C7 CarPlay Upgrade Z51: Factory vs Aftermarket Solutions Compared

If you own a 2014-2015 Corvette C7 Z51, you probably love everything about your car except one thing: the outdated infotainment system. While the 2016+ models came with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from the factory, early C7 owners got stuck with the older MyLink system that feels ancient compared to modern smartphones.

The good news? You have several proven options to add CarPlay to your C7 Z51 without trading in your car.

Key Takeaway

• Factory OEM upgrades ($1,200-$1,600 installed) keep all features including Performance Data Recorder and Magnetic Ride Control settings
• Aftermarket Tesla-style screens ($2,100-$4,200 installed) offer bigger displays but you lose PDR functionality
• Wireless CarPlay adapters (under $150) provide the cheapest entry point with zero vehicle changes
• The 2014 Z51 models with MRC lose touchscreen suspension control after OEM upgrades, but rotary knob controls still work
• We strongly recommend professional installation for factory module swaps due to tight workspace

Why Early C7 Corvettes Missed Out on CarPlay

The timing just didn't work out for 2014-2015 C7 owners.

Apple launched CarPlay in 2014, the same year the C7 Corvette hit the market. But General Motors had already chosen the MyLink infotainment system during the C7's development, and the hardware wasn't ready to support smartphone mirroring.

The 2014-2015 C7 models came with the HMI 2.0 module. This module didn't have the processing power needed for CarPlay. By 2016, Chevrolet updated to the HMI 2.5 module with built-in CarPlay support, making the 2016 C7 the first Chevrolet vehicle to offer it from the factory.

This created a frustrating situation. Your high-performance Z51 package came with cutting-edge suspension and engine technology, but infotainment that aged poorly compared to economy cars.

The original MyLink navigation uses static map databases that rarely get updated. According to Corvette enthusiasts, the factory navigation becomes "worthless" over time. It lacks real-time traffic data and has an outdated interface that looks like something from a previous generation.

Factory OEM Module Upgrade: The Purist's Choice

The most popular upgrade path among C7 Z51 owners involves swapping out three factory modules with newer OEM components that have CarPlay support.

Companies like MVI and Infotainment.com focus on this approach. They provide genuine GM parts that have been pre-programmed for 2014-2015 C7 models. You essentially get the 2016+ infotainment experience.

What Gets Replaced

The upgrade requires replacing three separate components:

• The HMI module (located above the driver's side kick panel)
• The Radio Control Module (behind the driver's side footwell)
• The USB Media Hub (in the center armrest)

If your car didn't come with factory navigation, you'll also need to add a GPS antenna.

Each component comes pre-programmed to your specific VIN. You just plug them in without needing dealer involvement or additional setup.

Features You Keep

This is where the factory approach really shines.

You keep full functionality of your Performance Data Recorder. This matters if you use your Z51 for track days. The PDR continues recording video and performance data exactly as it did before.

Your drive mode selections work the same through the multifunction rotary knob. The Magnetic Ride Control system works normally, and your rear camera with parking gridlines displays perfectly.

HD Radio and SiriusXM integration carry over without any changes. The factory Bose audio system continues working with all its original settings.

The 2014 Z51 Limitation

Here's an important note for 2014 model year owners.

If you have a 2014 C7 Z51 with both Magnetic Ride Control and the NPP performance exhaust, you'll lose the touchscreen controls for adjusting suspension stiffness and exhaust sound modes. This happens because the Electronic Suspension Control Module differs between 2014 and 2015 model years.

You don't lose the functionality itself, though. The multifunction rotary knob on your center console still controls all these settings. You just can't adjust them via touchscreen anymore.

The exhaust sound still changes when you switch drive modes using the knob. All your performance data still displays. You simply lose one method of controlling these features.

2015 models and 2014 models without MRC or NPP don't have this limitation.

Steering Wheel Control Trade-off

When using CarPlay or Android Auto with the factory upgrade, your steering wheel controls for voice activation don't work while your phone is plugged in.

You can't press the steering wheel button to activate Siri or Google Assistant during CarPlay use. Instead, you'll need to use the touchscreen voice button or rely on "Hey Siri" or "OK Google" voice commands.

Volume controls and other steering wheel functions work fine when you're not using CarPlay. The limitation only applies during active smartphone projection.

Some owners find this mildly annoying. Others barely notice since voice activation still works through other methods.

