Does the 2016 Honda Odyssey Have Apple CarPlay? Everything You Need to Know

If you're driving a 2016 Honda Odyssey and wondering about Apple CarPlay, here's what you need to know.

The 2016 Honda Odyssey does not have factory Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, regardless of trim level. Honda didn't add native CarPlay support to the Odyssey until the completely redesigned 2018 model year. However, you can add CarPlay functionality to your 2016 Odyssey through several proven aftermarket solutions that work with your existing screen.

Key Takeaway

• The 2016 Honda Odyssey lacks factory Apple CarPlay on all trim levels
• Honda introduced CarPlay to the Odyssey lineup starting with the 2018 model year
• You can add CarPlay to your 2016 Odyssey through aftermarket video interfaces or complete infotainment upgrades
• Aftermarket solutions range from $400 to $800 depending on features and wireless capability
• Installation goes from simple plug-and-play to moderate dashboard work
• Professional installation typically adds $100-300 to the total cost

Why the 2016 Odyssey Doesn't Have CarPlay

The 2016 Honda Odyssey represents the final year of the fourth generation minivan. When Honda designed this system, Apple CarPlay was still relatively new to the automotive world.

The Odyssey's infotainment architecture used what Honda called the Display Audio system. Higher trim levels featured an eight-inch touchscreen with a dual-screen setup that looked pretty good for its time.

But the hardware simply wasn't built to support CarPlay's requirements.

Honda started rolling out CarPlay across its lineup in 2016, beginning with the Civic and Accord. The Odyssey had to wait until its complete redesign in 2018 to get the feature.

This timing left 2016 Odyssey owners in an awkward spot – their vehicles were modern in most ways, but missing a feature that was quickly becoming standard.

When Did Honda Add CarPlay to the Odyssey?

Apple CarPlay became available in the Honda Odyssey starting with the 2018 model year. The fifth-generation Odyssey launched in May 2018 with a completely redesigned infotainment system built around an eight-inch Display Audio touchscreen.

CarPlay came standard on EX trim levels and above, supporting both wired and wireless connections depending on the specific model year.

By 2025, the latest Odyssey models feature a nine-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features across the lineup. The system also includes wireless phone charging and multiple USB-C ports throughout the cabin.

This shows how quickly smartphone integration went from optional to essential in family vehicles.

Understanding Your Aftermarket Options

The good news? Several companies have developed reliable solutions for adding CarPlay to the 2016 Odyssey. These options fall into three main categories based on features and price.

Basic Video Interface Solutions

NavTool offers a plug-and-play video interface system designed for the 2014-2017 Odyssey dual-screen setup. This solution adds HDMI inputs that connect to your iPhone through an adapter.

The NavTool system plugs directly into your factory screen controller using original equipment connectors. You don't need to cut any wires.

Installation involves:

• Unplugging the factory screen connector
• Inserting NavTool's harness
• Plugging the factory connector into the supplied harness

They rate this as a two out of ten on their difficulty scale.

The system costs between $400 and $600 depending on accessories. Audio routes through your existing AUX input or Bluetooth connection.

This approach works well if you primarily want basic CarPlay without wireless capability.

Mid-Range Wireless Solutions

GROM Audio's VLite VT2 system represents the middle ground. At around $560, it provides both wired and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto support.

The VLite works as a standalone computing module that connects to your factory stereo and maintains full integration with existing controls. You get wireless connectivity without the complexity of the full VLine system.

Installation requires removing your factory radio to access the back panel connections. You'll need to route several cables including video, USB, and reverse camera wires.

Most DIY installers complete this in 2-3 hours. Professional installation typically costs $150-250.

The VLite appeals to owners who value wireless convenience while maintaining a reasonable budget.

Premium Android Integration

The GROM VLine VL2 sits at the top of the aftermarket options at around $680. This system replaces your infotainment processing while keeping your factory screen and controls.

The VLine runs Android 12 with a Quad Core processor, 2GB RAM, and 16GB storage. That's substantially more powerful than your factory system.

Beyond CarPlay and Android Auto, you get full Google Play Store access. This means you can install Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, Netflix, and other apps directly on the system.

The VLine can function independently of your smartphone. You can download offline maps or stream content through its built-in WiFi even when your phone isn't connected.

