2013 Chevy Equinox Apple CarPlay: Best Upgrade Options & Installation Tips

I remember the first time I tried to get directions on my 2013 Equinox's MyLink system – the whole process felt like going back in time. If you're driving a 2013 Chevy Equinox, you've got a solid SUV that came out just before Apple CarPlay became standard in most cars. That factory MyLink system probably feels ancient compared to what you're used to on your iPhone.

The good news? Adding Apple CarPlay to your 2013 Equinox is completely doable. You have several options depending on your budget and how comfortable you are with tech.

Key Takeaway

• The 2013 Chevy Equinox didn't come with Apple CarPlay from the factory, but you can add it through wireless modules, aftermarket head units, or simple plug-and-play adapters
• Wireless CarPlay modules like the MVI AutoPlay ($745) and GROM VLine VL2 ($680) keep your factory screen and controls while adding modern smartphone features
• Aftermarket head units ($350-$900) offer the biggest screen upgrades but require more work to install and change how your dash looks
• Simple wireless adapters ($120-$200) are the easiest and cheapest option, though they offer fewer features than full integration modules
• Professional installation typically costs $150-$350 for head units, while modules can often be installed yourself in 3-4 hours if you're comfortable with basic car work

Why Your 2013 Equinox Doesn't Have CarPlay (And Why That Matters)

Chevrolet introduced the MyLink system in the 2013 Equinox with what seemed like good technology at the time. The seven-inch touchscreen handled Bluetooth calls, played music from your phone, and even supported apps like Pandora through special connections.

But here's the thing: Apple CarPlay didn't become standard in Chevrolet cars until the 2018 model year. That left a five-year gap where thousands of Equinox owners were stuck with aging technology that couldn't keep up with how we actually use our phones today.

The MyLink system in your 2013 Equinox is limited in ways you probably notice every day. Navigation requires downloading a separate BringGo app that costs extra money. Music streaming requires awkward Bluetooth connections that don't show album art or let you browse playlists easily. And voice commands? They're nowhere near as reliable as Siri.

According to automotive industry research, more than 80 percent of global consumers expect their cars to have advanced connectivity features by 2025. The smartphone integration market is expected to grow from $10.98 billion in 2025 to $30 billion by 2035. This massive demand is exactly why there are now so many good solutions for older cars like your Equinox.

Understanding Your Three Main Options

You basically have three paths to getting Apple CarPlay in your 2013 Equinox. Each one makes sense for different situations.

The first option is installing a module that adds CarPlay to your existing factory system. These are devices like the MVI AutoPlay or GROM VLine VL2 that connect behind your factory screen and add CarPlay while keeping everything looking stock.

The second option is replacing your entire head unit with a modern aftermarket stereo that has CarPlay built in. These units typically have bigger screens (8-10 inches) and give you a complete system upgrade.

The third option is using a simple wireless CarPlay adapter that plugs into your USB port and projects CarPlay onto your factory screen. These are the cheapest and easiest to install, but they're also the most basic.

Let me walk you through each option so you can figure out which one fits your needs and budget.

Retrofit Modules: The Best of Both Worlds

Retrofit modules are what I think is the sweet spot for most 2013 Equinox owners. These systems let you keep your factory seven-inch MyLink screen and all your existing controls while adding wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.

MVI AutoPlay System

The MVI AutoPlay system is designed specifically for 2010-2017 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain models with the factory seven-inch MyLink touchscreen. At $745, it's not the cheapest option, but it gives you wireless Apple CarPlay that connects automatically every time you start your car.

What makes the AutoPlay system stand out is how well it keeps your factory setup. All your steering wheel controls keep working. Your backup camera stays functional. The climate controls remain in the screen just like before. You're basically just adding CarPlay on top of everything you already have.

The system includes an external microphone that mounts near your rearview mirror for voice commands, support for both front and rear camera integration, and optional phone mirroring if you want to stream videos when parked. Installation difficulty is about 5-6 out of 10, meaning it's doable if you're comfortable working with car electronics but probably requires a weekend afternoon and some patience.

