CarPlay Head Unit & Retain steering/dash funtions

I’m sure it’s been discussed but there is so much context I’m just asking

what are the best options for replacing the 3rd Gen (2018) head unit? I’d like the following functions

1) Wireless CarPlay
2) Maintain all/most of the dash/steering wheel controls
3) maintain satellite gps

thanks for the help

 

You need the Maestro RR (or Maestro RR 2) interface and truck-appropriate wiring harness. That’s the thing that will make the radio talk to the truck.

iDataLink also makes an adapter to retain the GPS antenna (but of course, you need a radio that it can plug in to)

Searching for Wireless CarPlay should be easy

several radios with CarPlay will have a GPS antenna meant to assist with your phone maps, but that does not always mean they have dedicated navigation built in. If you want dedicated, built in, no-cell-service-needed navigation, you need to make sure to find radios with that.
I will say, as someone with the top level pioneer flagship radio from a few years ago, the navigation isn’t worth the price. It’s difficult to update, and even then the maps are outdated. And you’re going to spend a TON of extra money on it.
I have used my built-in navigation once, and that’s because my phone turned off mid-route when I was outside of cell service so I couldn’t start a new route. But as soon as I had service, I went back to Google maps. For most people with concerns, I tell them to grab a $100 garmin to toss in the glove box in case of emergencies, and save lots of money on the radio.

 

This is helpful thanks, I hadn’t even thought of that re gps but it’s a great point.

have you heard of the PX6? I posted on Facebook and getting ton of recommendations there

 

I have. I’m glad it’s only $200 because you’re going to be buying a new one every year or two. There’s a reason those no-name Android units that seem like they’re awesome are only $200, and the top-tier pioneers and kenwood are $1,000+

 

The Mid level car play/andriod auto units are pretty good IMO. I have the pioneer 4200NEX and am happy. (~$600) Mine is a couple years old so its wired carplay only. There are newer wireless carplay options too. I recommend the largest screen you can swing. The new panel type ones are interesting but more money.

All will work with your steering wheel controls when you use the correct maestro or similar gizmo as mentioned above.

I agree that automotive gps is usually not as functional/updates as phone based units so I never use them on any of our cars.
Frankly I tend to run my phone NAV independent (on dash) of the carplay unless I'm on a longer trip, buy i know my wife uses carplay exclusively every time she gets in the car.


This opens the door for future stereo upgrades too. Real speakers and an amp are so much better than the stock stuff. More/better cameras....

Personally, I'd just call crutchfield and have them walk you through the choices. They will also l pre-wire harnesses and set up your steering wheel controller for a nominal fee.

Enjoy