Installation takes 3-4 hours for experienced DIY installers. GROM provides detailed video guides for the Odyssey specifically.

This option makes sense if you want full infotainment capabilities beyond basic smartphone mirroring.

Installation Process and Difficulty

Installing aftermarket CarPlay in your 2016 Odyssey varies in difficulty depending on which solution you choose.

NavTool Installation

The NavTool system lives up to its plug-and-play marketing for the most part. The actual harness connection is straightforward.

However, you still need to access the area behind your center stack. This means removing trim panels around the radio and screen.

You'll also need to route cables for HDMI, USB, and audio connections. Getting these routed cleanly without visible wires requires some planning.

The reverse camera integration requires connecting a specific wire to ensure your backup camera still activates automatically when you shift into reverse.

Most owners with basic mechanical skills complete this in 1-2 hours. The hardest part is often getting trim panels off without breaking clips.

GROM VLine and VLite Installation

Installing GROM systems requires more involved dashboard work. You'll need to fully remove your factory radio head unit.

Start by:

• Removing trim panels around your center stack
• Taking out several Phillips head screws holding the radio assembly
• Pulling the radio forward to expose the connectors and wiring at the rear

The GROM systems connect through a vehicle-specific harness that routes to your glove box where you mount the main module. You'll connect the video display cable, USB connectors, reverse camera wire, and audio input.

Finding and connecting the reverse camera wire correctly is important. If this connection isn't made properly, your backup camera won't function automatically.

Cable routing takes the most time. You want everything hidden and organized, which can require some creativity threading cables through the dashboard structure.

GROM provides detailed installation videos showing each step for the Odyssey specifically. These videos make the process much more manageable.

Professional Installation Costs

Professional installation costs vary based on your location and the shop's specialization.

NavTool installation typically runs $100-200 in labor since it's relatively quick. Total installed cost lands between $500-800.

GROM VLine or VLite installation usually costs $150-250 in labor. Combined with equipment cost, you're looking at $710-930 total.

Dealerships may charge $200-400 for labor, though many decline to install aftermarket systems that aren't from approved vendors.

Independent car audio shops often provide the best value. They have experience with these specific systems and charge hourly rates between $75-150.

What You Get With Each Solution

Understanding what each aftermarket option actually delivers helps you make the right choice for your needs.

NavTool Features

The NavTool system adds wired CarPlay and Android Auto through HDMI connections. You'll use the included Lightning-to-HDMI adapter for your iPhone.

Your factory controls continue working normally. The system adds video inputs for backup cameras or other video sources.

You can switch between factory functions and CarPlay by pressing buttons on your factory radio. The interface isn't as smooth as factory CarPlay, but it gets the job done.

Audio quality matches what you'd get through your AUX input or Bluetooth connection. Video quality depends on your adapter and cable quality.

The system keeps all factory features including climate controls, radio, and vehicle information displays.

VLite Capabilities

GROM's VLite adds wireless CarPlay and Android Auto along with wired USB connections. This removes the daily hassle of plugging in cables.

The system maintains full compatibility with your factory features and controls. Your steering wheel buttons, touchscreen, and all original functions continue working.

You get Bluetooth A2DP music streaming and WiFi connectivity for firmware updates. The processing power is adequate for smooth CarPlay and Android Auto operation.

The VLite focuses specifically on smartphone integration rather than trying to replace your entire infotainment system. This targeted approach keeps things simple while delivering the features most people actually want.

VLine Full Features

The VLine VL2 is essentially a complete Android computer that integrates with your factory hardware. It runs Android 12 with full Google Play Store access.

You can install any compatible Android app including full navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze, Sygic, and HereWeGo. These run natively on the system even without your phone connected.

Music streaming apps like Spotify, Pandora, and YouTube work independently. You can download offline maps for navigation in areas with poor cell coverage.

The system supports both wireless and wired CarPlay and Android Auto connections. The Quad Core processor with 2GB RAM handles multitasking smoothly.

Some users have added features like 4G LTE WiFi hotspot capability. The VLine serves as a standalone infotainment platform that happens to also support CarPlay.

This flexibility appeals to tech enthusiasts who want maximum options.

Real User Experiences

Online forums and YouTube reviews provide helpful insight into how these systems perform in daily use.

NavTool Feedback

Users generally report that NavTool systems work as advertised once properly configured. The hardware performs reliably for basic CarPlay functions.

