Thinking of Installing DIY CarPlay? Read This First

Modern cars come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard, but many drivers of older vehicles are looking for cheap workarounds. Many drivers of older vehicles want modern connectivity without buying a new car.  It’s easy to see why, as most new cars now include smartphone integration and UK vehicles are ageing. A recent MotorEasy report notes that the average age of the UK’s 34 million cars is 9.4 years and that almost one‑third of cars are more than 12 years old. With more people keeping older cars, the temptation to retrofit them with DIY kits is growing.

Over the past month, Google searches for ‘plug-in car play’ have surged by 507%, and demand is only increasing after a TikTok video has recently gone viral. Gaining over 472.8k views, TikToker @lauracoenfit has highlighted the ease of installing a plug-in CarPlay system into her 2010 plate Nissan Micra. 

With new studies showing that almost half (45%) of UK-registered vehicles are older than 10 years, it’s no surprise that TikTok users are keen to upgrade their older vehicles with DIY CarPlay systems. With one user commenting, “omg I NEEEEED this” and another sharing that they are “sold!!”. In light of the surge in interest for DIY CarPlay systems, #CarPlay is trending on TikTok with nearly 273K posts.

Launched back in 2014, CarPlay systems quickly revolutionised the auto industry. Replacing a vehicle’s traditional radio system, built-in CarPlay systems are now the standard of modern vehicles, with 93.9% of new vehicles including CarPlay as standard equipment, according to an industry report. With over 272.8K posts on TikTok under #CarPlay, TikTok users have shared their hack of modernising their older vehicles with DIY CarPlay systems. From removing and rewiring the radio sound system to utilising their vehicle’s adaptor point, thousands of users have discovered the ease and convenience of CarPlay systems at a fraction of the price of a new car. However, many drivers are unaware of the hidden dangers of their DIY CarPlay systems.

Below, we have highlighted  four key factors to consider that could become a danger when installing these systems yourself: 

• Improper Wiring: DIY installation of CarPlay systems can lead to serious faults in your vehicle, especially if the wiring isn’t sufficiently grounded. This can increase the risk of short-circuiting, blown fuses and even electrical fires.
• Insufficient Power for Older Vehicles: DIY CarPlay systems can significantly increase the strain on your vehicle’s power system, especially on older vehicles. Systems on older vehicles were not designed to handle the increased power demands of CarPlay systems. This can lead to an increased strain on your vehicle's battery, frequent battery drains and even battery failure.
• Faulty Firmware: Many DIY CarPlay systems, especially those purchased from unverified sellers, can run on unverified or outdated firmware. Faulty firmware can increase the risk of delays in the device, systems crashing and even complete function loss when driving. 
• Increased distractions: Although CarPlay systems are designed to provide ease and convenience while driving, they can sometimes increase the risk of distraction.

With over 30,000 Google searches in the UK for ‘install car play’ over the past month, below we have given five important checks all drivers should follow before using DIY CarPlay systems:

Sometimes the safest option is not to retrofit at all. Here are two alternatives:

• Professional retrofit by a qualified installer: Good quality head units from reputable brands come with installation kits designed for your make and model. Professionals will wire them safely with the correct fuses and relays and can integrate steering‑wheel controls. They’ll also update firmware and advise on compatibility.

• Lease or finance a newer car with built-in CarPlay: With new cars offering near-universal smartphone integration, leasing might be more cost-effective than you think. Leasing spreads the cost over monthly payments, avoids the risk of owning an ageing vehicle and gives you manufacturer‑supported technology. Given that more than 40% of cars on UK roads are now over ten years old according to the RAC Foundation, a lease can provide a safer, more reliable option than modifying an older car.

DIY CarPlay systems promise modern convenience for older vehicles, but they come with real risks. Improper wiring can cause electrical fires, extra power draw can flatten batteries and outdated firmware can leave you fumbling with a frozen screen. If you decide to retrofit, take the time to mount and test the device properly, update its software and never allow it to obstruct your view. Better still, consider a professionally installed unit or if you’re looking for a newer vehicle with CarPlay built in, you can browse our latest lease deals.

Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK’s largest car and van leasing providers. We have been providing our customers with an unrivalled choice of cars and vans since 2002. We offer an unrivalled choice of cars and vans with competitive leasing quotations available at the touch of a button. For more information, browse our in-depth car leasing guides or speak to one of our specialists at 0345 811 9595.