Not every car rolls off the production line ready for the future. If your vehicle came with a stock infotainment system that lacks Android Auto, you’re not alone. Fortunately, retrofitting Android Auto for stock systems is a growing trend that allows you to bring modern tech into your car—without replacing the entire head unit. Whether you have a plain trim model, a luxury sedan, or even an older SUV, this guide covers how you can retrofit Android Auto into your current system with little hassle and most benefit.
What Does "Retrofit Android Auto for Stock Systems" Mean?
Retrofitting involves re-engineering a pre-existing car system to add in fresh technology it was never initially planned for. For use on Android Auto, it entails incorporating additional hardware or software upgrades which enable your standard issue infotainment system to interface with your Android smartphone.
As opposed to plug-and-play USB dongles (which are only effective if your vehicle already has Android Auto support), retrofitting usually involves going one step further—putting in a module or interface that plays nicely with your vehicle's original screen, buttons, and audio system.
Why Retrofit Rather Than Replace?
1. Maintain Your Factory Appearance
Factory-standard infotainment systems are designed to fit in with your car's dashboard both cosmetically and functionally. Retrofitting maintains everything looking original and integrated, which is perfect for design-oriented drivers.
2. Less Costly Than Head Unit Replacement
Upgrades to head units using aftermarkets can range from ₹30,000–₹80,000 or higher, excluding labor. Retrofit kits usually range between ₹7,000–₹25,000, a good middle price.
3. Preserve Car Functions
New factory systems are commonly integrated with climate control, parking sensors, steering wheel controls, and reverse cameras. Head unit replacement can damage or restrict these. Retrofit preserves those functions.
Types of Retrofit Solutions
Retrofitting Android Auto for factory systems usually entails one of the following:
1. Multimedia Interface Modules
These are hardware packages installed behind the dashboard. They directly connect to the factory screen and integrate Android Auto (and usually Apple CarPlay) without altering the original display. You use Android Auto through the original touchscreen or rotary controls.
Best for: Vehicles with screens but without Android Auto capability.
Advantages: Smooth integration; OEM-quality performance.
Cons: Installation may be technical.
2. OEM Upgrade Kits
A few manufacturers or third-party firms provide OEM-style kits containing all the parts required to retrofit Android Auto just like the factory would have done. This could involve upgraded USB hubs, firmware flashes, or even screen replacements.
Best suited for: Popular vehicles such as VW, BMW, Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, etc.
Pros: Factory-level integration.
Cons: More expensive and might need dealership activation.
3. Wireless Android Auto Retrofit Adapters
If your stock system supports wired Android Auto but not wireless, you can retrofit wireless capability using an adapter. These plug-and-play devices eliminate the need for a USB cable.
Ideal for: Cars with Android Auto but only via cable.
Pros: Easy to install, cable-free experience.
Cons: Limited to cars with Android Auto already enabled.
4. Custom Firmware Unlocks
Certain car models are capable of Android Auto being activated by unlocking the concealed software capabilities through coding utilities such as OBDeleven, BimmerCode, or Forscan. This is prevalent in cars where hardware is already present but disabled through software.
Best suited for: Enthusiasts who own compatible models.
Advantages: No additional hardware involved.
Disadvantages: Potentially dangerous if not done correctly; could invalidate warranty.
Retrofit Process: What to Expect
Here is a general overview of how multimedia module retrofit installations of Android Auto work:
Step 1: Select a Compatible Kit
Pick a retrofit kit that is made specifically for your vehicle make, model, and model year. Universal kits can be used but might require setup.
Step 2: Remove the Dashboard Trim
Open up the back of the infotainment unit with care by unscrewing and removing dashboard trim panels. Depending on the car, this requires different steps, which might be tool-intensive like using plastic trim removers.
Step 3: Connect the Interface
Install the Android Auto interface into your vehicle's LVDS (video), power, and CAN bus inputs. Plugs-and-play installation is easily achieved with kits that include provided harnesses with no need for cutting wires.
Step 4: Route the Microphone (Optional)
If the kit has voice command support, you might need to install an external microphone for Google Assistant.
Step 5: Test and Mount
Switch on the car and test the Android Auto functionality. After everything is working, reassemble the dashboard and mount the module in a secure position.
Features to Look for in a Retrofit Kit
✅ Touchscreen Compatibility: Make sure Android Auto is responsive on your original screen.
✅ Steering Wheel Control Support: Maintain volume and call functionality.
✅ Voice Control: Internal or external microphone support for Google Assistant.
✅ Audio Integration: Clean pass-through to your factory audio system.
✅ Rear Camera Support: Prevent retrofit from interfering with your reverse camera.
✅ Wireless Option: Where available, adds futureproofing.
✅ Update Capability: Support to receive firmware updates for stability and new features.
Compatible Car Brands & Models
Most cars driving on the roads today can be retrofitted with Android Auto. Most supported models are:
Volkswagen Polo/Vento/Tiguan (pre-2020)
BMW F-Series (with iDrive 4 or 5)
Hyundai Verna/Creta (pre-2021)
Honda City/WR-V (older models)
Ford EcoSport/Endeavour
Toyota Fortuner/Innova Crysta
Always confirm compatibility with the retrofit provider before buying.
Retrofit Brands & Kit Providers
Some well-known brands and retailers selling genuine Android Auto retrofit kits are:
RoadTop – Famous for BMW and Mercedes kits.
Naviks – Sells plug-and-play multimedia interfaces.
Unique Auto Developments (UAD) – OEM-like kits for European vehicles.
Carlinkit – Also produces wireless modules for original factory head units.
AliExpress/Amazon Sellers – Cost-saving alternatives (use care and check reviews).
For Indian car models, local retrofitters or websites such as CarHatke, Drivermod, and MotorBerg typically provide handpicked solutions.
Cost Breakdown
Component Approximate Cost (INR)
Retrofit Module (Wired) ₹7,000 – ₹15,000
Retrofit Module (Wireless) ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
Professional Installation (Optional) ₹1,500 – ₹4,000
OEM Parts (USB Hub, Harness) ₹2,000 – ₹5,000
Total cost is between ₹10,000 and ₹30,000, based on complexity and features.
Final Thoughts
Retrofitting Android Auto into a standard infotainment system is one of the best upgrades you can do to your vehicle. It adds contemporary connectivity, safer hands-free use, and access to vital apps such as Google Maps, Spotify, and WhatsApp—without tearing your dashboard apart or spending a fortune.
With so many retrofit solutions on the market for various budgets and requirements, there's probably a kit for your car. Either do it yourself or pay a professional to install it, retrofitting Android Auto is a wise investment in terms of functionality and resale value.