However, some installers mention that the "plug and play" description understates the work involved. Getting clean cable routing and proper configuration requires patience.

One common complaint involves customer support. Several users report difficulty getting technical help when troubleshooting initial setup issues.

The general consensus seems to be that NavTool delivers good value for the price, but expect to solve some problems independently during installation.

GROM System Reviews

GROM products get consistently positive feedback, particularly for their detailed documentation and support resources.

Users appreciate the detailed YouTube installation videos that walk through each step for specific vehicle models. This makes DIY installation much less intimidating.

Early VLine users reported some performance glitches, but firmware updates appear to have resolved most issues. Recent reviews highlight smooth operation and reliable connectivity.

The VLite gets praise for hitting the sweet spot between features and complexity. Users who primarily want wireless CarPlay without full Android functionality find it ideal.

GROM's responsive technical support stands out in user reviews. The company appears willing to troubleshoot issues and provide guidance when customers encounter problems.

Common Issues Across Systems

Connection stability occasionally causes frustration with wireless CarPlay implementations. Some users report that wireless connections take 30 seconds to several minutes to establish when starting the vehicle.

Wired solutions like basic NavTool avoid this issue since HDMI and USB connections are direct and immediate.

Navigation app performance generates mixed feedback. Some users report GPS accuracy issues or lag when using apps like Waze through CarPlay on the 2016 Odyssey's hardware.

These issues may stem from the factory system's limited processing power rather than the aftermarket solution itself. The 2016 infotainment system simply wasn't designed to handle modern navigation app demands.

Audio sync problems occasionally appear but usually resolve with a system power cycle.

Performance Expectations

Setting realistic expectations helps avoid disappointment with aftermarket CarPlay solutions.

Processing Limitations

The 2016 Odyssey's factory infotainment system has limited RAM and processing power compared to modern systems. This affects performance regardless of which aftermarket solution you install.

You may notice slight delays when switching between apps or when the system processes complex route calculations. Voice commands through Siri or Google Assistant might feel less responsive than in newer vehicles with native CarPlay.

These limitations are most noticeable if you frequently switch between functions or run demanding navigation apps during complex routing.

For basic daily use like playing music and following navigation directions, performance is generally fine.

Display Quality

Your factory touchscreen wasn't built for modern touch interface standards. The display response to touch input may feel slightly slower than today's touchscreens.

This matters most for users who frequently interact with the display while driving. If you primarily use voice commands, the slower touch response is less of an issue.

Video quality through systems like NavTool depends partly on the HDMI adapter and cable quality. Some users report that CarPlay's interface looks slightly less crisp than on factory implementations.

The VLine and VLite systems generally provide better display quality since they handle video processing more thoroughly.

Connection Reliability

Wired connections through NavTool are rock solid. HDMI and USB connections establish instantly and maintain stable operation.

Wireless systems occasionally struggle with initial connection when you first start the vehicle. Quality varies between different products and iPhone models.

Some wireless adapters connect consistently in under 30 seconds. Others take several minutes or require manual intervention.

iOS updates sometimes create temporary compatibility challenges as Apple updates CarPlay protocols. Aftermarket manufacturers typically release firmware updates to address these issues.

Warranty Considerations

Many owners worry about how aftermarket modifications affect their vehicle warranty.

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers from blanket warranty denials based on aftermarket parts. Honda cannot deny warranty coverage on unrelated systems simply because you installed an aftermarket CarPlay system.

However, the dealership can deny warranty service on the infotainment system itself if they can show that your aftermarket modification caused the specific problem.

Both NavTool and GROM design their systems to avoid cutting factory wires or permanently modifying original equipment. The plug-and-play approach using factory connectors minimizes warranty concerns.

If warranty service becomes necessary, you can remove the aftermarket system and restore the factory configuration relatively easily.

For owners beyond the factory warranty period, these concerns are largely moot. Once your three-year, 36,000-mile warranty expires, aftermarket modifications carry fewer risks.

Always maintain documentation of your aftermarket installation. If issues arise, having installation records helps show that the modification was performed properly.

Cost Comparison: Aftermarket vs. Newer Vehicle

Some owners consider whether upgrading to a 2018 or newer Odyssey makes more financial sense than installing aftermarket CarPlay.

