What Year Does Honda Have Apple CarPlay? Complete Model Year Breakdown

If you're shopping for a used Honda or trying to figure out if your current car supports Apple CarPlay, you're probably wondering exactly when Honda started including this feature. The short answer is 2016, but there's more to the story depending on which Honda model you own or want to buy.

Apple CarPlay changed how we use our phones while driving, and Honda was one of the early adopters. But not every Honda from 2016 onward has CarPlay, and the availability changed as Honda rolled out the technology across different models and trim levels over the years.

Key Takeaway

• Honda introduced Apple CarPlay in the 2016 model year with the Accord and Civic leading the way
• Not all 2016 models got CarPlay — you needed at least the EX trim on most vehicles
• The CR-V, Pilot, and Ridgeline got CarPlay in 2017, expanding availability to SUVs and trucks
• By 2018-2019, most Honda models offered CarPlay, including the Fit, Odyssey, HR-V, Passport, Insight, and Clarity
• Wireless CarPlay started appearing in 2022 on higher trims, with broader rollout in 2024-2025 models
• Older 2018-2022 Accords can get a dealer-installed wireless upgrade for around $200-250 total
• Base LX trims historically lacked CarPlay until recent model years made it standard across most trim levels

When Did Honda First Add Apple CarPlay?

Honda announced in July 2015 that Apple CarPlay would debut on the 2016 Honda Accord and 2016 Honda Civic. This made Honda one of the first mainstream manufacturers to add Apple's smartphone integration technology.

The timing made sense. Apple had launched CarPlay in 2014, and by 2016, people wanted their familiar iPhone apps and interfaces in their cars. Honda recognized that buyers didn't want clunky manufacturer systems anymore.

But here's the catch many people miss: not every 2016 Honda got CarPlay.

The 2016 Civic included CarPlay only on EX, EX-T, EX-L, and Touring trims. If you bought the base LX or Sport trim, you were out of luck. The 2016 Accord followed the same pattern, limiting CarPlay to EX, EX-L, and Touring models.

This trim-level restriction was Honda's way of using technology as an upsell. You had to step up from the base model to get CarPlay, which meant spending several thousand dollars more. Pretty frustrating for budget-conscious buyers who wanted modern tech without breaking the bank.

The implementation in these early models was wired only. You needed to connect your iPhone with a Lightning cable to use CarPlay. No wireless option existed yet, though the wired connection did charge your phone while you drove.

Which Honda Models Got CarPlay Each Year?

Understanding exactly which Honda models support Apple CarPlay requires looking at the rollout year by year. Here's how Honda expanded CarPlay across its lineup.

2016: The Starting Point

The 2016 Honda Civic and 2016 Honda Accord were the first models to get Apple CarPlay. Both required at least the EX trim level, meaning base model buyers missed out entirely.

These early versions featured 7-inch touchscreens and required wired connections through USB ports. The interface was straightforward but limited compared to what we see in newer models today.

2017: Expanding to SUVs and Trucks

Honda made a big push in 2017 by adding CarPlay to its most popular utility vehicles. The 2017 CR-V launched with CarPlay capability in April 2017, starting at $24,045 for models with the feature.

The 2017 Pilot and 2017 Ridgeline also joined the CarPlay family. This was significant because Honda was bringing smartphone integration to family haulers and truck buyers, not just sedan customers.

Like the 2016 sedans, these models typically required mid-level or higher trims to access CarPlay. The EX trim and above generally included the feature across these vehicle lines.

2018-2019: Nearly Universal Coverage

By 2018, Honda had made CarPlay available across most of its lineup. The 2018 Fit received CarPlay on select trims, bringing the feature to Honda's entry-level compact car. The 2018 Odyssey got it too, making family road trips more connected.

The 2019 model year saw even broader adoption. The 2019 HR-V added CarPlay on Sport and higher trims. The 2019 Clarity Fuel Cell and 2019 Insight brought CarPlay to Honda's eco-friendly models. The 2019 Passport, Honda's adventure-focused SUV, launched with CarPlay standard.

At this point, if you were buying a new Honda, chances were excellent you could get Apple CarPlay, assuming you selected the right trim level.

2020-2023: Refinement and Wireless Options

During this period, Honda continued making CarPlay more widely available while starting to introduce wireless connectivity on higher trims.

The 2022 Civic was notable for being one of the first Honda models to offer wireless CarPlay, though initially only on the Touring trim. This meant you could finally use CarPlay without fumbling for cables every time you got in the car.

