Best Android Auto Retrofit Kits for Older Cars
Best Android Auto Retrofit Kits for Older Cars
Blog Article
With modern life, remaining connected on the move is not a luxury—it's a necessity. Android Auto simplifies the process by transferring navigation, communication, and entertainment apps directly onto your car dashboard. Not every car, though, has Android Auto preinstalled, particularly if it's several years old. Fortunately, there are retrofit kits for Android Auto that offer an affordable, easy solution to improve your car's technology without purchasing a new one.
Let's get down to basics about how retrofit kits work, why they make so much sense, what types are out there, and how you can even fit one yourself with minimal hassle.
What Is an Android Auto Retrofit Kit?
An Android Auto retrofit kit is a package that installs Best Android Auto Retrofit Kits for Older Cars capability on a car that didn't have it in the first place. These kits generally contain:
A new touchscreen screen (head unit) or interface box
Wiring harnesses for easy installation
Microphones for hands-free calling and voice commands
USB cables or ports for Android Auto integration
Dash mounting brackets (occasionally)
Step-by-step installation manuals
Retrofit kits are sometimes entirely plug-and-play, while others need to do a bit more, particularly if they are replacing a whole infotainment system.
Why to Select a Retrofit Kit for Android Auto?
There are various reasons why drivers retrofit Android Auto instead of upgrading their whole car:
Cost Savings: A new vehicle with Android Auto factory-installed costs lakhs more. Retrofit kits cost a fraction of that.
New Features: Google Maps, Spotify, Google Assistant, phone calls, messaging apps, and more—entirely hands-free.
Extended Car Life: Retrofitting technology makes your old car feel like new without affecting the engine or mechanicals.
Customization: Select the screen size, features, and integration level you prefer.
In short, a retrofit kit fills the technology gap for older cars.
Types of Android Auto Retrofit Kits
There isn't a single-size-fits-all kit. The best one for you depends on your car, budget, and level of upgrade you desire:
1. Replacement Head Units
These swap out your factory radio or stereo system with a new Android Auto-compatible screen.
Best For: Cars with basic stereo systems and no screen.
Top Brands:
Pioneer (DMH series)
Sony (XAV series)
Kenwood (Excelon series)
Features:
High-resolution touchscreen
Bluetooth, USB, and Aux inputs
Wired or wireless Android Auto support
2. Add-on Interface Modules
If your vehicle has a factory screen (but no Android Auto), interface modules insert into the system to provide Android Auto capability.
Best For: Vehicles with factory infotainment but without smartphone connectivity.
Top Brands:
BimmerTech for BMWs
NaviPlus for Toyota, Mazda, etc.
Features:
Maintain factory appearance and controls
Minimal modification to dashboard
Wired or wireless Android Auto
3. Wireless Retrofit Kits
If your car has wired Android Auto but you'd rather use wireless, these kits update the system.
Best For: Newer vehicles with wired Android Auto.
Top Brands:
Carlinkit Wireless Adapter
Ottocast U2-X
What to Look for in a Retrofit Kit
Before purchasing, keep the following in mind:
Compatibility: Ensure the kit is for your car's make, model, and year.
Wired vs Wireless: Wireless Android Auto offers convenience at a slightly higher cost.
Screen Size: Varies between 6.8" and 10". Larger screens are good but require additional dashboard real estate.
Sound Quality: Well-engineered retrofit kits preserve or enhance sound quality.
Ease of Installation: Plug-and-play kits minimize time and money spent compared to complicated installs.
Support for Steering Wheel Controls: Preserve volume, call, and voice control buttons if feasible.
How to Install a Retrofit Kit: Step-by-Step
Most retrofit kits are intended to be installed yourself. Below is a general rundown of the procedure:
1. Disconnect the Battery
Disconnect the negative terminal before handling your car's electronics.
2. Remove the Factory Stereo
Use trim removal tools to gently pry out dashboard panels. Unscrew and pull out the factory stereo or screen.
3. Connect the Wiring Harness
Connect the new system's wires to your vehicle's wiring with the harness provided. In most instances, no soldering or cutting is necessary.
4. Install the New Display
Hold the new screen in position with mounting brackets and screws.
5. Install the Microphone and USB Ports
Route the external microphone to a convenient but unobtrusive location, such as the A-pillar or overhead console. Install any other USB ports if necessary.
6. Reconnect the Battery and Test
Power everything back on and test the Android Auto functionality. Ensure audio, touchscreen response, microphone, and steering controls all function correctly.
Popular Android Auto Retrofit Kits in 2025
Here's a brief look at some top-recommended options:
Kit Type Best For Approximate Price (INR)
Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX Replacement Head Unit Full upgrade with wireless AA ₹42,000–₹48,000
BimmerTech Android Auto MMI Prime Add-on Interface BMW retrofits ₹55,000–₹70,000
Carlinkit 5.0 Wireless Adapter Wireless Adapter Wired to wireless upgrade ₹6,000–₹8,000
Ottocast U2-X Pro Wireless Adapter Fast wireless connectivity ₹9,000–₹11,000
Kenwood DMX9708S
Replacement Head Unit
High-end audio & AA/CarPlay
₹48,000–₹52,000
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Buying the Wrong Kit: Always verify vehicle compatibility first.
Missing Firmware Updates: Certain kits need updates for complete Android Auto compatibility.
Incorrect Mounting: Mount the screen firmly to prevent vibrations while driving.
Ignoring Microphone Placement: A bad mic placement ensures poor voice command performance.
Spending time researching and planning the installation prevents these common mistakes.
Final Thoughts
Installing Android Auto in your vehicle with a retrofit kit is one of the best technological updates you can do. Whether you want complete wireless connectivity, more screen real estate, or just safer, smarter driving, there's a retrofit for almost every budget and vehicle model.
The icing on the cake? Since there are many kits made to install easily, you don't have to be a pro mechanic to get a top-of-the-line in-car tech experience. For a few hours—and less than half the price of a new vehicle—you can upgrade your ride to current digital convenience.
So why not start now? Take the easy route to an improved drive with an Android Auto retrofit kit today! ????✨