Where does the hardware component of CarPlay reside

[HankB]

The subject says it all. Does Apple CarPlay‘s vehicle hardware/software component reside in the radio, or is it located in some other under dash box? I’m looking to replace the 7“ factory radio, but don’t want to lose the navigation provided by CarPlay. Our JT is a 22 Sport S without uconnect capability.

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[LouisvEarlleJT]

It’s in the radio. Swap to an 8.4 and you’ll have the same.

You should still have Bluetooth connectivity on a ‘22 though, yeah the map doesn’t pop up on the screen but Siri still reads the directions

 

[WambliSka]

All the CarPlay capabilities are in the radio. Just make sure you get a unit that supports CarPlay on BT and you're good to go on THAT respect. One of the best convenience "upgrades" I got going from an Overland '22 to a Mojave X '26 was the radio/screen update with BT CarPlay. God I HATED having to hardwire my iPhone to a radio in 2025.

That being said I don't know what happens to UConnect capabilities, which my Overland had but you say your Sports does not, when you replace the radio. You probably lose features like remote start and vehicle diagnostics but this is strictly speculation in my part. Now I'm curious...

Of note, "Radios" are NOT just entertainment units anymore. They are complex and highly integrated communications devices for onboard computer(s) and user interfaces to many vehicle functions including things like climate controls, security systems and a way of configuring many vehicle operating parameters. They are also the way the manufacturer gets OTA (Over The Air) software updates to your vehicle. Just a few years back this was a small part of manufactures coms between the cars and the mother ship. Today the story is very different. One of the most recent OTAs I've seen was 8Gb PER CAR!!!! Translates to major software upgrades to the vehicle operating system.

Replacing them requires a LOT of research and I for one do not feel comfortable at all doing so. Besides the primary reason of the Mojave being a better vehicle than the Overland for my uses and lifestyle, upgrading technology was one of the top reasons for my recent vehicle upgrade.

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