Installation Reality

The installation process is technically simple but physically challenging.

You're working in tight spaces with limited visibility. The driver's side footwell area where the HMI module sits requires careful trim panel removal and navigating around the parking brake and steering column supports.

The Radio Control Module under the passenger side presents the biggest challenge. You'll remove multiple trim panels, work in awkward positions, and carefully release plastic clips that can break if forced.

Professional installers typically complete the job in 90 minutes to 2 hours. DIY installers with automotive experience should budget 3-4 hours. If you lack experience with trim panel removal, expect 5-8 hours or consider paying a professional.

Once it's done, it's done. No ongoing maintenance or adjustments needed.

Cost Breakdown

The parts package from MVI runs $899-$999 depending on whether your car has factory navigation.

Professional installation adds $300-$600 depending on your location and the installer's experience with C7 models. Total installed cost typically lands between $1,200 and $1,600.

For DIY installation, you'll need basic hand tools, trim removal tools, and patience. The parts cost remains the same, but you save the labor expense.

White Audio and Media: The Steering Wheel Solution

WAMS offers a solution that addresses the steering wheel control limitation of standard factory upgrades.

Their approach involves selecting specific OEM modules that support projection-aware input handling, then applying custom programming that enables full steering wheel control functionality within CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Cluster Upgrade Kit

For owners who already installed a standard factory upgrade and want full steering wheel controls, WAMS sells a Corvette C7 Cluster Upgrade Kit for $400-$500.

This custom-programmed instrument cluster replacement brings back factory steering wheel control behavior as if your car came with CarPlay from the factory.

The cluster arrives pre-programmed based on your specific vehicle options, powertrain setup, and market specification. You simply plug it in without manual setup.

Is It Worth the Extra Cost?

That depends on how much you value steering wheel control convenience.

Some owners prioritize the ability to skip tracks and activate voice commands without taking their hands off the wheel, especially during spirited driving. For them, the extra $400-$500 investment makes sense.

Others find the touchscreen voice button or "Hey Siri" commands perfectly adequate and don't miss the steering wheel integration.

Aftermarket Head Units: The Big Screen Alternative

Aftermarket head units from manufacturers like Kenwood, Alpine, and Pioneer offer a different upgrade philosophy.

These solutions focus on larger screens, faster processors, and enhanced audio capabilities over factory integration.

What You Gain

Modern aftermarket units provide 7-10 inch touchscreen displays with significantly better resolution and responsiveness than factory screens.

You get wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, eliminating the USB cable requirement. The screens often feature capacitive touchscreens that respond more quickly to touch inputs.

Audio enthusiasts appreciate the enhanced pre-amplifier outputs, independent subwoofer controls, and advanced equalization capabilities unavailable on factory systems.

The units receive regular firmware updates that maintain CarPlay compatibility with new iPhone generations, while factory systems rarely get software updates after production.

What You Sacrifice

Performance Data Recorder functionality typically becomes unavailable or severely limited with aftermarket head units.

The touchscreen interface for adjusting Magnetic Ride Control settings, drive modes, and exhaust sound management becomes unavailable. You'll rely on hardware controls like the center console rotary knob instead.

Factory SiriusXM integration changes from the integrated menu system to smartphone app-based playback through CarPlay. It still works, just differently.

Some installations require additional adapter modules for steering wheel controls, backup camera integration, or factory amplifier compatibility. These extra components can add several hundred dollars to your total cost.

Installation Complexity

Aftermarket head unit installation demands more extensive dashboard disassembly than factory module swaps.

You'll remove factory trim panels, disconnect the factory radio, install aftermarket mounting brackets, and connect adapter harnesses that convert GM connectors to aftermarket standards.

Experienced installers need 3-4 hours. Less experienced DIYers should expect 8-10 hours for a complete installation including steering wheel control integration.

Professional installation at shops like Crutchfield's network typically requires a full-day appointment.

The Elliott Motorsports Dual System

Elliott Motorsports offers a 10.4-inch dual system Android head unit with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto designed for C7 models.

The "dual system" design means your factory functions remain working alongside the new display. You keep factory rear camera functions and compatibility with both automatic and manual transmissions.

The Performance Data Recorder does not function with this installation, however. For owners who don't use PDR, this limitation doesn't matter. For track day enthusiasts who rely on PDR for data logging, it's a dealbreaker.

