4 Best CarPlay Accessories in 2025 – Even for Cars Without CarPlay

Introduction: One Tech-Loving Driver, Two Very Different Cars

Let me start with something very personal — I’ve got two cars. My main car is fully equipped with Apple CarPlay, and I honestly couldn’t live without it now. It’s so convenient. I can text my wife, call my kids, or blast my favourite Spotify playlist without ever touching my phone. The integration is seamless, the screen is clear, and it just works.

But our second car? It’s a big 7-seater family vehicle. Brilliant for road trips and the school run… but no CarPlay. At first, I thought I’d just have to live without it. But then I discovered some clever accessories that transformed the whole experience. And today, I want to share those with you — whether your car is already CarPlay-ready or you’re driving something a bit older.

Here are the best CarPlay accessories I personally use and recommend in 2025.

1. Wireless CarPlay Adapter – Say Goodbye to Cables

If your car already supports wired CarPlay, this little gadget is a total game-changer. I use a wireless CarPlay adapter just like this one on Amazon, and I can’t recommend it enough.

It transforms your wired CarPlay system into a fully wireless one. As soon as I start the engine, my iPhone connects automatically. No more plugging in, no more cables getting tangled around the gearstick — just instant CarPlay as it should be.

✅ Pros:

• Plug-and-play setup

• Keeps your dashboard clean

• Compatible with most factory-installed CarPlay systems

❌ Cons:

• Only works if your car already has CarPlay

• Some adapters may have occasional lag

2. Touchscreen CarPlay Display – Smart Tech for Older Cars

Now let’s talk about our family car. It doesn’t have CarPlay at all — but that doesn’t mean we’re missing out. We installed a wireless CarPlay-compatible touchscreen display, and it has completely transformed the driving experience.

We’re using the Gegaibe model, and it works beautifully. You get full CarPlay functionality on a clear, responsive touchscreen, and the sound can be routed through AUX, Bluetooth, or FM transmitter.

Just make sure you pick a screen size that suits your dashboard — some models are bulkier and might overwhelm smaller cars.

✅ Pros:

• Adds CarPlay to any car, new or old

• Responsive interface, good touch sensitivity

• Flexible audio options: AUX, Bluetooth, FM

❌ Cons:

• Needs a power source (USB or 12V)

• Not as slick-looking as built-in systems

3. High-Quality USB Data Cable – Stay Connected Without Glitches

For those sticking with wired CarPlay, a good USB cable is non-negotiable. I learned this the hard way — dodgy cables mean poor connections, sudden dropouts, and general frustration.

That’s why I switched to a high-quality CarPlay-ready cable like this one. It’s built for fast data transfer, long-lasting durability, and no annoying lag or random disconnects.

✅ Pros:

• Stable CarPlay connection

• Faster data and charging speeds

• Reinforced ends and tangle-free design

❌ Cons:

• Only useful for cars with wired CarPlay

• Slightly pricier than standard cables

4. LISEN MagSafe Phone Holder – Sleek, Reliable, and Strong

If you don’t want to go wireless but still need a place to put your phone, this is my go-to. I’ve been using this MagSafe-compatible phone holder by LISEN for over a year now, and it’s rock solid — here's the link.

It looks great, feels premium, and the adhesive has held up perfectly. The magnetic hold is strong enough for big phones like my iPhone 15 Plus, and it’s easily the best mount I’ve used. LISEN just gets it right.

✅ Pros:

• Super strong MagSafe hold

• Minimalist design

• Long-lasting adhesive — mine hasn’t moved in over a year

❌ Cons:

• Only works with MagSafe-compatible phones

• Not repositionable once installed

Conclusion: Enjoy CarPlay, No Matter What You Drive

Whether you’ve got a shiny new CarPlay-enabled car or a trusty older model, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy everything Apple CarPlay has to offer. From eliminating annoying cables to fully upgrading your dashboard with a wireless screen, these accessories have made a huge difference in my daily driving — and I’m sure they will for you too.

If you’re like me — a busy dad juggling family trips, work, and a bit of Spotify therapy on the road — these little upgrades make every drive smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

FAQs

Do I need a wireless adapter if my car already has CarPlay?
Not necessarily, but if you want to avoid plugging your phone in every time, a wireless adapter is a great investment.

Can I install CarPlay in a car that doesn’t support it?
Yes! With a compatible touchscreen display, you can bring CarPlay to any vehicle — even older ones.

Is MagSafe strong enough to hold a phone while driving?
Absolutely. With a good mount like LISEN’s, your phone stays in place, even on bumpy roads.

Can a bad USB cable affect CarPlay?
Definitely. A low-quality or damaged cable can cause lag, dropouts, or even prevent CarPlay from launching.

Jerome.

Jerome is a full-time lifestyle blogger and tech enthusiast based in the UK. He reviews gadgets, earbuds, and accessories that make everyday life better for men over 40. As a father of four and longtime reviewer, he shares real-world insights that go beyond specs.