Is Your Audi Q3 CarPlay Ready? A Model-Year Breakdown (2016-2023)

Is Your Audi Q3 CarPlay Ready? A Model-Year Breakdown (2016-2023)

Does Audi Q3 have Apple Carplay?

The great news about Apple CarPlay and the Audi Q3 is that all new Q3s (2023 and higher) come standard with Apple CarPlay, which is a seamless, hands-free system that pairs with an iPhone via a USB cable or Bluetooth.

Below is a compatibility analysis for different Q3 model years:

The new Audi Q3 (2020 and beyond):

  • CarPlay built-in: Enjoy all the CarPlay features, including navigation, music, podcasts, and hands-free calling.
  • Wireless or wired connection: Connect your iPhone with a USB cable for a stable connection, or go wireless for more comfort.
  • Easy setup: The connection process is simple. You can complete it in just a few steps.

How do I connect Apple CarPlay to my Audi Q3?

Below is a general step-by-step guide for connecting to Audi Apple CarPlay:

  1. On the Audi infotainment screen, find and select "Phone Apps". "Phone Apps' is the first option on the second line, below 'Radio' and to the left of 'Vehicle'.
  2. The message "Connect your iPhone to your car now to activate Apple CarPlay" will appear on your Audi infotainment screen: Audi_MMI_#". Select the "To the connected device" button at the end of the message.
  3. Refer to your iPhone. select "Settings" and then "Bluetooth". On the Bluetooth screen, select "Audi_MMI_#" from the list of connectable devices.
  4. A "Use CarPlay with Audi_MMI_#" message will pop up on your iPhone screen. Select 'Use CarPlay'. On the Audi Infotainment screen, select "Yes, Continue".
  5. On the Audi infotainment screen, notes about the use of the data will be displayed in which you can select "Yes, continue".

Now your new or used Audi is connected to Apple CarPlay.

You'll have access to all the same features as wired CarPlay, including:
  • Navigation
  • Music
  • Podcasts
  • Phone calls and messages (hands-free)
  • Siri voice commands

Audi Q3 2020 - 2022 models only offer wired connectivity, so if you want to upgrade to wireless, you'll need to purchase a wireless adapter, and we highly recommend Carlinkit 5.0!

Benefits of wireless CarPlay:

  • Convenience: No more fumbling with cables, especially when getting in and out of the car.
  • Clutter-free cabin: Keep your center console tidy and free of wires.
  • Improved aesthetics: A cleaner look for your Q3's interior.

How do I add CarPlay to my Audi Q3?

Older Audi Q3 models (pre-2019):

  • No built-in CarPlay: this depends on the configuration level and the infotainment system (MMI Plus or MIB 2).
  • Optional aftermarket modification options: some well-known brands offer aftermarket CarPlay modules for Audi Q3 models equipped with the MMI Plus or MIB 2 infotainment systems.
  • DIY: Some modules claim to support plug-and-play installation with minimal disassembly. This can still pose a challenge for those with limited technical knowledge.
  • Professional installation: this is the recommended option for most users as it ensures proper integration and avoids potential problems.

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