The system includes climate control buttons, SIM card and USB ports for updates, and a significantly larger screen than factory options.

Cost Reality

Budget aftermarket units with basic CarPlay functionality start around $400-$500 for 6.5-7 inch displays.

Mid-range options with 9-10 inch screens from reputable manufacturers run $600-$1,000.

Premium models with advanced features and superior displays extend beyond $1,000-$1,500.

Professional installation adds $350-$600 for labor, plus potential extra components like steering wheel control adapters ($100-$200), backup camera interfaces ($150-$300), and amplifier integration modules ($200-$400).

Total installed costs typically range from $1,200 to $2,100 for mid-range setups.

Wireless CarPlay Adapters: The Budget Option

For owners seeking the cheapest path to wireless CarPlay, plug-in adapters like CPLAY2air and Carlinkit offer an interesting alternative.

These devices connect to your existing USB port and convert wired CarPlay to wireless operation through Bluetooth integration.

How It Works

The adapter plugs into your USB port and pairs with your iPhone via Bluetooth. Once set up, it automatically connects when you start your car, allowing you to keep your phone in your pocket.

Setup takes 15-30 minutes and involves unpairing your iPhone from the factory Bluetooth and CarPlay settings, then pairing with the adapter.

Most adapters include a passthrough USB port for phone charging, though modern iPhones typically maintain battery during typical drives without requiring charging.

The Reliability Question

User experiences with wireless adapters vary significantly.

Some owners report perfect operation over long periods. Others describe disconnection issues, overheating concerns, and inconsistent functionality.

Forum discussions on MacRumors indicate that some users experienced reliability problems with Carlinkit adapters, reporting units that ran hot and constantly disconnected after only five to six days of use.

The CPLAY2air generally receives more favorable reviews than budget alternatives, but even it isn't universally reliable across all vehicle and phone combinations.

Cost vs Convenience

At under $150, wireless adapters represent the most affordable entry point for CarPlay functionality.

The installation is completely reversible. If you're unsatisfied, you simply unplug the adapter without any changes to your vehicle.

The convenience advantage over wired CarPlay is less dramatic than you might expect, though. You still need to manage Bluetooth connectivity and occasionally troubleshoot connection issues.

For some owners, the modest improvement over simply plugging in a USB cable doesn't justify even the relatively low cost.

Understanding the HMI Module Replacement Process

The factory OEM upgrade process centers on accessing and replacing the HMI module, which requires navigating the C7's tight interior spaces.

Accessing the Driver's Side

The HMI module sits above the driver's side kick panel, surrounded by the parking brake lever, steering column supports, and numerous electrical connectors.

You'll start by removing the left side kick panel using trim removal tools to carefully pop the plastic clips without breaking them. Professional installation videos demonstrate the specific sequence of releases needed.

Once the panel is removed, you'll locate the HMI module secured behind additional trim components. The module features multiple colored connectors with release mechanisms.

Each connector requires adequate hand space to work, but the cramped location often forces you to work with your hands pressed against your body. This makes the fine motor control needed for proper connector engagement harder than it looks on YouTube.

The Radio Control Module Challenge

Most DIY installers report that accessing the Radio Control Module presents the installation's biggest physical challenge.

The module sits beneath the passenger side kick panel in a confined space with limited visibility. You'll remove multiple trim panels in a specific sequence, then navigate a complex series of plastic clip releases and bracket removals.

The specific release sequence differs from other vehicle platforms. Trying to force the module without identifying the proper release mechanisms can snap internal electrical connections or permanently bend the mounting bracket.

Understanding the clip design and release points requires either watching detailed video tutorials multiple times or having hands-on experience with C7 models. Written instructions alone often prove insufficient.

The USB Media Hub Swap

The USB Media Hub replacement represents the most accessible component of the three-part swap.

You'll remove the center console and armrest to access the hub, then disconnect the existing unit before installing the replacement.

While still requiring care with connector handling, this swap typically takes the least time and presents the fewest spatial challenges.

System Initialization

The vehicle must remain powered throughout the module replacement process.

Disconnecting the battery can cause system corruption requiring dealer-level reprogramming to resolve. This differs from many automotive DIY projects where battery disconnection prevents accidental short circuits.

Once installation completes, you'll test functionality with the engine running and wait for normal system startup before considering the job complete.

