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Just Installed CarPlay on My 2018 Tacoma Sport – Totally Worth It

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by zhang zhang, Jul 27, 2025 at 6:47 PM.

  1. Jul 27, 2025 at 6:47 PM
    #1
    zhang zhang

    zhang zhang [OP] New Member

    Joined:
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    Just wanted to share a quick post – I recently installed a CarPlay module on my 2018 Tacoma Sport (non-factory unit). It cost me about $136 and was totally plug-and-play. Everything works smoothly, including steering wheel controls and backup cam.

    Took me around 1 hour to get it installed. I didn’t have to cut any wires or modify anything. Really happy with the result so far!

    Let me know if you’re considering doing this—I can share more install pics or tips.
    it’s been way better than I expected:

    https://aerisautocarplay.com/produc...-retrofit-upgrade?_pos=1&_sid=60a9ba03f&_ss=r

    Install took me about 1.5 hours. No splicing, no coding – just plug and play. It integrates into the stock screen, supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and retains all factory controls like steering wheel buttons and touchscreen.

    What I liked:

    • Keeps the factory look

    • Wireless connection is quick and stable

    • Calls, navigation, and Spotify all work well

    • Sound goes through AUX or USB input

    • Super budget-friendly
    Only minor downside: mic quality is okay, not amazing – but it’s usable. Also, if you’re picky about audio, USB sounds better than AUX.

    If you’ve been considering a CarPlay upgrade but don’t want to rip out the stock screen or spend $500+, I highly recommend checking this out.

    Let me know if anyone wants install pics or wiring notes – happy to share more!

    av6t4yhq7.jpg
     
  2. Jul 28, 2025 at 2:40 AM
    #2
    VaToy

    VaToy Life Long Member

    Joined:
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    Parts Unknown
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    2018 TRD DCLB Sport 4x4 Silver Sky
    Bilsteins 5100s on the top setting, 4runner Gray TRD Pro Sema wheels, 285/70/17 Toyo AT3s, Sumo Bump stops, TRD exhaust, ECGS Clamshell bushing, 1/4 shim for the lean and one inch rear block, OEM Pro grill and garnish OEM TRD Skid plate, TRD CAI, Demon Brackets, Rigid Industries Pro fog lights, OEM Trail Rails sidebars, Diode Dynamics LED SL1 high and low beam lights, OEM Roof racks, Clazzio leather heated seats, Remote Start, TRD Pro shift knob, tinted windows, Rockford Fosgate 4 channel amp for the headunit and sub and amp combo, OEM Puddle lights, OEM tailgate lock, OEM bed mat, LED interior lights, OEM blackout kit for letters, JLT catch can, upgraded 27F toyota True Start battery, Vleds led tail light kit with Pro tail lights, OEM Rave4 side mirrors with convex spotters,just to name a few mods.
    Is this a new head unit or an adapter of some sort hidden behind the unit? I'm interested in this, sounds nice!
     
  3. Jul 31, 2025 at 6:03 PM
    #3
    tmac75

    tmac75 Member

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    3.5 inch lift, Method rim, OTT tune
    Yes sir! Me too! Very interested! Is there any vids on YT about installation of this product?
     
  4. Jul 31, 2025 at 6:45 PM
    #4
    Toyota09

    Toyota09 Well-Known Member

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    I just tossed on a $60 Amazon 9" apple carplay screen on my ram mount setup and have it sitting in front of my stock screen setup. Cheap and easy for anyone interested.
     
  5. Aug 1, 2025 at 6:18 AM
    #5
    tmac75

    tmac75 Member

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    2017 Tacoma TRD Off-Road
    3.5 inch lift, Method rim, OTT tune
    It looks like a computer box adaptor for
    The original screen. Their website says it works with factory head unit.
     
    VaToy[QUOTED] likes this.
  6. Aug 1, 2025 at 5:17 PM
    #6
    VaToy

    VaToy Life Long Member

    Joined:
    Mar 26, 2018
    Member:
    #248467
    Messages:
    4,782
    Gender:
    Male
    Parts Unknown
    Vehicle:
    2018 TRD DCLB Sport 4x4 Silver Sky
    Bilsteins 5100s on the top setting, 4runner Gray TRD Pro Sema wheels, 285/70/17 Toyo AT3s, Sumo Bump stops, TRD exhaust, ECGS Clamshell bushing, 1/4 shim for the lean and one inch rear block, OEM Pro grill and garnish OEM TRD Skid plate, TRD CAI, Demon Brackets, Rigid Industries Pro fog lights, OEM Trail Rails sidebars, Diode Dynamics LED SL1 high and low beam lights, OEM Roof racks, Clazzio leather heated seats, Remote Start, TRD Pro shift knob, tinted windows, Rockford Fosgate 4 channel amp for the headunit and sub and amp combo, OEM Puddle lights, OEM tailgate lock, OEM bed mat, LED interior lights, OEM blackout kit for letters, JLT catch can, upgraded 27F toyota True Start battery, Vleds led tail light kit with Pro tail lights, OEM Rave4 side mirrors with convex spotters,just to name a few mods.
    I have Car Solutions front cam and an RF amp behind the head unit. Do you think this would be an issue?
     

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