As a proud owner of a Peugeot 208, I understand the importance of making the driving experience more seamless and enjoyable. One way to achieve this is by installing Apple CarPlay in your vehicle. In this article, we will delve into the process of getting Apple CarPlay set up in your Peugeot 208.
An Overview of Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay, a feature developed by Apple Inc., serves as an extension of your iPhone onto your car’s infotainment system. By connecting your iPhone to the vehicle using a USB cable or wirelessly, you can access selected features such as maps, messages, music and more via touch or voice commands through Siri. With its user-friendly interface, it has become a popular choice among drivers who want to stay connected while on the road without compromising safety.
Compatibility with Peugeot 208 Models
The compatibility of Apple CarPlay may vary depending on the model year of your Peugeot 208. For instance, newer models come equipped with CarPlay technology, ready for you to enjoy after purchase. However, if your Peugeot 208 is an older model, fret not! You can still retrofit your vehicle with the necessary components to support and enjoy Apple CarPlay.
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Enabling Apple CarPlay in your Peugeot 208
If your vehicle comes pre-equipped with Apple CarPlay functionality, enabling it is relatively simple. Follow these straightforward steps:
- Ensure that your iPhone is compatible with Apple CarPlay. iPhones running iOS 7.1 or later are likely to work with most cars.
- Start your Peugeot 208 and ensure the infotainment unit is powered on.
- Connect your iPhone to the vehicle through a Lightning cable or wirelessly, depending on your car’s capabilities. Wired connections are often more stable and reliable.
- If prompted, unlock your iPhone and allow CarPlay access when the message “Unlock to Use Accessories” appears.
- The Apple CarPlay icon should now appear on your Peugeot 208’s infotainment screen. Tap it to launch the interface.
And there you have it! You can now start enjoying Apple CarPlay by accessing its features with touch or voice commands via Siri.
Retrofitting Your Older Peugeot 208 Models for Apple CarPlay
Even if your Peugeot 208 does not come pre-equipped with Apple CarPlay functionality, it is possible to retrofit your vehicle with the necessary equipment. Here’s a general step-by-step process of retrofitting:
Selecting an Aftermarket Head Unit
To install Apple CarPlay in an older model that does not come equipped with the feature, you’ll need to replace the existing head unit. It’s essential to select an aftermarket head unit compatible with both your Peugeot 208’s dashboard and Apple CarPlay. Some popular brands that offer CarPlay-compatible devices include Pioneer, Alpine, Kenwood, and Sony.
Preparing for Installation
Before installation, make sure you have all the required items. These may include:
- The chosen aftermarket head unit
- Vehicle-specific wiring harness
- Antenna adapter (if applicable)
- Installation brackets
- iOS device with Lightning cable or wireless capabilities
- Electrical tape and/or heat shrink tubing for securing connections
- Trim removal tool
You may also want to consult an online forum or community of Peugeot 208 enthusiasts if you need advice or help on the installation process. They could provide specific tips and recommendations based on their experiences.
Installing the Aftermarket Apple CarPlay-Compatible Head Unit
As a rule of thumb, it’s advisable to have a professional technician install your new head unit as improper installation can cause irreversible damage or void warranty. However, if you’re confident in your skills and decide to proceed independently, always exercise utmost caution following these general steps:
- Disconnect your car’s battery to prevent accidental electrical shorts.
- Utilize a trim removal tool to remove the existing head unit carefully. Be gentle while removing trims and panels to avoid breakage.
- Unplug any wiring connected to the back of the old head unit.
- Attach the vehicle-specific harness to the appropriate connection points on the new head unit. The user manual should detail this process.
- Connect the antenna adapter if needed to ensure continued access to radio signals.
- Attach the mounting brackets to secure the new head unit within the dashboard.
- Gently slide the new head unit into place and reconnect any removed panels and trim pieces.
- Reconnect the car battery, and power up your Peugeot 208 to test your newly installed Apple CarPlay.
Retrofitting a compatible aftermarket head unit successfully enables Apple CarPlay in your older Peugeot 208; you can now enjoy the potential benefits derived from its functionality while on the road.
About the author
Marcus Brown is editor-in-chief of The FatMech and is a mechanic with ten years' experience based in London, UK. Having worked for major dealerships for many years, Marcus now works for a local independent garage and has experience working on nearly every make and model of car. Marcus also has a passion for writing and teaching, which is where the idea for The FatMech came from. In his spare time, Marcus enjoys playing golf, doing home renovations and gardening. He lives just outside London with his wife and son.