Explained: How to Upgrade Apple CarPlay on Jeep Grand Cherokee

Apple CarPlay, which is available on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, allows you to use your iPhone apps like iTunes, Google Maps, Waze, and Spotify from your vehicle’s touch screen. With Siri, you can also make phone calls, send messages, and utilize navigation.

The iPhone has become indispensable in our daily lives. Of course, using it while driving is unlawful and dangerous, but CarPlay allows us to link our iPhone to our Jeep Cherokee. But how can you get Apple’s in-jeep technology inside your jeep? Everything is explained in detail.

Can You Upgrade Apple CarPlay on Jeep Grand Cherokee?

An aftermarket radio is the simplest method to install Apple CarPlay to any vehicle. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you should be able to figure out how to remove the original radio and replace it with an aftermarket head unit without difficulty.

If you’re not that handy, though, we recommend hiring someone to do it for you. Luckily, most radio installers can now handle a custom installation in practically any vehicle on the market.

There are different systems available, such as a dual DIN, but the main thing is that it includes everything you ought to completely connect your jeep’s audio interface and utilize CarPlay.

This system, like many others, maybe configured for a rear camera, which is extremely useful. I recommend searching around to discover what works best for your jeep and your budget now that you know what it takes to obtain the optimum iPhone integration in your jeep.

Because not all systems are made equal, do your homework ahead of time. Otherwise, I’d want to wish you a warm welcome to the future!

When Should You Upgrade Apple CarPlay?

Regardless matter which path you take; the main experience will be the same. Because the UI is so Apple-like (naturally), switching from phone to automobile is a breeze. CarPlay consists mostly of a home screen with shortcuts to all of your presently loaded apps.

The home button as well as any background programs that demand attention are always located in the left-hand sidebar. Surprisingly, Siri is the best thing CarPlay has going for it. CarPlay becomes significantly handier if “Hey Siri” is enabled—you no longer need to touch the head unit directly for most activities.

Instead, simply say “Hey Siri, do the job,” and she will…most of the time. She does have difficulty figuring out what you want at moments, but I’ll get to that in a minute.

CarPlay isn’t a stand-alone product. The head unit will have a USB input, and you’ll attach your phone to it using your Lightning cord. On the plus side, your phone will be charged. That’s very cool.

You don’t need to install anything to get started because CarPlay is incorporated into all recent iOS devices—just plugin and you’re set to go.

How Much Does It Cost To Upgrade Apple CarPlay on Jeep Grand Cherokee?

A CarPlay device will set you back around $1000. CarPlay offers a lot of advantages: it has a larger screen and a simpler UI, making it a more jeep-friendly experience. You can make phone calls and manage your music without having to take your eyes off the road. It’s safer, which is a plus.

But your phone can still do more, and while CarPlay is amazing when “Hey Siri” is turned on, the iPhone is much better! If you already have a Bluetooth head unit and a quality docking station in your jeep, you’re probably in a good enough position to avoid CarPlay.

That said, if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, it wouldn’t hurt to include a jeep on your wish list. However, if you utilize navigation frequently, it may be a different scenario. Navigation consumes a lot of power, both from the battery and the processor.

My Top Recommendation on Jeep Apple CarPlay Upgrade

Here are a few products that I recommend if you want to upgrade Apple CarPlay on your Jeep Grand Cherokee.

1. Android Auto

• Android Auto brings your favorite applications and services to your dash screen.
• Free turn-by-turn navigation with lane assistance, real-time traffic, places of interest, and more.
• Keep your hands on the wheel while making calls and sending messages.
• Create simple cards with weather, traffic, commute information, and more.
• Use your car’s built-in sound system to listen to your music and playlists.

2. Drive Mode

• The most popular navigation applications: Google, Waze, HERE Maps and more.
• The most popular music applications: Pandora, Spotify, Google Play Music, Player.fm, Power Amp.
• Popular texting applications: SMS, Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp.
• From the App launcher, perform a major speech search using Google Now’s voice capability.

3. Car OS

• Car OS is a strong and safe driving program that was created just for the road.
• Discover Car OS, the ideal dashboard application for your iOS smartphone, and all of its greatest features.
• Car OS will provide you with six important Car Apps.
• Allows you to drive safely, get the relevant information

How to Upgrade Apple CarPlay on Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can upgrade Apple CarPlay:

• In-dash touchscreens compatible with CarPlay are made by third-party providers such as Pioneer, Alpine, Kenwood, and Sony.
  
  
• Replace the head unit, which is the in-dash radio that controls the jeep. It’s critical to double-check that the new head unit is the right size for the car. Single-din head units have a 180 by 50 mm panel, whereas double-din head units have a 180 by 100 mm panel.
  
  
• To remove the dashboard pieces around the radio, loosen any set screws or hex bolts that attach the covering, and then carefully take out the dashboard pieces.
  
  
• Remove the old head unit by unscrewing the set screws that hold it in place.
  
  
• Remove the colorful wires from under the standard radio. Carefully pull the wire harness connecting the stock radio to the jeep away.
  
  
• Remove the antenna connector on the radio and set the old head piece away. Don’t throw away the old head unit, though, because the original radio will need to be re-installed if you want to maintain the new touch screen stereo if you sell the Jeep in the future.
  
  
• Install the new head unit and connect the antenna cable. Check to see if the links are working correctly by turning on the Jeep. If they do, install the new radio and attach the audio or video wire to the touch screen monitor.
  
  
• Nevertheless, if the radio does not come on, it is likely due to a bad splice in the wiring harness. Unplug the radio and double-check all of the cables.
  
  
• Reattach the dashboard and secure the head unit.
  
  
• Various aftermarket screens will communicate with your iPhone in different ways, similar to how CarPlay works in automobiles.
  
  
• Certain systems would need a USB cable, while others will be able to connect remotely using Bluetooth.
  
  
• Once you’ve straightened out the wire problem, you can sync your iPhone with built-in CarPlay just as you would in a car.
  
  

CarPlay-enabled displays are expected to have extra functionality, which might add to the cost. HD radio, SiriusXM radio access, a backup camera, and an HDMI hookup are all examples. Connected vehicle services like as Amazon Alexa and Android Auto are also available.

Conclusion

CarPlay is preferable to using your smartphone in the end, but it’s also fairly pricey if you’re not planning to purchase a jeep. It’s almost probably not better than using your phone in a dock for $1000 or more, but if you have the cash, go for it. If you’re looking for a new jeep, though, do yourself a favor and acquire one that supports CarPlay. After all, even base model automobiles are coming with 2017 accessories, so there’s no excuse not to acquire one. You’ll be glad you did it.

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