Honda also launched a retrofit program for 2018-2022 Accord owners, allowing them to upgrade to wireless CarPlay through a dealer-installed software update. This showed Honda's commitment to keeping existing customers happy rather than forcing them to buy new vehicles for the latest tech.

2024-2025: Wireless Becomes Standard

By 2024 and 2025, wireless Apple CarPlay has become much more common across Honda's lineup. The 2025 Accord includes wireless CarPlay as standard on hybrid trims, while the 2025 Civic offers it on Sport Touring Hybrid and higher trims.

Even better, many 2024-2025 Honda models now include CarPlay as standard equipment across all trim levels, not just higher-end variants. The technology has shifted from being a premium feature to an expected baseline.

Understanding Trim Level Availability

One of the biggest sources of confusion when researching Honda CarPlay compatibility is understanding which trim levels include the feature. This has changed significantly over the years.

In 2016 and 2017, Honda positioned CarPlay as a mid-level feature. The base LX trims almost never included it. You typically needed to step up to at least the EX trim to get CarPlay.

A 2016 Civic buyer choosing the base LX saved money upfront but gave up CarPlay entirely. Upgrading to the EX trim added several thousand dollars but included CarPlay along with other technology and comfort features.

This created a real problem for budget-conscious shoppers. Do you spend more to get CarPlay, or do you save money and live without it?

As CarPlay became more mainstream, Honda started pushing it down the trim levels. By 2024, the Accord included CarPlay even on base LX models. The technology was no longer a luxury feature but an expected standard.

However, wireless CarPlay still tends to be reserved for higher trims. You might get wired CarPlay on a mid-level trim but need to upgrade to Sport Touring or Touring variants to get wireless capability.

The 2025 Civic is a good example. Standard wired CarPlay comes on all trims, but wireless CarPlay is exclusive to the Sport Touring Hybrid trim, which also includes a 9-inch touchscreen and Google built-in features.

When shopping for used Hondas, always verify the specific trim level and whether it included CarPlay. Just because a model year generally supports CarPlay doesn't mean every trim level does.

Wired vs Wireless CarPlay in Honda Vehicles

The evolution from wired to wireless CarPlay represents one of the biggest improvements in Honda's smartphone integration over the past decade.

How Wired CarPlay Works

Early Honda models with CarPlay required a physical Lightning cable connection. You plugged the USB end into a port on your dashboard or center console, connected your iPhone, and CarPlay activated automatically.

The wired approach had advantages. It was reliable, with none of the connection drops that can happen with wireless systems. It also charged your phone while you drove, which was essential for navigation-heavy trips that would otherwise drain your battery.

But wired connections were also annoying. You had to remember to bring your cable. If you used a thick case, the cable might not fit properly. And you always had a wire dangling in your car, cluttering up your center console.

Some owners experienced connection issues with certain cables or iPhone models. The iPhone 15's switch to USB-C created new compatibility headaches for owners of older Hondas designed for Lightning connectors.

The Wireless Revolution

Wireless CarPlay eliminates all the cable hassle. When you get in your Honda, CarPlay connects automatically via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi as long as your iPhone is with you.

Honda started offering wireless CarPlay on the 2022 Civic Touring trim. By 2024-2025, wireless connectivity became standard on higher trims across most Honda models.

The 2025 Accord features wireless CarPlay as standard on all hybrid trims. The 2025 CR-V includes it on Sport-L Hybrid and higher variants with 9-inch touchscreens.

There are some trade-offs with wireless CarPlay. It uses more iPhone battery since it's not charging via cable, though many newer Hondas include wireless charging pads to compensate. There's also slightly more delay compared to wired connections, though most people never notice.

Some people point out that wireless CarPlay doesn't support lossless audio formats, while wired connections do. For everyday listening with Spotify or Apple Music, this doesn't matter. But if you're particular about audio quality, it's worth knowing.

The Dealer-Installed Wireless Upgrade

In a move that surprised many owners, Honda announced in 2023-2024 that eligible 2018-2022 Accord models could get wireless CarPlay through a dealer-installed software update.

The upgrade costs $112 for the software, plus dealer labor charges that typically range from $60-150 depending on the dealership. Total cost usually lands around $200-250.

For Honda Certified Pre-Owned vehicles from those years, the wireless upgrade comes installed at no extra charge. This added value to Honda's CPO program and showed the company's commitment to extending the tech lifespan of existing vehicles.

