How Much Does It Cost To Install Apple CarPlay Screen?

Ever caught yourself fumbling with your phone at a red light, wishing your car had that slick CarPlay setup your friend flexed on the last road trip?

You finally decide it’s time to upgrade, but once you start looking around, you’re hit with prices all over the place. One shop says $150, another says over $1,000 for a built-in unit. And now you're stuck wondering… why such a massive gap?

Here’s what most places won’t tell you upfront: the cost of adding Apple CarPlay can be as cheap as $0 if you buy the right product that comes with plug-n-play capabilities.

So before you spend your weekend pulling apart your dash or dropping serious cash on an upgrade, take a breath.

This guide will explain what affects the price, what to expect, and how to avoid surprise fees. If you're just looking for something that works without the stress, we’ll show you a smarter option: our mountable CarTablet™ screens. 

They install in minutes, work beautifully, and cost way less than what most shops charge.

CarPlay Screen Installation: Quick Cost Breakdown

If you're short on time, here's a quick price breakdown to help you understand the cost of installing Our CarPlay in your car. Scroll down for more details so you know exactly what to expect.

1. It cost $0 to install our CarTablet Pro and CarTablet Pro Max models.
2. Installation takes less than a minute as long as your car has a cigarette port.

3. We built our CarTablet Pro Max to require zero installation fees with a plug that goes into your cigarette lighter and i powered and ready to use in 5 minutes

4. The most affordable carPlay screen is our CarTablet Pro Max dashboard-mounted screen, which costs under $200 per unit.

5. At GetCarTablet, we offer CarTablet Pro™ and CarTablet Pro Max™ mountable CarPlay screens. These screens require no tools and can be set up in less than five minutes.

So, you have two main choices regarding cost: a mounted CarPlay screen like ours, which offers a quick and easy setup, or a more expensive complete built-in head unit replacement. 

If you want to save money, get more value, and have a seamless CarPlay experience, we recommend using a mountable CarPlay screen rather than a built-in screen.

Here is our breakdown of the difference between a dashboard-mounted CarPlay unit and a built-in screen:

Let’s break them down further so you can decide which option works best for your car.

Aftermarket Built in Head Unit Option

The total cost is determined by the equipment chosen, installation method, and necessary adapters. After comparing quotes on the Crutchfield database, here is what you can expect to pay. 

Equipment costs (head unit/screen)

The primary component you'll need is a CarPlay-compatible head unit or infotainment system. Prices for these units vary based on brand, features, and connectivity options:

1. Standard Aftermarket Head Units: Typically range from $200 to $400. They offer basic CarPlay functionality with wired connections. For example, you can find models like the Pioneer DMH-WC5700NEX under $400.

2. Premium Models: High-end units with wireless CarPlay, enhanced displays, and additional features can cost between $500 and $700 or more. Some models, like the Dynavin Unit, can cost as much as $800.

Professional Installation Expenses

The cost of professional installation usually ranges between $100 and $200. The exact price depends on the complexity of the job and where you live.

In most places, labor is charged for about two hours, but the hourly rate varies by location. You don’t need extra space to install it; the process can take up to three hours. 

Some installation experts say it takes 1.5 hours to update the CMU and another 1.5 hours to connect the cables. 

While working, technicians usually keep all removed parts inside the car.

Additional Adapters and Components

Several additional components may be necessary to ensure seamless integration of the new head unit with your vehicle's existing systems.

For example, wiring harnesses and adapters connect the new head unit to the car's electrical system. They typically cost between $10 and $50.

Dash kits and mounting brackets ensure the new head unit fits securely and aesthetically within your dashboard. Depending on your vehicle's make and model, the cost can vary between $20 and $100.

If your car has steering-wheel audio controls, an adapter will allow it to function with the new head unit. These adapters usually cost between $20 and $50.

To maintain radio functionality, you might need an antenna adapter, which costs between $10 and $30. Signal boosters, if required, can add another $20 to $50 to the cost.

Combining all these factors, here's an assumed and tentative breakdown:

Meanwhile, when you go to a dealership or independent shop, they will give you a general quote covering all these expenses, so you won’t have to pay separately. 