GPS Antenna Installation Considerations

Factory OEM upgrades typically include a GPS antenna, particularly for vehicles without factory navigation systems.

Proper antenna placement proves critical for reliable GPS performance.

Optimal Placement

Professional installers typically mount the GPS antenna beneath the dashboard near the driver's side left front speaker grille.

The antenna needs a clear line of sight to the sky, free from metallic blockages or other RF-emitting components. Placement beneath the carbon fiber hood works well because carbon fiber doesn't block GPS signals like metal would.

Some installations position the antenna on top of the dashboard beneath the windshield or in the engine bay, though underside positioning typically provides better performance.

Performance Impact

Poor antenna positioning results in weak GPS signal acquisition, slow navigation database loading, and unreliable real-time traffic information.

GPS signal dropouts can occur during freeway driving at high speeds or in areas with dense urban buildings that naturally weaken satellite signals.

Taking the time to properly position and test the antenna during installation saves significant frustration later.

Real-World Installation Challenges

Despite marketing materials suggesting straightforward installations, real-world C7 upgrades frequently run into practical obstacles.

Connector Seating Issues

The HMI module features multiple colored connectors that sometimes seat improperly on first installation attempts.

This results in partial system functionality where perhaps the touchscreen works but audio connectivity fails, or vice versa. Diagnosing this requires component removal and re-seating of the connectors.

After successfully navigating the extraction and installation process, discovering you need to repeat it for a connection issue can be frustrating.

Trim Panel Challenges

C7 trim panels use plastic clips that can break if forced or removed incorrectly.

Multiple forum users report accidentally cracking trim pieces during their first attempt at module access. Replacement trim panels add unexpected costs and delays to the project.

Professional installers emphasize watching detailed video tutorials that show the three-dimensional clip geometry rather than relying solely on written descriptions.

Working Position Difficulties

The physical positions required for module access can be genuinely uncomfortable.

You'll find yourself twisted into awkward positions with limited hand visibility, trying to perform precise connector work while nearly pressed against your body.

Taking breaks and approaching the work methodically helps prevent rushing and making costly mistakes.

Community Perspectives and Satisfaction Levels

The Corvette enthusiast community has built up substantial experience with various C7 CarPlay upgrade paths.

Factory OEM Upgrade Satisfaction

Overall sentiment across Corvette Forum and Reddit's r/Corvette community shows strong satisfaction with factory OEM upgrades.

Owners appreciate keeping all factory features while gaining modern smartphone integration. The $1,200-$1,600 total cost is perceived as reasonable value for essentially receiving a 2016+ infotainment experience.

Some community members express frustration at the premium pricing compared to buying components from GM dealers, though this pathway requires independent programming that most owners lack the tools and knowledge to accomplish.

Time investment receives mixed commentary. Experienced DIY enthusiasts report successful 2-3 hour installations, while less experienced installers frequently report 5-8 hour projects requiring multiple breaks.

Video Interface Adapter Responses

WAMS and NavTool video interface solutions generate notably split community responses.

Owners who appreciate minimal intervention and complete factory functionality preservation express strong satisfaction, particularly noting the remarkable installation simplicity.

These users emphasize that video interfaces provide about 85 percent of the functionality benefit at roughly 35 percent of the cost of factory upgrades.

Conversely, owners who find the separate nature of video interface integration conceptually unsatisfying or who run into wireless connectivity challenges report less favorable experiences.

Interestingly, wireless CarPlay connectivity issues plague not only aftermarket adapters but also some factory integrated systems across the broader GM lineup. Recent reports indicate that multiple 2024-2025 GM vehicle owners experience wireless CarPlay disconnections despite successful USB-based operation.

Aftermarket Head Unit Opinions

Aftermarket head unit feedback reveals the most split community opinions.

Owners who upgrade to reputable brands with clear understanding that they're replacing the factory experience with a modern aftermarket one generally report satisfaction, particularly if audio quality motivated their decision.

Owners who primarily sought CarPlay functionality and expected minimal trade-offs frequently express looking-back dissatisfaction, however. They report frustration at losing factory features, greater steering wheel control integration complexity, and reduced warranty coverage.

Several community members note that touchscreen responsiveness advantages, while technically superior, prove less significant in daily practice than expected. The additional time required to access certain factory functions through hardware controls somewhat cancels out the responsiveness benefit.

