CarPlay for 2019 Crewmax

Anybody have luck or have recommendations on a new Stereo head unit to replace the stock non-JLB in order to get Carplay? Thanks

 

https://www.tundras.com/threads/fs-pioneer-avh-2550nex-android-auto-carplay-and-dvd.112903/

just one option out of many



https://www.tundras.com/forums/audio-video.30/

 

Thanks,

That’s the issue. Too many choices. Just looking for a decent (flush) not floating solution that keeps all factory functions. New only, won’t install myself. Wondering who has something they really like. I was checking out a Sony but parts not available.

 

I had my new head unit installed in March 2020. I wanted wireless Carplay/AndroidAuto and to also be able keep my steering wheels controls as well as be able to view vehicle systems. I shopped around for several brands and several models that had the features that I was looking for. I read reviews and watched videos. There were so many nice offerings then, I had to do research to make sure I’d be happy for a long time. It paid off as I’ve been very happy with the results.

I settled on a model that met my criteria, so I had a local shop order the parts and do the install. My setup required using iDatalink’s Maestro module to interface between the head unit and the truck’s OBD sustem (which provides vehicle system info like tire pressure, various system temps, and other system data). I also had new tweeters and door speakers (a pair of component 6x9’s and a pair of 6.5’s) to get more out of the head units capabilities sound-wise. I would like to add an amp and sub, but the funds are not available right now.

Many people have various levels of brand preferences, so evaluations and recommendations will be based on that, and that’s a good thing because they will really highlight the features of their preferred recommendations. The process is a personal one, and you have to determine how much you want to spend, and you have to determine which brands/models have the features and/or specifications that you want within the cost range.

I went with a Kenwood DNX996XR. It has a built-in amp, built in Garmin GPS, wireless Carplay/AndroidAuto, SiriusXM, CD/DVD player (that I’ve used only twice since I’ve had it since I can’t legally watch it while driving, nor would I want to), and it facilitates steering wheel controls and other OBD functions via the Maestro module, and more audio tuning features than I know fully what to do with. The backup camera feed can be pushed through it, but I prefer to keep mine in the rearview mirror. The sound is amazing, and I love my music. The touchscreen resolution is great, and I’ve never had an issue with glare (and though the touch screen has a few preset angles to select from that can easily be adjusted, I’ve never needed to adjust it after initially setting it). This is my first Kenwood, and it has not disappointed at all.

 

No, I actually gained functions that my OEM unit didn’t have. I had a basic non-JBL unit with bluetooth. Like this one:

 

Now that looks awesome! Do you mind me asking what model Pioneer that is and where you purchased it and where you had it installed? If you would please also a ballpark about how much?

You still have your steering wheel controls & back up camera functions? Any issues?

Sorry for the many questions but I really like that look.

Thank you!

 

That unit is the

$1,450 Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX PIONEER CAR DMHWT8600NEX Top Of The Line 10.1" BT CarPlay Amazon Alexa Built-in, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth - Floating Type Multimedia Receiver

Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX and it runs about $1500. You still need the Meastro RR and a couple of other adapters to retain steering wheel controls etc. He installed it himself. I'll find his install thread.

 

https://www.tundras.com/threads/new...600nex-into-a-2018-sr5-entune-non-jbl.100157/

 

Finally caved and bought one haha.

 

That looks awesome! Very clean.

 

Most of your questions got answered. I did the installation and created the linked thread that should allow just about anyone to install it.

Yes, everything works the way it should, but you have to use the Maestro adapter. I explain that part in detail because I had no idea what it was when I started planning.

My total cost for AV is right around $3500, and I am pleased.

Two of my “must haves” for any vehicle when I was shopping was leather interior and CarPlay with good sound.

The SR5 had neither, so I knew I’d have to do both. So, when the time came, I had no problem shelling out the cash; I’m still under what I would have paid for higher trim. And I tend to hang onto vehicles, so the upgrades help keep things fun.

 

@Tundra234, what brand(s) did you use to black out your dash and other chrome bits?

That looks great.

 

The 2 pieces of the dash kit are covered with vinyl. Everything else is sprayed with SEM Trim black.