GROM Audio VLine VL2

The VLine VL2 takes a slightly different approach at a similar price of around $680. Instead of just adding CarPlay, this system runs a full Android 12 operating system that gives you access to the entire Google Play Store.

This means you get wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, plus you can install apps like Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and Waze directly on the system itself without needing your phone connected. The VLine VL2 runs on a quad-core processor with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage, which is enough power to handle navigation and music streaming smoothly.

Like the AutoPlay, the VLine VL2 keeps all your factory features. Your MyLink screen stays in place, all your controls work normally, and the installation doesn't require cutting any wires or making permanent changes to your car.

The installation process for the VLine VL2 is well-documented on YouTube, with step-by-step videos showing exactly how to remove your dashboard panels, connect the wiring, and route the microphone cable. Most people who do it themselves report spending 3-4 hours on the installation, though some connections work best with soldering for long-term reliability.

Based on what we've seen at Car Tech Studio, one big advantage is that the Android-based system means you're not dependent on your phone for navigation or music, which can save battery life on long trips.

Aftermarket Head Units: Maximum Upgrade Potential

If you want the biggest possible upgrade and don't mind changing the appearance of your dashboard, an aftermarket head unit gives you the most features and screen size for your money.

Modern aftermarket stereos designed for the 2013 Equinox typically feature 8-10 inch touchscreens with much better resolution and responsiveness than the factory seven-inch MyLink display. These units include both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, advanced sound processing, customizable home screens, and integration with voice assistants.

The price range for quality aftermarket head units runs from about $350 for basic models to $900 or more for premium systems with all the features. Professional installation typically adds another $150-$350 to the total cost, bringing you to somewhere between $500 and $1,250 for a complete installation.

The big advantage of going this route is that you're getting current technology that will receive regular software updates. Your system won't feel outdated again for years. The screens are larger and more responsive. Sound quality often improves thanks to better amplification and audio processing.

But there are tradeoffs. Installing an aftermarket head unit is more complex than adding a module to your factory system. You're removing the factory stereo completely and replacing it with something that looks noticeably different. Some installations can affect access to factory features if you don't have the right wiring adapters. And if you're planning to sell your car someday, potential buyers might prefer the factory appearance.

Retailers like Crutchfield offer vehicle-specific filtering tools that show you exactly which head units fit your 2013 Equinox without requiring modifications. They also specify which installation adapters you need for steering wheel controls and other factory integration.

If you're looking for a complete upgrade solution, our collection of premium wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto head units offers various screen sizes designed for easy integration.

Wireless CarPlay Adapters: Simple and Affordable

Wireless CarPlay adapters are the easiest path if you just want basic CarPlay without any complicated installation work.

These small devices plug into your factory USB port or 12-volt power outlet, connect to your iPhone via Bluetooth, and project CarPlay wirelessly onto your existing MyLink screen. Popular brands like Ottocast and Carlinkit offer adapters in the $120-$200 range that literally take 30 seconds to install.

The Ottocast U2Air, for example, provides wireless CarPlay with connection times averaging 7-10 seconds and automatic reconnection every time you start your car. More advanced models like the Ottocast Play2Video Pro add built-in streaming apps including Netflix and YouTube, though you obviously shouldn't watch videos while driving.

Carlinkit takes a slightly different approach with adapters that mount to your air vents rather than hanging from the USB port. This keeps your dashboard looking cleaner and makes the adapter less obvious. The Carlinkit adapters support both wired and wireless CarPlay, giving you flexibility depending on whether you want to charge your phone while driving.

The appeal of wireless adapters is obvious: they're cheap, they're easy, and they require zero technical knowledge to install. You can move them between cars if you drive multiple vehicles. And if you decide you want something more advanced later, you're only out $150-$200.

But wireless adapters have limitations you should understand. The quality varies a lot between brands, with some users reporting occasional disconnections that require manual reconnection. Wireless CarPlay naturally has 1-2 seconds of delay compared to wired connections, which can affect audio timing. Most wireless adapters don't support lossless audio formats if you care about maximum sound quality. And your factory MyLink screen stays the same, so you're not getting any display upgrade.

