BMW 1 Series F20 CarPlay Retrofit Installation Review — Cost
Service Price
$40–80
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
BMW 1 Series F20 Android head unit upgrade: Approx. $370-$450. Get a 12-inch screen with CarPlay/Android Auto for better navigation and camera views.
Upgrade Your BMW 1 Series F20 Infotainment System
If you're a BMW 1 Series F20 owner feeling limited by your stock infotainment screen, there's a compelling upgrade available: a 12-inch Android head unit that brings modern smartphone integration to your dashboard. This review covers the process, benefits, and what to expect when retrofitting CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities into your F20.
Before and After: A Dramatic Transformation
The original BMW 1 Series F20 infotainment system, while functional, often suffers from a small screen size and limited connectivity. Navigation can be clunky, and smartphone integration is often restricted or non-existent. This upgrade replaces the factory unit with a significantly larger 12-inch display, offering a vastly improved visual experience. The new screen supports touch functionality, making navigation and app control intuitive and easy. A key advantage is the Picture-in-Picture (PIP) capability, allowing you to view navigation apps like TMAP or Kakao Navi alongside the reverse camera feed, enhancing both convenience and safety during parking.
Seamless Smartphone Integration with CarPlay and Android Auto
For iPhone users, Apple CarPlay provides a familiar interface on the larger screen, allowing seamless access to navigation apps (Kakao Navi, Naver Maps, TMAP), music streaming services (Melon, Genie Music), and more, all controllable via touch or voice commands. Android users benefit from Android Auto, which offers a similar integrated experience with popular navigation and media apps. This ensures you're always using the latest app versions without needing to update your phone's software specifically for the car. The upgrade also enhances the reverse camera view, displaying it on the expansive 12-inch screen, which significantly reduces blind spots and makes parking maneuvers safer and easier. The touch interface makes switching between camera views or adjusting settings effortless.
Installation Process:
- Careful removal of the original BMW 1 Series F20 factory head unit.
- Installation of the new 12-inch Android head unit, ensuring secure fitment and proper wiring connections.
- Integration with existing vehicle systems, including reverse camera and steering wheel controls.
- Testing of all functions, including CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, audio, and camera displays.
The installation was performed at 'Today's Car' in Incheon, South Korea. While specific pricing varies based on the chosen unit and installation scope, similar 12-inch CarPlay/Android Auto monitor replacements in South Korea can range from approximately 500,000 KRW (Korean Won), which is roughly equivalent to $370-$450 USD based on current exchange rates, though actual US market pricing may differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does Android head unit or CarPlay installation cost for a BMW 1 Series F20?
In South Korea, the installation cost for a 12-inch Android head unit or CarPlay upgrade for a BMW 1 Series F20 typically starts around 500,000 KRW (approx. $370-$450 USD). US market pricing may vary.
Q. How long does Android head unit installation take on a BMW 1 Series F20?
The installation process for an Android head unit on a BMW 1 Series F20 usually takes a few hours. For durability, ensure the unit is professionally installed and consider occasional software updates for optimal performance.
Q. Is a CarPlay or Android Auto retrofit worth it for a BMW 1 Series F20?
A CarPlay or Android Auto retrofit is highly recommended for BMW 1 Series F20 owners seeking modern navigation and smartphone integration. It significantly enhances the driving experience by providing a larger, touch-enabled screen with access to familiar apps.
Q. How is an Android head unit installed in a BMW 1 Series F20?
Installation involves carefully removing the factory head unit, connecting the new 12-inch Android unit with appropriate wiring harnesses, and integrating it with existing vehicle systems like the reverse camera. Finally, all functions are tested to ensure proper operation.
Q. What is the difference between an Android head unit and a factory infotainment system for a BMW 1 Series F20?
The primary difference is screen size and functionality; the Android head unit offers a much larger, touch-enabled 12-inch display with seamless CarPlay/Android Auto integration, unlike the smaller, often non-touch factory system. This upgrade provides a modern, user-friendly interface for navigation and media.
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