This 2013 BMW 520d came to our Dublin workshop for an Apple CarPlay upgrade.
The car already had its original BMW infotainment display, so the goal was to add modern smartphone connectivity without replacing the factory screen or changing the appearance of the dashboard.
For this installation, we fitted a CarPlay Box that integrates with the existing BMW system. The original display remains in place, but the driver now has access to Apple CarPlay through the factory screen.
Apple CarPlay without replacing the factory display
One of the main advantages of this type of BMW CarPlay retrofit is that the original dashboard can be retained.
Rather than installing a completely different head unit or aftermarket screen, the interface works with the existing BMW display. This keeps the interior looking much closer to the original factory design while adding features that were not available when the car was built.
Apple CarPlay gives the driver access to compatible apps for navigation, music, phone calls and messages through the vehicle’s infotainment system.
What we did
For this BMW 520d we:
- fitted an Apple CarPlay interface / CarPlay Box
- retained the original BMW factory display
- integrated the new system with the existing infotainment setup
- tested the CarPlay interface after installation
The finished result gives the car a useful technology upgrade without unnecessarily replacing the original screen.
Why retrofit Apple CarPlay to a BMW 5 Series?
Older BMW 5 Series models can still have excellent interiors and factory infotainment systems, but smartphone integration can feel limited compared with newer cars.
A CarPlay retrofit adds modern connectivity while allowing the existing screen and dashboard layout to remain in place.
For many owners, this offers a good balance between keeping the original BMW interior and gaining the convenience of modern navigation, music and communication apps.
BMW Apple CarPlay installation in Dublin
This installation was completed at our Dublin workshop on a 2013 BMW 520d.
BMW infotainment systems vary depending on model year and factory specification, so compatibility should always be checked before choosing a retrofit solution.
If you are looking to add Apple CarPlay to a BMW 5 Series, BMW 520d or another BMW model, contact Radio King with your vehicle year and model and we can check which upgrade options are suitable for your car.