User reviews suggest that sticking with established brands like Ottocast and Carlinkit rather than generic adapters makes a big difference in reliability. Spending an extra $50-$75 for a premium adapter often pays off in fewer headaches and better long-term performance.

Breaking Down Installation Complexity and Costs

One of the biggest questions we hear from 2013 Equinox owners is whether they can install these systems themselves or if they need to pay for professional installation.

Let me be clear: it depends on your comfort level with car work and how patient you are with tight spaces and wiring diagrams.

Wireless Adapters

Wireless adapter installation is genuinely plug-and-play. If you can connect a USB cable, you can install a wireless CarPlay adapter. The difficulty rating is about 1 out of 10, and the installation time is literally under a minute.

Retrofit Modules

Retrofit modules like the VLine VL2 and MVI AutoPlay rate at about 5-6 out of 10 in difficulty. You need to be comfortable removing dashboard panels, working in tight spaces behind your factory stereo, and connecting wiring.

The installation process involves:

• Removing the trim panel around your MyLink screen using plastic pry tools
• Disconnecting the factory stereo by removing mounting bolts and unplugging connectors
• Connecting the module's wiring to your stereo's power, audio, and data connections
• Routing a microphone cable through your headliner to mount near the rearview mirror
• Potentially soldering a connection to your steering wheel control circuit for full functionality

Most people with moderate mechanical ability report spending 3-4 hours on the installation. YouTube installation videos for both the VLine VL2 and MVI AutoPlay provide step-by-step guidance with close-up footage of every connection.

Professional installation for retrofit modules typically costs $100-$150 if you decide it's not worth the hassle of doing it yourself.

Aftermarket Head Units

Head unit replacement rates at about 6-7 out of 10 in difficulty. You're doing more extensive dashboard work, potentially dealing with more complex wiring, and needing to verify compatibility with all your factory features.

The installation requires:

• Removing the factory stereo completely
• Creating proper connections with vehicle-specific wiring harnesses
• Routing antenna connections
• Integrating steering wheel controls through adapter modules
• Testing all functions including backup camera and climate controls

Professional installation for aftermarket head units runs $150-$350 depending on complexity and your location. Urban areas with lots of car audio shops tend to have more competitive pricing than rural areas with limited options.

What Real Equinox Owners Are Saying

I always like to check what actual users are reporting before making recommendations, and the feedback on CarPlay upgrades for 2013 Equinox models is pretty consistent across forums and review sites.

Owners who installed the VLine VL2 consistently praise how well it keeps the factory appearance while adding modern features. Multiple forum posts on the Chevy Equinox Forum document successful installations with detailed step-by-step guidance. Users specifically highlight that all original controls continue working perfectly after installation, which is a common concern.

The MVI AutoPlay system gets similar positive feedback, particularly from owners who wanted wireless CarPlay without the additional complexity of a full Android system. Users appreciate the automatic wireless connection that "just works" every time they start their car. Several reviewers specifically mention good customer support from MVI when they had installation questions.

Wireless adapter experiences are more mixed. Ottocast and Carlinkit adapters generally receive praise for reliability and fast connection speeds. But generic or cheap adapters from Amazon frequently get complaints about poor build quality and unreliable connections.

A recurring theme in owner discussions is the value question: is it worth spending $680-$745 on a module when a wireless adapter costs $150? The consensus seems to be that for people planning to keep their Equinox for several more years, the module investment is worthwhile for better integration and more features. For people who just need basic CarPlay for a year or two before trading in the car, a simple adapter makes more sense.

One interesting issue that came up in my research is General Motors' broader strategy around smartphone integration. GM announced in 2023 that it would eliminate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from future electric models in favor of systems with subscription fees. This decision triggered substantial customer backlash, with users criticizing GM for "enhancing services revenue" by charging $35 monthly for features that were previously free through CarPlay.

This broader industry context explains why aftermarket CarPlay solutions remain so popular even for older cars. Owners want open-standard smartphone integration without ongoing subscription costs, and the aftermarket is happy to provide it.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is It Worth It?

Let's talk about whether adding CarPlay to your 2013 Equinox actually makes financial sense.