Used 2018-2020 Odyssey models typically cost $3,000-5,000 more than comparable 2016 models with similar mileage. This price difference reflects the generational update and factory CarPlay capability.

Aftermarket CarPlay installation, even with professional labor, costs $700-1,000 total. From a purely financial perspective, the aftermarket route saves significant money.

However, newer Odyssey models offer additional benefits beyond CarPlay. The 2018 redesign introduced Honda Sensing driver assistance technologies, improved fuel economy through transmission updates, and refined interior design.

For families prioritizing modern safety systems and full technology integration, the newer model may justify the price premium.

For owners satisfied with their 2016's reliability and primarily wanting CarPlay functionality, aftermarket solutions deliver excellent value.

Making Your Decision

Your ideal solution depends on several factors specific to your situation and preferences.

Choose NavTool If:

• Budget is your primary concern
• You're comfortable with wired connections
• Basic CarPlay functionality meets your needs
• You have some DIY mechanical experience
• You want the simplest installation process

Choose VLite If:

• Wireless connectivity is important to you
• You want reliable CarPlay and Android Auto
• You're willing to invest moderately for better features
• You prefer a balanced approach between cost and capability
• Professional installation is an acceptable expense

Choose VLine If:

• You want maximum features and customization
• Standalone Android functionality appeals to you
• You plan to keep your Odyssey long-term
• You're comfortable with more complex installation
• Budget allows for the premium option

Consider Waiting If:

• You plan to upgrade vehicles within the next year
• Your budget is very tight right now
• You rarely use smartphone features while driving
• You're satisfied with Bluetooth audio streaming

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add wireless CarPlay to my 2016 Honda Odyssey?

Yes, both the GROM VLite and VLine systems support wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. These systems connect to your iPhone via WiFi and Bluetooth, removing the need for daily cable connections. The VLite costs around $560 while the VLine runs about $680, both before installation costs.

Will aftermarket CarPlay void my Honda warranty?

No, adding aftermarket CarPlay through plug-and-play systems like NavTool or GROM should not void your warranty under federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protections. These systems don't cut factory wires or permanently modify original equipment. However, Honda can deny warranty claims on the infotainment system itself if they prove the modification caused a specific failure.

How much does it cost to add CarPlay to a 2016 Odyssey?

Total costs range from $500-800 for NavTool systems to $710-930 for GROM systems when including professional installation. Equipment costs run $400-680 depending on the solution, while professional installation adds $100-300 in labor. DIY installation removes labor costs but requires 1-4 hours of work depending on system complexity.

Is the 2016 Odyssey CarPlay upgrade difficult to install?

Installation difficulty varies by system. NavTool rates as easiest at 2/10 difficulty, requiring basic trim removal and cable routing. GROM VLite and VLine systems require moderate skills including factory radio removal and multiple cable connections. Most mechanically inclined owners successfully complete DIY installations using manufacturer video guides, though professional installation is available for those preferring expert help.

Does aftermarket CarPlay work with all 2016 Odyssey trim levels?

Yes, aftermarket CarPlay solutions work with all 2016 Honda Odyssey trim levels including LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Touring Elite. The specific installation process may vary slightly based on whether your model has the single-screen or dual-screen Display Audio system, but manufacturers provide vehicle-specific harnesses and instructions for different configurations.

What's better: aftermarket CarPlay or upgrading to a 2018 Odyssey?

From a pure cost perspective, aftermarket CarPlay saves $2,000-4,000 compared to upgrading to a 2018+ Odyssey with factory CarPlay. However, newer models include additional benefits like Honda Sensing safety features, improved fuel economy, and refined interior design. If you primarily want CarPlay and are satisfied with your 2016's reliability, aftermarket solutions deliver excellent value.

Can I still use my backup camera with aftermarket CarPlay?

Yes, all major aftermarket CarPlay systems for the 2016 Odyssey maintain full backup camera functionality when properly installed. The installation requires connecting a reverse camera wire to the aftermarket module, which triggers the camera display when you shift into reverse. This connection is straightforward when following manufacturer installation guides.

Do aftermarket systems support both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes, NavTool, GROM VLite, and GROM VLine all support both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows both iPhone and Android users in your household to connect their devices. The systems automatically detect which type of device is connected and display the appropriate interface.