The evolution of in-car technology has been mind-boggling over the past decade. Today, many cars come equipped with advanced infotainment systems that not only offer navigational aids but also provide a host of features including music streaming, hands-free calling, and access to a range of apps. However, what do you do if you own an older British car, and you wish to upgrade its infotainment system? Is it even possible? This is the question we aim to answer in this article.
Identifying the Existing System in Your Vehicle
Before you start the process of an upgrade, you must first understand what kind of system you currently have in your vehicle. This would typically involve looking into the make and model of your car, the manufacturer of the current infotainment system, and the features it provides.
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Some older British cars may have a simple radio and CD player unit, while others may have a more complex system with a basic screen that provides navigational aids and phone connection options. In either case, knowing what you already have will help you understand what kind of upgrade is possible, and what additional features you could potentially add.
Your car’s user manual or an online auto forum could be helpful in identifying the make and model of the infotainment system. If you are still unsure, you can always consult with a professional auto mechanic or car audio specialist.
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Upgrading to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
For owners of older British cars, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are popular upgrade options. These systems allow you to connect your phone to your car, and your phone’s screen is mirrored on the car’s display. This means that you can use your favourite apps, make calls, send messages, and navigate with maps, all through your car’s infotainment system.
The first step in this process is to check if your vehicle is compatible with Apple’s CarPlay or Google’s Android Auto. You can find this information on the Apple or Google website, or you can consult an auto forum thread dedicated to your car’s make and model. If your car is compatible, the next step would be to acquire a CarPlay or Android Auto unit. You can buy these units from a variety of retailers, both online and in physical stores.
Once you have the new unit, you will need to install it. This process can be intricate, depending on the complexity of your current system and the vehicle’s dashboard. If you are not comfortable with this kind of work, it would be wise to have a professional do the installation.
Choosing an Aftermarket Infotainment System
If your car is not compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, or if you want a more integrated solution, you can consider an aftermarket infotainment system. These units are built by third-party manufacturers like Alpine, Pioneer, and Kenwood, and they can offer a substantial upgrade over your car’s existing system.
When choosing an aftermarket system, you need to think about what features are most important to you. Do you want a large touchscreen? Do you want navigation, or are you happy using your phone’s maps? Do you need a CD player, or are you okay with streaming music from your phone? Answering these questions will help you choose the right unit for your needs.
Keep in mind that installing an aftermarket system can be more complicated than installing a CarPlay or Android Auto unit. It may require additional wiring, and it may not fit perfectly into your car’s dashboard. As such, professional installation is strongly advised.
The Role of Mini Head Units
For those with older British cars that have limited space in the dashboard, or if you want to maintain the classic look of your vehicle, a mini head unit could be a good choice. These are compact infotainment systems that provide many of the same features as larger units, but in a smaller package.
Many mini head units now come with a small screen, Bluetooth connectivity for your phone, and even the capability to interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you can have access to modern infotainment features without dramatically altering the look of your classic British car’s interior.
Again, you need to ensure the mini head unit you choose is compatible with your car. Installation can also be tricky due to the small size of these units, so you may wish to consider professional installation.
Retrofitting Pro Infotainment Systems
For the ultimate upgrade, some car owners might consider retrofitting a Pro infotainment system from a newer model of their vehicle. These systems offer state-of-the-art features and a seamless fit into the dashboard, but they are also the most complex and costly upgrade option.
Retrofitting involves replacing the entire existing system in your car with a newer, more advanced unit. This process can be difficult and time-consuming, often requiring expert technical knowledge. Additionally, Pro infotainment systems can be expensive, with costs often running into several thousands of pounds.
Despite these challenges, a Pro retrofit can transform the in-car experience in older British cars, bringing them in line with newer vehicles in terms of technology and convenience. Just make sure you budget adequately for this upgrade, and plan for professional installation to ensure the best results.
Considering the Use of Single Din Units
If you’re constrained by space in your car’s dashboard, the use of single din units could be your best bet. These are devices that conform to a standardized size, making them suitable for many older British cars. Single din units are half the height of their double-din counterparts, making them an excellent option where space is a premium.
Single din units can come with features like CD players, Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to stream music, access Google Maps or other navigation applications, and even make hands-free calls. Some of these units even have flip-out screens that allow you to benefit from a larger display without taking up more space on your dashboard.
However, because of their compact size, single din units might have a smaller screen compared to other options. If a larger screen is a non-negotiable for you, you might need to consider other infotainment options or even modifications to your car’s dashboard.
It’s crucial to verify that the single din unit you choose is compatible with your car model. You might also need a mounting kit for installation. Considering the technicalities of the installation process, opting for professional installation might be the best course of action.
The Luxury of Touch Pro and Pivi Pro Systems
For car enthusiasts who own older models of luxury British brands like Jaguar and Land Rover, you might consider the option of upgrading to the high-end Touch Pro or Pivi Pro systems. These systems, originally featured in newer models, offer a luxurious and seamless infotainment experience that combines technology, aesthetics, and functionality.
The Touch Pro system, for example, fitted in models like the Jaguar F-PACE, boasts a high-resolution touchscreen display, a customizable home screen, enhanced voice control, and full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Similarly, the Pivi Pro system, featured in newer Land Rover models, offers a fast and responsive interface, better voice recognition, and a wide range of connectivity options.
However, before you set your heart on Touch Pro or Pivi Pro systems, forum members on several car forums recommend thoroughly researching the compatibility and installation process. These systems are designed for specific car models and might not fit perfectly in older British cars without modifications. Additionally, retrofitting these systems can be quite expensive, and the installation process could be complicated, often requiring professional help.
Conclusion
In conclusion, upgrading the infotainment system of an older British car is not only possible but can also significantly enhance your driving experience. Whether you choose an Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or an aftermarket infotainment system, the key is to consider your needs, budget, and the specific characteristics of your car.
Upgrading to a single din unit can provide modern features in a compact size, making it a good choice for cars with limited dashboard space. On the other hand, if you own an older model of a luxury British brand, upgrading to high-end systems like the Touch Pro or Pivi Pro can offer a luxurious and seamless infotainment experience.
Regardless of the upgrade route you choose, remember that professional installation is often advised to ensure optimal performance and safety. Also, do not forget to conduct thorough research and consult with professional auto mechanics or audio specialists to ensure the upgrade is suitable for your vehicle.