The update takes about 30-60 minutes. Dealers download the software onto a USB drive and install it into your car's infotainment system. No hardware changes are needed since the necessary wireless components were already built into those Accord models.

Some owners wondered if aftermarket wireless CarPlay adapters would be a better deal. These dongles plug into USB ports and enable wireless CarPlay for $50-100. While they work, the official Honda upgrade is generally more reliable and integrated.

Real-World Compatibility Issues

While Honda's CarPlay implementation generally works well, real-world users have reported some frustrations over the years. Understanding these issues can help you troubleshoot problems or make smarter buying decisions.

iPhone Model Compatibility

Some owners have reported that newer iPhone models don't always play nicely with older Honda head units. Several 2016-2017 Accord owners mentioned that their CarPlay worked perfectly with iPhone 11 but started having problems after upgrading to iPhone 15 Pro.

The issues ranged from CarPlay refusing to activate despite a working USB connection, to the system rebooting mid-drive, to steering wheel controls becoming unresponsive.

One user noted their 2017 Accord Hybrid's CarPlay would "soft crash and reboot" after about 10 minutes of use with newer iOS versions. Turning the car off and on would temporarily fix it, but the issue would return on the next drive.

Some people think these problems come from compatibility issues between the iPhone 15 Pro's newer wireless chips and older Honda infotainment hardware designed around iPhone models from 2016-2019.

Cable Quality Matters

For wired CarPlay, cable quality makes a huge difference. Many Honda owners discovered that not all Lightning cables are created equal.

Some third-party cables work for a while but then start causing connection drops after a few months. The iPhone 15's switch to USB-C created new headaches since older Hondas have USB-A ports designed for Lightning cables, requiring adapters that add another potential failure point.

Many owners recommended sticking with official Apple cables or high-quality third-party options from brands like Anker. The $5 gas station cable might work initially but often causes problems within weeks.

One issue some owners reported was the head unit freezing entirely during longer drives of 10+ minutes when using certain cables. Replacing the cable usually fixed it.

The Alexa App Conflict

In a strange twist, some Honda Civic owners discovered that Amazon's Alexa app on their iPhone would trigger unintended voice control interactions while using CarPlay.

Their vehicles' voice control systems would activate on their own, displaying Siri icons and switching audio to phone-call quality. Music volume would suddenly spike, creating dangerous distractions.

One owner traced the problem to the Alexa app and solved it by uninstalling Alexa entirely. Others found that disabling Alexa's location tracking helped, though it didn't completely eliminate the issue.

This showed how smartphone apps running in the background can sometimes interfere with vehicle systems in unexpected ways, and how difficult these issues can be to fix without community forums sharing solutions.

Solutions and Workarounds

Most Honda CarPlay issues can be resolved through some combination of these steps:

• Forget the car in iPhone CarPlay settings and re-pair
• Try a different high-quality cable
• Update to the latest iOS version
• Perform a factory reset of the head unit (though this erases settings)
• Visit a Honda dealer for potential firmware updates

For persistent issues with newer iPhones on older Honda models, some owners have opted for aftermarket wireless CarPlay adapters as a workaround. While not officially supported by Honda, these devices sometimes work better with the latest phones than the aging factory head units do.

How to Set Up Apple CarPlay in Your Honda

Getting CarPlay running in your Honda is straightforward once you know the steps. The process differs slightly between wired and wireless implementations.

Setting Up Wired CarPlay

For Hondas with wired-only CarPlay, follow these steps:

1. Locate the USB port designated for smartphone connectivity (usually on the dashboard near the infotainment screen or inside the center console)
2. Connect your iPhone using a Lightning cable (or USB-C for iPhone 15 and newer)
3. Tap "Allow" on your iPhone when prompted
4. Select "Always enable" on your Honda's infotainment screen
5. Press the "Apple CarPlay" button on your display to launch the interface

The CarPlay screen replaces your Honda's normal infotainment display with Apple's interface, showing icons for Phone, Messages, Maps, Music, Podcasts, and other CarPlay-compatible apps.

You can interact with CarPlay through the touchscreen or by using Siri voice commands via the steering wheel talk button.

Setting Up Wireless CarPlay

For newer Hondas with wireless CarPlay, the process is even simpler:

1. Navigate to your Honda's infotainment settings and find the Apple CarPlay or Bluetooth section
2. Select "Add Device"
3. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay and select "Available Cars"
4. Select your Honda to pair the devices
5. CarPlay will automatically connect whenever you start your Honda and your iPhone is nearby

Some Honda models with wireless charging pads can charge your iPhone wirelessly while using wireless CarPlay, giving you a completely cable-free experience.

