Can you put Apple CarPlay in a 2014 Mazda 3?

This cost me $170 in total: $70 for Mazda to install the firmware, and $100 for the hardware. Took my stepdad and I 30 whole minutes to install.

Edit: I tried to share the AliExpress link, but it’s a blocked address for some reason. Just go to the website and search Mazda 3 carplay, and it should come up. It should be listed at $93, and with tax it’s about $98. It ships from Asia, so it takes about 2 weeks or so to deliver(if you’re in the US).

It’s catch-up time for Mazda! If you own a 2014, 2016 or 2017 Mazda, you might now be able to install Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Time was overdue for Mazda to make Apple CarPlay and Android Auto a feature in its new models. Now the manufacturer is seeking to make up for time lost in this domain.

During a presentation organized by Mazda Canada to present the new technologies included in the new 2019 CX-9 (just starting to arrive at Canadian dealerships as we write this), Mazda provided an exclusive scoop on what it’s about to offer its existing clientele.

Can you put Apple CarPlay in a 2014 Mazda 3?

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration will thus be possible in the new 2019 CX-9, as well as in the other new 2019 models coming up in the next while (except for the MX-5, which has it as an option). But Mazda will also make it possible for owners of certain older Mazda models as far back as 2014 to get the technology installed on their car!

This is still not a commonplace option offered in the industry, and represents a clever move by Mazda to leapfrog back to the forefront in the area of connectivity. The company has invited criticism for the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration in its vehicles, even as most manufacturers have been offering it for some time now. Two birds with one stone, as they say!

Can you put Apple CarPlay in a 2014 Mazda 3?

Eligible models
The installation process takes only about 90 minutes at a Mazda dealership. The update won’t be free, of course – cost is $445, including labour. Take note that the installation will be available starting later in 2018.  

Eligible models will have to integrate the Mazda Connect and HMI Commander systems. If your car meets the criteria and is among the models listed below, you can take advantage of this update:

-    2014-2018 Mazda3
-    2016-2018 Mazda6
-    2016-2019 Mazda MX-5
-    2017-2019 Mazda MX-5 RF
-    2016-2019 Mazda CX-3
-    2016-2018 Mazda CX-5
-    2016-2018 Mazda CX-9

Can you put Apple CarPlay in a 2014 Mazda 3?

Can you put Apple CarPlay in a 2014 Mazda 3?

Can you put Apple CarPlay in a 2014 Mazda 3?

Mazda CarPlay plans took a step forward today when the company announced a retrofit option for some older models.

Mazda was named as a CarPlay partner way back in 2015, but it wasn’t until this year that it finally launched the option on new cars, starting with the Mazda6. It promised a Mazda CarPlay option for older cars at the time, and says that this is now available …

It’s available for 2014 cars or newer, and they need to have the Mazda Connect infotainment system fitted, as it is this which gets upgraded to add CarPlay support.

It’s mostly a software update to the Connect system, but you also get faster-charging 2.1-amp USB ports as part of the deal.

The good news is that the upgrade itself costs only $199 – much cheaper than most after-market options – but you do need to have the work done at a Mazda dealer and pay labor charges of around two hours.

Apple CarPlay™ integration for your iPhone® and Android Auto™ enable occupants to safely use smartphone applications through the MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system and help make staying connected and entertained effortless.With Mazda’s philosophy to minimize distracted driving, safer operations can be made with the multi-function Commander knob, shortcut buttons or voice command functions. This integration helps keep the driver’s hand and eyes away from their smartphone.

Customers with applicable Mazda vehicles can schedule an appointment (requires approximately two service hours) with their local Mazda dealerships to have the service performed. The upgrade has a suggested retail price of $199 (MSRP) + Labor.

In new cars, Mazda CarPlay is now available for the 2019 CX-9 and CX-5 models, in addition to the 2018 Mazda6.

Waze navigation got CarPlay support back in September (how-to guide), and iOS 12 improved the experience for Apple Watch owners.

If your car isn’t compatible, there are plenty of aftermarket CarPlay units available, starting from less than $200. Amazon’s choice is the best-selling Pioneer AVH-1300NEX.

Can you put Apple CarPlay in a 2014 Mazda 3?


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About the Author

Ben Lovejoy

@benlovejoy

Ben Lovejoy is a British technology writer and EU Editor for 9to5Mac. He’s known for his op-eds and diary pieces, exploring his experience of Apple products over time, for a more rounded review. He also writes fiction, with two technothriller novels, a couple of SF shorts and a rom-com!

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Can you add Apple CarPlay to a 2014 Mazda 3?

Integration for Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ are now available as a dealer-installed update for applicable Mazda vehicles, model year 2014 or newer and equipped with Mazda Connect™ infotainment system.

Can I add Apple CarPlay to my Mazda 3?

Yes, depending on your vehicle's model, model year, and trim, a Mazda Apple CarPlay® upgrade is possible. If you want to add Apple CarPlay® to your Mazda, the most recent version of the MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system and 2.1-amp USB ports will be installed.

How much does it cost to add CarPlay to Mazda 3?

As many as 370,000 vehicles are expected to be eligible for the upgrade, with the retrofit packages fitted roughly around $494.98. Mazda car owners can take their vehicles to any Mazda Dealership and have the hardware and software fitted within a couple of hours.

Can I upgrade my Mazda to Apple CarPlay?

Upgrade your Mazda today to enable Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto® in less than an hour!