Feature Retention Comparison Chart

Understanding exactly which features you keep and lose with each upgrade path is essential for making an informed decision.

Performance Data Recorder

• Factory OEM Upgrade: Fully kept for 2015 models; fully kept for 2014 models
• WAMS Upgrade: Fully kept with proper setup
• Aftermarket Head Units: Typically lost or severely limited
• Wireless Adapters: Fully kept (no hardware changes)

Magnetic Ride Control

• Factory OEM Upgrade: Kept (2014 Z51 loses touchscreen control but keeps knob control)
• WAMS Upgrade: Fully kept with touchscreen control
• Aftermarket Head Units: Functionality kept but touchscreen control lost
• Wireless Adapters: Fully kept

Steering Wheel Controls

• Factory OEM Upgrade: Lost during CarPlay/Android Auto use; work for other functions
• WAMS Upgrade: Fully preserved even during projection
• Aftermarket Head Units: Require adapter modules; results vary by unit
• Wireless Adapters: Lost during CarPlay use

Factory Navigation

• Factory OEM Upgrade: Upgradeable to IO6 with 3D mapping and traffic
• WAMS Upgrade: Preserved and enhanced
• Aftermarket Head Units: Lost (replaced by CarPlay navigation)
• Wireless Adapters: Fully kept

Cost-Benefit Analysis by User Profile

Different C7 Z51 owners have different priorities that make specific upgrade paths more or less attractive.

The Track Day Enthusiast

If you regularly use your Performance Data Recorder for track sessions and data logging, factory OEM upgrades or WAMS solutions represent your only realistic options.

The $1,400-$2,400 total cost for professional installation preserves your critical PDR functionality while adding modern navigation through CarPlay.

For this user profile, aftermarket head units are essentially out of the question regardless of screen size or audio quality benefits.

The Daily Driver

If your C7 Z51 serves as your daily driver and you rarely or never use PDR, all upgrade paths become viable options.

Budget-conscious daily drivers might find the under-$150 wireless adapter perfectly adequate for adding wireless CarPlay to their commute.

Those wanting the best integrated experience should consider factory OEM upgrades, while drivers prioritizing the largest possible screen might lean toward aftermarket solutions.

The Audio Enthusiast

If superior audio quality and advanced sound processing matter as much as CarPlay functionality, aftermarket head units from premium manufacturers offer capabilities the factory system can't match.

The independent subwoofer outputs, advanced equalization controls, and enhanced pre-amplifier sections justify the $1,200-$2,100 total cost for this user profile.

The Budget-Conscious Owner

Owners primarily seeking basic CarPlay navigation and music streaming at the lowest possible cost should seriously consider wireless adapters or video interface solutions.

The sub-$500 total cost provides the essential functionality most owners actually use, even if the integration isn't as polished as factory solutions.

Long-Term Reliability and Future-Proofing

Considering the long-term viability of your chosen upgrade path matters, especially given that 2014-2015 C7s are now 10-11 years old.

Software Update Support

Factory OEM upgrades utilize genuine GM software components that receive updates through General Motors' official update system, ensuring ongoing compatibility with changing iPhone generations.

Aftermarket head units typically receive firmware updates through manufacturer channels. Established brands like Kenwood, Alpine, and Pioneer commit to ongoing support, while smaller manufacturers may stop support after several years.

Wireless adapters depend on their manufacturers for continued iOS compatibility. Track records vary significantly across brands.

Component Longevity

Genuine GM components in factory upgrades benefit from the same engineering and quality standards as factory-installed parts.

Aftermarket head units vary in build quality from budget to premium tiers. Reputable manufacturers generally provide 3-5 year realistic service lives before hardware becomes outdated.

Wireless adapters represent the highest risk for premature failure due to their compact design and heat generation during operation.

Installation Resources and Support

The availability of quality installation documentation significantly impacts DIY success rates.

YouTube Installation Guides

Multiple comprehensive YouTube channels have published detailed C7 CarPlay upgrade installation videos covering factory OEM procedures.

These visual guides provide step-by-step component removal, connector identification, and system initialization procedures that written instructions struggle to convey.

Professional installers emphasize watching videos multiple times before attempting installation to learn the trim removal sequences and module access patterns.