Using CarPlay Features

Once connected, you can access several key functions:

Navigation: Apple Maps provides turn-by-turn directions and traffic updates. You can start navigation via voice by saying "Hey Siri, navigate to [destination]."

Phone Calls: Make and receive calls entirely through voice commands or touchscreen. The audio plays through your Honda's speakers.

Messaging: Send and receive text messages via Siri. CarPlay reads incoming messages aloud and lets you respond verbally.

Music: Access Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, and other audio apps. Control playback via voice, touchscreen, or steering wheel controls.

Remember that not every app on your iPhone works with CarPlay. Apple restricts CarPlay to categories designed for automotive use to minimize driver distraction.

Shopping for Used Hondas with CarPlay

If you're in the market for a used Honda and want Apple CarPlay, here's what you need to know to make a smart purchase.

Minimum Model Years by Vehicle

For the Honda Civic and Accord, target 2016 or newer models. These were the first to get CarPlay, though you'll need at least the EX trim on 2016 models.

For the CR-V, Pilot, and Ridgeline, look at 2017 or newer. These models added CarPlay a year after the sedans.

For the Fit and Odyssey, 2018 or newer gets you CarPlay capability. The HR-V, Passport, Insight, and Clarity all added CarPlay in 2019.

Keep in mind these are general guidelines. Always verify the specific vehicle's trim level before buying, as base models often lacked CarPlay even in years when it was available on higher trims.

Checking Compatibility Before Purchase

When looking at a used Honda listing, don't just assume it has CarPlay based on the model year. Here's how to verify:

• Ask the seller specifically which trim level the vehicle is
• Test the vehicle in person if possible - bring your iPhone and cable to try connecting
• Check the infotainment screen size (most Honda models with CarPlay feature 7-inch or larger touchscreens)
• Review the vehicle's window sticker or original purchase documentation if available

Considering Older Models Without CarPlay

If you find a great deal on a 2014-2015 Honda that doesn't have factory CarPlay, don't automatically dismiss it. You have options for adding smartphone integration.

Aftermarket head units from brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, and Sony offer CarPlay functionality and can replace your Honda's factory radio. Professional installation typically costs $200-500 depending on your vehicle.

At Car Tech Studio, we offer premium Android head units for many Honda models that add wireless CarPlay and Android Auto along with larger touchscreens and modern features. For example, our Honda Civic 2006-2011 head units transform the interior with 9-inch or 10.1-inch displays.

These aftermarket solutions often provide better functionality than Honda's factory CarPlay implementation, with larger screens, wireless connectivity, and additional features like split-screen multitasking.

The main consideration is whether the cost of the aftermarket upgrade plus the vehicle price still keeps you within budget compared to buying a newer Honda with factory CarPlay.

Warranty and Certified Pre-Owned Considerations

If you're considering a Honda Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, remember that eligible 2018-2022 Accord models receive the wireless CarPlay upgrade at no additional charge. This adds significant value if you were planning to pay for that upgrade anyway.

CPO Hondas also come with extended warranties that may cover infotainment system issues. If you buy a used Honda with CarPlay and encounter connectivity problems later, warranty coverage can save you expensive dealer repair bills.

For non-CPO used Hondas, consider whether any remaining factory warranty coverage extends to the infotainment system. Honda's typical warranty is 3 years/36,000 miles for basic coverage, so a 2021 Honda purchased in 2024 might still have some protection.

The Future of CarPlay in Honda Vehicles

Honda's commitment to Apple CarPlay continues to evolve with each model year. Understanding where the technology is headed can inform your purchasing decisions.

Wireless Becomes the Standard

The trend is clear: wireless CarPlay is becoming standard equipment rather than a premium feature. While 2022-2023 models often restricted wireless to top trims, 2024-2025 Hondas are pushing wireless capability further down the trim levels.

The 2025 Accord includes wireless CarPlay across all hybrid variants, not just the highest-end models. This means buyers don't have to choose between affordability and modern connectivity.

We expect this trend to continue. Within a few years, wired-only CarPlay will likely be rare even on base Honda models.

Larger Screens and Better Integration

Honda is also upgrading the screens that display CarPlay. The 2024 Accord Sport Touring Hybrid features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a huge improvement over the 7-inch displays in 2016 models.

Larger screens make CarPlay more usable, especially for navigation where you want to see more of the map at once. They also enable split-screen functionality in some cases, letting you view CarPlay alongside vehicle information.

