Apple CarPlay for Tacoma

Hi All,

Apologies for starting another thread on this subject.

I have a 2019 Tacoma Pro which I am very happy with, though I am a bit annoyed at the absence of CarPlay. I would welcome any advice on what needs to be done to get it installed.

From I have reading, I assume the head unit has to be replaced. The truck currently has the premium JBL with GPS. Any recommendations as to the best replacement?

 

If you go to Crutchfield it will tell you everything you need to add an aftermarket head unit while keeping your JBL speakers and amp. I ended up installing a Kenwood with wireless CarPlay. Best upgrade I did for my 2019.

 

https://empyreoffroad.com/blogs/res...pple-carplay-integration-for-2016-2019-models

 

https://www.beatsonicusa.com/toyotacarplayandroidauto.html

 

I like CarPlay, but it really doesn't do much more for me than my Entune.

 

The biggest advantage I've noticed is the ability to use a map service that regularly updates, at no cost.

 

And removing the input lock when the truck is moving so my passenger can input directions.

 

Having CarPlay in my 2021, just allows me to use Apple Maps as my navigation. Don’t need to buy the NAV as long as you got the cell phone.

 

I just did the swap on my 2019 to a 2021 headunit with apple carplay. All it needed besides the new headunit was a harness to get all the connectors to plug into the new unit.

 

@IMXPLRN did you have to replace the bezel since the new screen is bigger?

 

While the screen is bigger the overall size of the unit is the same. You can see in the first picture what I'm talking about.

 

Where do you bought it?

 

I bought it used from the classified area on here

 

@IMXPLRN thank you for the info.
I think I’ll do the same

 

That’s really nice! How does that work with the Toyota settings/menu with it?

 

I’d consider doing this swap from my 19 unit to an OEM w/ Carplay too. Any info on the wiring harness? I have the premium JBL system, so curious if the swap would be exactly like yours.

 

Contact autoharnesshouse.com and ask them. They are really easy to work with and make a great product.

 

Make sure to buy a deck that is also Maestro compatible. Maestro is also something Crutchfield sells and allows you to retain factory settings that are found on your stock deck (best not to lose those settings!) plus more.

I looked into these cool kits but at close to $700???? A new deck would cost less and provide more.

 

Interesting discussion. I also have a 19 Taco. I asked the dealer - they said Toyota has offered a software patch to enable Carplay for 2019 Siennas and Camry, but not Tacomas yet.

 

My understanding is that the Beat-Sonic is just an added device, I would keep using the JBL head unit, amplifier and speakers. Is that correct?

Also, would I still have access to all the apps currently on the JBL?

Thanks for the response.