Your Vehicle Model Influences The Cost (for Retrofitting)

The cost and complexity of installing Apple CarPlay in your vehicle can vary significantly, depending on the make, model, and existing infotainment system. 

1. Built in Dashboard Installations

Vehicles with standard, non-integrated audio systems often allow for straightforward installations of Apple CarPlay. 

These cars typically have a double-DIN slot, making replacing the existing head unit with a CarPlay-compatible one easier.

For example, a 2010 Toyota Corolla has a basic factory radio. You can replace the stock unit with an aftermarket CarPlay head unit that can cost between $200 and $500, plus installation fees ranging from $100 to $200.

2. Complex Integrated System Replacements

If you own a newer car model, such as the 2015 Ford Fusion, equipped with Ford's SYNC system, upgrading to Apple CarPlay may require a specific interface module to retain factory features. 

In this case, it means upgrading the MyFord Touch (SYNC 2) system to SYNC 3, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Modern vehicles often have integrated infotainment systems that control various functions beyond audio, such as climate control and vehicle settings. 

Replacing these systems with CarPlay-compatible units can be more challenging and costly, as specialized interfaces and programming are required.

Vintage and Classic Car Considerations

For vintage or classic cars lacking modern electronics, installing Apple CarPlay often involves custom solutions. 

This could mean fabricating custom dash kits. However, the best approach is to use mountable, portable CarPlay devices.

For instance, a 1965 Ford Mustang requires installing a custom-fit head unit designed to complement the classic interior.

A better alternative is to skip the stress and use a portable CarPlay device that doesn't require altering the original dashboard. 

Best Cost-Friendly Way to Use Apple Carply in Any Car: CarTablet Pro Max™

Instead of worrying over the high cost of overhauling your infotainment system with built in systems that has the potential to damage your car, we provide a mountable Apple CarPlay Screen with a Backup Camera. 

We invite you to fall in love with the CarTablet Pro Max™.

With the CarTablet Pro Max™, you get an easy-to-mount screen that fully supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wired or wireless. 

Its 4K high-resolution display ensures crystal-clear visuals and smooth split-screen functionality. 

The CarTable Pro model is 7-inch but is a more affordable option ($90). 

These CarPlay screens work with almost any car regardless of age, making it the best upgrade for a premium CarPlay experience.

Installation of our CarTablet CarPlay Screens (Costs $0)

Once you have the CarTablet Pro Max™, all you have to do is:

STEP 1: Use the stand or the suction cup (both included) to stick it on your dashboard or windshield.

STEP 2: Plug the cable into your cigarette lighter, 12V port, or car charger - it works in every car

STEP 3: Pair the screen with your phone via Bluetooth or connect using the cable - it works with both Apple & Android

STEP 4: Use the built-in speaker or connect to your car radio via the included AUX cable, Bluetooth, or the built-in FM transmitter.

Final Thoughts

The total cost of installing Apple CarPlay on your vehicle depends mainly on the type of CayPlay device you choose. 

For the ultimate value for money and stress-free option, it’s better to go for the mountable, portable CarPlay screens, especially if the car has an older infotainment setup. You can read our guide on installing CarPlay on older car models.

Our CarTablet Pro™ and CarTablet Pro Max™ CarPlay screens are flexible, easy-to-install options that cost less than $200. 

FAQs

Why does the installation of CarPlay cost more in some vehicles than others?

Some cars have complex infotainment systems, special wiring, or dashboard designs that require extra labor and custom adapters.

Are there ongoing costs after the initial installation?

No, Apple CarPlay does not have ongoing costs. However, if you use mobile data for navigation or streaming, your phone plan may have additional charges. 

Is buying a new car with CarPlay cheaper than installing aftermarket?

It depends on your budget. Buying a new car with built-in CarPlay is more convenient but costly. If your current vehicle is in good condition, it’s more convenient and cheaper to use mountable, portable CarPlay screens than to buy a new car that costs thousands of dollars.

Will insurance rates change after installing aftermarket CarPlay?

Usually, no. Installing Apple CarPlay doesn’t directly impact insurance rates. However, if the new system increases your car’s value or requires dashboard modifications, some insurers may adjust your coverage.