mocanu

I've read through a lot of threads about this topic and I think I'm just going to keep it simple and replace the radio with one that has CarPlay. I'd like to find some way to use the nav screen and the built in bluetooth but doesn't look like I'm going to be able to do that.

I do have a couple of questions.
What is the physical size limit of what will fit and still allow the door to be used?
Which antenna do I use? I will occasionally use FM.
For the wiring and steering wheel controls will the package that Crutchfield offers work just as well as the more expensive alternatives spoken of on this site?

Not sure about adding a backup camera but will probably end up going that route.

I have a 2006 that was manufactured 3/06.

I'm still trying to figure out which way to go so I'm open to suggestions. At this time I'm leaning towards an Alpine iLX-650.

Bgw70

I installed two pioneers with the BeatSonic interface in both…very happy with each install.

430in303

What's your end goal?

- If you just want CarPlay, you can keep the stock head unit and buy a kit from NavTool or Naviks that will add CarPlay through your factory NAV screen.
- If you want a new head unit and want to mirror the display to your NAV screen, BeatSonic is the way to go.
- If you wan to replace the factory NAV screen with something more modern, this thread is a good resource. It is Android centric and I'm not sure if a similar iOS-based device is available.

mocanu

My only concern about this option is how well the factory screen will display CarPlay. My factory screen is hard to see with the top down. I do like this option if the screen will be bright enough.

430in303

I'm using it for screen mirroring from my iPhone. It's certainly not as crisp as the screen in my wife's 2018 Tiguan but for my purposes (mainly Google maps) it's good enough. A newer unit would undoubtedly have better resolution but my preference was to keep things as stock looking as possible. And with the top down ... even the best screen is going to have issues.

cjinthesky

I was not happy with the iLX-650, as it had issues with both Android and CarPlay. (I even bought an iPhone in the attempt). As I recall Alpines website acknowledges the USB extension cable may be an issue, but trying several made no difference. Also, there’s a lot of glare when the top is down (always!).

I returned it to Crutchfield and was pleasantly surprised when they even credited the non reuse-able dash mounting kit, plus their expertise is invaluable.

The steering wheel controls worked well with the Crutchfield adaptor.

I went back to OEM radio/CD/cassette (heh) and use an FM transmitter hidden in the center console to stream music from phone. (Check out RadioParadise.com listener supported hi-def eclectic mixes).

Backup camera using the nav screen was not too hard to install; there is good info on on this forum thanks to the many knowledgeable contributors.

cjinthesky