you can install a single DIN audio/navigation unit with a motorized screen that slides out and opens.
But is this the best option for your old car?
Let's look at some of the downsides of a single din audio unit.
DOWNSIDE OF SINGLE DIN AUDIO UNIT
This upgrade is a sleek, all-in-one solution, but installation can be challenging. It involves removing the old unit, handling wiring, and ensuring everything works with your car’s system.
Also, you may need the service of a technician, which will cost more.
So, what is a better alternative?
BETTER ALTERNATIVE: MOUNTABLE CAR SCREEN
For an easier alternative, we provide portable CarPlay screen units instead. Installing a touchscreen radio on your car is a better way.
With our CarTablet Pro Max™ (2025 Model) screen, you can connect to car radio using an FM transmitter, Bluetooth, or AUX cable.
Thousands of car owners who need advantages:
✅ More budget-friendly than replacing the entire stereo
✅ Works with any car, no matter the model or year
✅ Simple installation—mount it, and you’re ready!
Our CarTablet Pro Max™ (2025 Model) Touch Screen Radio For Any Car
CarTablet Pro Max™ (2025 Model)
|
Screen Size |
10-Inch |
|
Resolution |
4K |
|
Connect With Car Radio |
FM Transmitter/Bluetooth/AUX Cable |
|
Compatibility |
Apple CarPlay (wired + wireless) Android Auto (wired + wireless) |
|
Warranty |
100-day free return policy, 2-year warranty |
|
Price |
$150 (+$15 with reversing camera) |
This car tablet easily connects to your car speakers through FM transmission, AUX, or Bluetooth, ensuring solid sound quality. With WiFi support, you can even stream on the go. Watching videos or using maps feels like having a mini home theater in your car. Plus, the screen mirroring feature lets you easily display an Apple or Android phone’s screen.
We designed it with a built-in 4K dashcam. It records everything while you drive, giving you extra peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents. The footage is super clear, even at night.
The package includes:
- 10-inch Car Tablet
- Dashboard bracket
- Suction cup bracket
- AUX Cable
- built-in FM transmitter
- Optional reversing Camera Kit
- Manual and video Instructions
- USB Port adapter.
QUICK TIP:
- The CarTablet Pro™ 2024 Model costs less and comes with a sun hood if you’re on a tight budget. But it’s a 7-inch screen size.
Installing CarTablet Pro Max™ (2025 Model) for Touch Screen Radio
Our portable CarPlay screen makes it easier to enjoy touch-screen radio. The installation process is breezy, and no complex wiring or special tools are needed.
Step 1: Mount the Screen
Choose the best spot for your screen. You have two mounting options:
- Dashboard stand: Secure it on a flat surface using the included stand.
- Windshield Suction Cup: Attach it to the windshield for a clear, elevated view.
Both options are designed for stability, so your screen stays in place while driving.
Step 2: Power It Up
Connect the power cable to your car using either a cigarette lighter socket, 12V power port, or car charger.
Since most cars have at least one of these power sources, this screen works in any vehicle, regardless of age or model.
Step 3: Connect Your Phone
Now, pair the screen with your smartphone. You can wirelessly connect via Bluetooth for a cable-free setup.
There’s also the wired option. This works seamlessly with both Apple iPhones (CarPlay) and Android phones (Android Auto), giving you access to maps, music, calls, and more.
Step 4: Set Up the Audio
The screen has its own speaker for instant sound, but you can also use the included AUX cable for a direct connection. Alternatively, you can pair it with your car’s Bluetooth for wireless audio.
Most importantly, you can sync the screen to an FM radio frequency and play sound through your car’s speakers.
Vehicle Compatibility Factors: What to Check First
If you're considering installing a touchscreen radio in your car using a tablet that can be mounted, it's important to check a few things first.
We designed our CarTablet Pro Max™ to fit almost any car, so you don’t have to worry about these issues.
But here’s what usually matters when installing a traditional system:
1. DASHBOARD SPACE & SIZE
Not all cars have the same dashboard space. Some have enough room for a big screen, while others don’t. The CarTablet Pro Max™ fits even small dashboards, so space is never a problem.
2. CARTABLET VS. SINGLE DIN VS. DOUBLE DIN
With a unit of the CarTablet Pro Max™, there’s really no technical replacement—just mount it and enjoy Apple CarPlay or Android Auto right away, including touchscreen radio.
3. FACTORY INTEGRATION (MODERN CARS)
Many new model cars come with built-in entertainment systems that are hard to replace.
Some even connect to the air conditioning and car controls, making upgrades difficult. That’s why we focused on making the CarTablet Pro Max™ work without needing to remove or change anything in your car.
4. LUXURY & EUROPEAN CARS
Some luxury brands (like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi) have custom dashboard layouts that don’t follow standard radio sizes.
This can make replacing the system expensive or nearly impossible. However, if you drive a modern version of these brands, you likely already have a touchscreen infotainment system.
Touch Screen Radio: Professional vs. DIY Installation
When installing a touchscreen radio, you have two choices: do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional.
From the installation steps above for the CarTablet Pro Max™, you don’t need a mechanic or special tools.
People who choose actual stereo replacement should know that DIY installation can save money, but it depends on comfort level with car electronics. You can consider doing it yourself if:
- Your car has an easy-to-access radio slot.
- You already have basic tools.
- You don’t mind spending time on wiring and setup.
We designed the CarTablet Pro Max so that you won’t need to remove your old system or deal with complicated wiring. Just mount it, plug it in, and you’re ready.
Final Thoughts
We know how adding a touchscreen radio to your car makes driving more enjoyable. With our CarTablet Pro Max™ unit, convenience is now easy to achieve.
It gives your car’s interior a modern look and easy controls and lets you connect your phone effortlessly.
You'll now have access to features like hands-free calling, music streaming, and navigation.
FAQs
Will a touchscreen radio work in my vintage car?
A touchscreen radio can work in a vintage car, but you may need a mounting kit and wiring adapters to accommodate modern connections. Our tablet-style mounts, CarTablet Pro™ and CarTablet Pro Max™ provide Apple CarPlay and Android Auto without modifying your car’s dashboard.
Do I need special tools for installation?
If replacing your factory radio, you may need screwdrivers, trim removal tools, and wiring adapters. However, mountable touchscreen solutions require no special tools—just attach, plug in, and use.
Can touch screens integrate with my factory amplifier?
Yes, but it depends on the wiring. Some touchscreen radios require extra adapters to connect to factory amplifiers. A tablet-style mount with Bluetooth or AUX support can provide seamless audio integration without rewiring.
What if my car has an unusual dashboard shape?
If your car’s dashboard doesn’t fit standard radio sizes (Single DIN or Double DIN), a mountable touchscreen is best.
It attaches securely to almost any dashboard, giving you modern features without modifying your car’s design. For our CarTablet Pro™ and CarTablet Pro Max™, we also include a sunction cup for elevated installation.