The cheapest path is a wireless adapter at $120-$200 with zero installation cost. You're adding CarPlay for less than the cost of one monthly car payment.

The middle path is a retrofit module at $680-$745, potentially adding another $100-$150 for professional installation if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. You're looking at $800-$900 total.

The most expensive path is a quality aftermarket head unit at $500-$900 plus professional installation at $150-$350, bringing you to $650-$1,250 depending on the system you choose.

Now compare those costs to what you'd spend replacing your 2013 Equinox with a newer car that has factory CarPlay. Even a used 2018 Equinox with CarPlay is going to cost you $15,000-$20,000 or more. A new Equinox starts around $30,000.

If your 2013 Equinox is mechanically sound and you're planning to drive it for several more years, spending $800-$1,200 to modernize the system is a no-brainer compared to replacing the entire car.

The value extends beyond just the dollar cost. Modern navigation with real-time traffic through Waze or Google Maps genuinely makes your daily commute better. Music streaming through Spotify or Apple Music beats fumbling with Bluetooth connections. Hands-free voice commands improve safety by keeping your attention on the road instead of your phone.

According to automotive market research, the smartphone integration market is expected to reach $30 billion by 2035, growing at about 11 percent annually. This massive growth reflects how important these features have become to drivers. A 2013 Equinox without CarPlay feels increasingly outdated, but adding CarPlay brings it up to modern standards for a fraction of what you'd pay for a newer car.

Which Option Should You Choose?

Here's what I'd recommend based on different situations:

Choose a wireless adapter if:

• You're on a tight budget
• You're not planning to keep your Equinox for more than a year or two
• You want the absolute simplest installation possible
• You're just testing out CarPlay before committing to a bigger upgrade

Choose a retrofit module like the VLine VL2 or MVI AutoPlay if:

• You want to keep your factory appearance
• You're planning to keep your Equinox for several more years
• You're comfortable with moderate DIY installation or willing to pay for professional help
• You want wireless CarPlay with automatic connection
• You want additional features like built-in apps beyond basic CarPlay

Choose an aftermarket head unit if:

• You want the biggest possible screen upgrade
• You don't mind changing your dashboard appearance
• You want the absolute latest technology with regular software updates
• You're willing to invest $1,000+ for a complete system overhaul
• You're also upgrading speakers and sound system components

For most 2013 Equinox owners reading this, I think a retrofit module represents the best value. You get wireless CarPlay, you keep your factory controls and appearance, and the $800-$900 total investment is reasonable for the improvement you're getting.

If budget is your primary concern, start with a quality wireless adapter from Ottocast or Carlinkit. You can always upgrade to a module or head unit later if you decide you want more features. For those interested in exploring all available options, check out our complete selection of Apple CarPlay & Android Auto modules designed for various vehicle makes and models.

Installation Resources and Support

If you decide to tackle installation yourself, you'll want to use the extensive resources available online.

YouTube is your best friend here. Search for "VLine VL2 Chevy Equinox installation" or "MVI AutoPlay installation" and you'll find detailed step-by-step videos showing the entire process. These videos include close-up footage of wiring connections, tips for routing cables, and troubleshooting guidance.

The GROM Audio website has comprehensive installation documentation for the VLine VL2, including wiring diagrams specific to the 2013 Equinox. MVI provides similar documentation and also offers customer support via email and text if you run into issues during installation.

For aftermarket head units, Crutchfield is an excellent resource. Their website lets you enter your specific car and shows you exactly which head units fit without modifications. They also provide detailed installation instructions, wiring diagrams, and phone support if you get stuck.

Forums like the Chevy Equinox Forum have active communities of owners who have documented their installation experiences. You can search for threads about CarPlay installations, see photos of successful installs, and ask questions if you're unsure about any step.

If you decide professional installation makes more sense, call local car audio shops and get quotes. Bring photos or product links for whatever system you're considering so they can give you accurate pricing. Ask about their experience with your specific car and whether they've installed the particular module or head unit you're considering.

Future-Proofing Your Investment

One advantage of adding CarPlay to your 2013 Equinox now is that you're positioning yourself to benefit from ongoing improvements in smartphone integration technology.