Manufacturer Technical Support

MVI includes written installation guides, vehicle-specific video tutorials, programming instructions for VIN setup, and technical support documentation addressing common issues.

The included technical support typically covers up to 15 minutes of SMS text-based assistance, recognizing that while installation is plug-and-play from a connectivity standpoint, physical access represents the genuine challenge.

WAMS similarly provides comprehensive documentation for their systems, including the specialized cluster programming procedures.

Community Forums

The Corvette Forum, Reddit's r/Corvette, and dedicated Facebook groups provide accessible resources for troubleshooting and advice from owners who've completed similar upgrades.

These community resources are particularly valuable when running into unexpected challenges not covered in official documentation.

Making Your Decision

Choosing the right C7 CarPlay upgrade for your Z51 comes down to assessing your priorities and budget.

If you value factory integration, feature preservation, and warranty maintenance above all else, the factory OEM upgrade path delivers the best overall experience despite the premium cost.

If steering wheel control during CarPlay use matters significantly to you, budget the additional $400-$500 for the WAMS cluster upgrade on top of the factory module swap.

If you want the biggest possible screen and superior audio quality while accepting some feature trade-offs, explore our selection of premium wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto head units from established manufacturers that provide excellent technology for owners willing to invest $1,200-$2,100.

If budget constraints dominate your decision and you simply want basic CarPlay functionality, wireless adapters or video interface solutions deliver essential features at a fraction of the cost.

No single solution works best for everyone. The "right" answer depends entirely on your specific situation, technical comfort level, and what you value most in your driving experience.

All these proven options mean no 2014-2015 C7 Z51 owner needs to accept an outdated infotainment experience simply because of their model year. Whether you're looking for Apple CarPlay & Android Auto modules or complete head unit replacements, there's a solution that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a C7 CarPlay upgrade void my Corvette's warranty?

Factory OEM upgrades using genuine GM components explicitly preserve vehicle warranty coverage since no changes occur outside factory specifications. Aftermarket head unit installations typically void warranty coverage for the infotainment system itself but not for unrelated vehicle systems. Wireless adapters don't affect warranty since they involve no vehicle changes.

Can I install a factory OEM CarPlay upgrade myself without professional help?

Yes, if you have moderate automotive technical skills and the right tools. Experienced DIY installers complete factory module swaps in 2-3 hours, while first-timers should budget 5-8 hours. The physical access challenges in tight footwell spaces present the main difficulty rather than complex technical procedures. Professional installation costs $300-$600 if you prefer to avoid the DIY route.

Does the Performance Data Recorder still work after upgrading to CarPlay?

It depends on which upgrade path you choose. Factory OEM upgrades and WAMS solutions fully keep PDR functionality for both 2014 and 2015 models. Aftermarket head units typically lose PDR capability since the recording functionality integrates with the factory radio module. Wireless adapters don't affect PDR at all since they don't modify factory hardware.

Why do 2014 Z51 models lose touchscreen suspension control after factory upgrades?

The Electronic Suspension Control Module differs between 2014 and 2015 model years, creating a compatibility limitation with the upgraded 2.5 HMI module. While you lose the touchscreen interface for adjusting Magnetic Ride Control settings, the functionality itself remains intact through the center console rotary knob. 2015 models and 2014 models without MRC don't experience this limitation.

Are wireless CarPlay adapters reliable enough for daily use?

Reliability varies significantly by brand and individual vehicle combinations. Some owners report perfect operation over long periods, while others experience disconnection issues and overheating problems. The CPLAY2air generally receives more favorable reviews than budget alternatives, but even it isn't universally reliable. At under $150, they're worth trying since installation is completely reversible if you're unsatisfied.

How much does professional installation cost for different upgrade types?

Factory OEM module upgrades typically cost $300-$600 for professional installation depending on location and installer experience. Aftermarket head unit installations run $500-$1,200 due to more extensive dashboard work and integration complexity. Video interface adapters rarely require professional installation due to their plug-and-play simplicity. Wireless adapters need no installation beyond initial setup.

Will I lose SiriusXM functionality with a CarPlay upgrade?

No, but how it works changes depending on your upgrade path. Factory OEM upgrades maintain full SiriusXM integration through the factory menu system. Aftermarket head units change SiriusXM from integrated menus to smartphone app-based playback through CarPlay, which still provides full functionality but through a different interface. Wireless adapters don't affect factory SiriusXM at all.