Innovation moves at such a fast pace that six months after getting that latest and greatest gadget, it can already seem outdated. When it’s a $300 cell phone it’s much easier to justify upgrading every year but when it comes to your car, not so much.
Google and Apple, two of the largest technology companies in the world, are dedicating a large of amount of resources towards developing connected car technology on your cell phone with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Imagine only having to update an app on your phone to get the latest in navigation and music instead of going to a dealership and spending $200-300 just to get the latest navigation DVD update.
Upgrading your factory stereo with an aftermarket unit will be the easiest and most budget friendly thing you can do to future proof your car’s infotainment system. The first thing you will need is an Android Auto or Apple CarPlay compatible head unit, we recommend the Pioneer AVH-4200NEX since it can use both platforms. Depending on your vehicle you may need some additional wiring harnesses but in this example of a 2015 Honda Civic, this is everything you will need:
Head Unit: Pioneer AVH-4200NEX
MSRP: $700.00
Metra 95-7882B Double-Din Dash Kit
MSRP: $24.99
Metra HDCC-02 Wiring Harness
(Retains use of factory amp, clock, aux input, and cameras)
MSRP: $99.99
Metra 40-HD11 Antenna Adapter
MSRP: $9.99
TOTAL $834.97
Optional
While the Metra wiring harness will let you keep your factory backup camera, if you would like to keep the use of your steering wheel audio controls you will need to purchase the Metra ASWC-1 harness for an additional $59.95.