Apple regularly updates CarPlay with new features and app support. Recent updates have added improved Siri integration, better music browsing, and enhanced navigation interfaces. As long as your iPhone gets iOS updates, your CarPlay system benefits from these improvements automatically.

The automotive smartphone integration market is consolidating around Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as dominant standards, with these two technologies capturing about 80 percent of market share. This standardization means that unlike proprietary factory systems that become outdated, CarPlay will remain current and supported for years to come.

Sixth-generation WiFi specifications are being integrated into premium wireless adapters, enabling faster data transfer and reduced lag. GPS features are improving, making backup camera integration and navigation more seamless. Boot times are decreasing, with current-generation systems reaching operational CarPlay status in 8-12 seconds compared to 15-18 seconds for older adapters.

The point is that the CarPlay ecosystem continues improving even for older cars. The investment you make today in adding CarPlay to your 2013 Equinox keeps delivering value as the technology evolves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add wireless Apple CarPlay to my 2013 Chevy Equinox?

Yes, you can add wireless Apple CarPlay to your 2013 Chevy Equinox through retrofit modules like the MVI AutoPlay ($745) or GROM VLine VL2 ($680). These systems connect to your factory MyLink screen and provide wireless CarPlay that connects automatically when you start your car. You can also use simple wireless adapters ($120-$200) that plug into your USB port, though these offer fewer features than full integration modules.

Do I need to replace my factory stereo to get CarPlay?

No, you don't need to replace your factory stereo to get CarPlay in your 2013 Equinox. Retrofit modules integrate with your existing factory MyLink system, keeping your original screen and controls while adding CarPlay. Replacing your factory stereo with an aftermarket head unit is an option if you want a larger screen and more features, but it's not required for basic CarPlay.

How much does it cost to add CarPlay to a 2013 Equinox?

Adding CarPlay to a 2013 Equinox costs between $120 and $1,250 depending on which approach you choose. Wireless adapters cost $120-$200, retrofit modules cost $680-$745, and aftermarket head units with professional installation cost $650-$1,250. Most owners find that retrofit modules at around $800-$900 offer the best balance of features and value.

Is installation difficult for someone without car audio experience?

Wireless adapter installation is extremely easy and takes under a minute. Retrofit module installation is moderately difficult (rated 5-6 out of 10) and typically takes 3-4 hours for someone with basic mechanical skills, though professional installation is available for $100-$150. Aftermarket head unit installation is more complex and most people choose professional installation at $150-$350 to ensure proper integration with factory features.

Will adding CarPlay affect my factory backup camera and steering wheel controls?

Quality retrofit modules and properly installed aftermarket head units maintain full compatibility with your factory backup camera and steering wheel controls. The VLine VL2 and MVI AutoPlay systems are specifically designed to preserve all factory functionality. When choosing an aftermarket head unit, verify that it includes the necessary adapters for steering wheel control integration and backup camera compatibility. If you're upgrading your camera system, consider our HD waterproof reverse camera modules for enhanced visibility.

Does wireless CarPlay have worse sound quality than wired?

Wireless CarPlay introduces approximately 1-2 seconds of delay and doesn't support lossless audio formats, which matters if you have a premium sound system and high-resolution music files. For most drivers with factory audio systems and standard streaming music, the sound quality difference is barely noticeable and the convenience of wireless connection outweighs any minor audio quality tradeoff.

Can I install a CarPlay system myself or should I pay for professional installation?

Wireless adapters are completely DIY-friendly with no tools required. Retrofit modules can be installed yourself if you're comfortable removing dashboard panels and connecting wiring, with detailed YouTube videos available to guide you through the process. Aftermarket head units are more complex and most people choose professional installation to ensure proper integration, though DIY is possible with the right tools and patience.

Will adding CarPlay void my vehicle warranty?

The 2013 Chevy Equinox is over 10 years old, so factory warranty isn't a concern for most owners. Properly installed retrofit modules and aftermarket systems don't permanently modify your car and can be removed if needed. If you have an extended warranty, check the terms regarding aftermarket modifications, though most extended warranties don't restrict infotainment system upgrades.