Honda is also improving integration with vehicle systems. Newer models blend CarPlay more seamlessly with Honda's native infotainment, making it easier to switch between CarPlay apps and vehicle settings like climate control.

Google Built-In Creates Competition

Interestingly, Honda is now offering Google built-in technology alongside Apple CarPlay in some 2024-2025 models. This gives Android users a native experience similar to what iPhone users get with CarPlay.

The 2025 Civic Sport Touring Hybrid includes both wireless CarPlay and Google built-in with Google Assistant and Google Maps integration. This dual approach recognizes that smartphone users are split between iPhone and Android.

For consumers, this competition is positive. It means Honda can't rely solely on one smartphone platform and must ensure both work well to satisfy all customers.

Next-Generation CarPlay

Apple announced plans for next-generation CarPlay that would take over multiple vehicle screens and control more vehicle functions like climate and radio. While initially targeting luxury brands, Honda is on the list of manufacturers committed to supporting this technology.

The rollout has been delayed, with Apple removing its planned late 2024 release date from its website in January 2025. When it eventually arrives, next-generation CarPlay could fundamentally change how Honda integrates smartphone technology into vehicles.

Rather than CarPlay being a separate layer on top of Honda's systems, it could become the primary interface for many vehicle functions. This would be a dramatic shift from current implementations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the first Honda model year to get Apple CarPlay?

The 2016 model year was when Honda first introduced Apple CarPlay, debuting on the 2016 Honda Accord and 2016 Honda Civic. However, CarPlay was only available on EX trim levels and above, not on base models. If you're shopping for used Hondas and want CarPlay, 2016 is your starting point for the Civic and Accord specifically.

Do all 2016 Honda Civics have Apple CarPlay?

No, not all 2016 Civics have Apple CarPlay. Only the EX, EX-T, EX-L, and Touring trims included the feature. The base LX and Sport trims from 2016 do not support CarPlay at all, even as an add-on option. When shopping for a 2016 Civic, you must verify it's at least the EX trim to ensure CarPlay capability.

When did the Honda CR-V get Apple CarPlay?

The Honda CR-V received Apple CarPlay starting with the 2017 model year, launching in April 2017. This was one year after the Civic and Accord got CarPlay. The 2017 CR-V typically included CarPlay across most trim levels, making it more widely available than on the initial 2016 sedan offerings.

Can I add Apple CarPlay to an older Honda without it?

Yes, you can add CarPlay to older Hondas through aftermarket solutions. The most common option is replacing your factory head unit with an aftermarket unit from brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, or Sony that includes CarPlay functionality. Another option is purchasing a premium Android head unit from Car Tech Studio, which offers wireless CarPlay along with larger touchscreens and additional features for many Honda models.

Does the 2018-2022 Honda Accord wireless CarPlay upgrade work on all trims?

The dealer-installed wireless CarPlay upgrade is available for approximately 630,000 eligible 2018-2022 Honda Accord models. Honda hasn't specified exact trim restrictions, but the upgrade requires that your Accord originally had wired CarPlay capability. The software update costs $112 plus dealer labor (typically $60-150), and comes pre-installed at no charge on Honda Certified Pre-Owned Accords from those years.

What's the difference between wired and wireless CarPlay in Honda vehicles?

Wired CarPlay requires a Lightning cable (or USB-C for iPhone 15+) physically connecting your iPhone to the vehicle's USB port, which charges your phone and provides reliable connectivity. Wireless CarPlay connects automatically via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi without cables, but uses more iPhone battery unless you have a wireless charging pad. Wireless implementations started appearing in 2022 Hondas on higher trims and have become more widespread in 2024-2025 models.

Why isn't my iPhone connecting to CarPlay in my Honda?

Common causes include using a low-quality or damaged cable, iPhone model compatibility issues (especially iPhone 15 with older Honda head units), or software conflicts. Try these solutions: use an official Apple cable or high-quality alternative, forget the car in your iPhone's CarPlay settings and re-pair, update to the latest iOS version, or perform a head unit factory reset. If problems persist, visit your Honda dealer for potential firmware updates.

Do all 2025 Honda models have wireless Apple CarPlay?

Not all 2025 Hondas include wireless CarPlay across every trim level. The 2025 Accord offers wireless CarPlay standard on all hybrid trims, and the 2025 Civic includes it on Sport Touring Hybrid and higher variants. Lower trim levels on some models may still have wired-only CarPlay. Always verify the specific trim level you're considering to confirm whether it has wireless capability.