Lexus CarPlay Upgrade Guide (2014–2019)

Add Wireless Apple CarPlay or Upgrade to a Larger Touchscreen

If you own a 2014–2019 Lexus RX, NX, ES or UX and your vehicle does not have factory Apple CarPlay, you have two upgrade options:

Add CarPlay to your factory screen (CarPlay Interface)
Replace the original display with a larger OEM-fit touchscreen

This guide explains compatibility, installation, and which solution is best for your Lexus.

Can You Add Apple CarPlay to a 2014–2019 Lexus?

Yes.

Most 2014–2019 Lexus models with a factory display can be upgraded to support:

Wireless Apple CarPlay
Wired Apple CarPlay
Wireless Android Auto
Wired Android Auto

No dealer activation required.

Lexus Models That Support CarPlay Upgrade

The following models are commonly compatible:

Lexus Model	Model Years	Interface Option	Replacement Screen Option
Lexus RX 350 / RX 450h	2014–2019	Yes	Yes
Lexus NX 200t / NX 300	2014–2019	Yes	Yes
Lexus ES 350	2014–2019	Yes	Yes
Lexus UX Series	2014–2019	Yes	Yes

Compatibility depends on factory screen configuration.
If unsure, confirm before ordering.

Option 1 — Add CarPlay Without Replacing the Screen

Lexus CarPlay Interface Upgrade

This solution keeps your original Lexus screen and adds CarPlay functionality behind the factory system.

How It Works

Module connects behind OEM head unit
Audio routed through AUX channel
Switch between factory system and CarPlay
Uses original joystick or touchpad controls

Best For

Owners who want to keep OEM appearance
Drivers satisfied with current screen size
Budget-conscious upgrade

Advantages

Keeps factory display
Retains steering wheel controls
Maintains factory backup camera
Lower cost
OEM integration

Limitations

Screen size does not change
Control method remains joystick or touchpad

Option 2 — Replace Factory Screen With Larger Touchscreen

Lexus OEM-Fit Touchscreen Replacement

This upgrade replaces the original Lexus screen with a larger, vehicle-specific touchscreen display.

What You Get

10"–12.3" HD touchscreen
Built-in wireless Apple CarPlay
Built-in wireless Android Auto
Android-based smart system
App installation support

Best For

Drivers who dislike Lexus joystick or touchpad
Owners wanting touchscreen control
Customers who want a larger display
Drivers seeking modern infotainment system

Features Retained

Factory backup camera
Steering wheel controls
Most OEM functions

Interface vs Replacement Screen — Detailed Comparison

Feature	CarPlay Interface	Replacement Screen
Keeps original Lexus screen	Yes	No
Larger display	No	Yes
Touchscreen control	No	Yes
OEM look	100% OEM	OEM-fit modern
Installation time	1–2 hours	2–4 hours
Cost	Lower	Higher
Android apps support	No	Yes

Installation Overview

Interface Installation

Moderate difficulty
Head unit access required
No screen replacement
No coding required

Replacement Screen Installation

Moderate to advanced
Factory screen removed
Plug-and-play harness included
Professional installation recommended

Common Lexus CarPlay Upgrade Questions

Can I add CarPlay to Lexus RX 2016?

Yes. Both interface and replacement screen upgrades are available for RX 2014–2019 models.

How do I get rid of Lexus joystick control?

Replace the factory screen with a touchscreen upgrade.

Will my backup camera still work?

Yes, both upgrade options retain the original camera.

Does this affect factory Bluetooth?

No. OEM Bluetooth remains functional.

Can I switch back to factory system?

Yes, interface modules allow switching between systems.

Which Lexus CarPlay Upgrade Should You Choose?

Choose CarPlay Interface if:

You want to keep factory look
You are satisfied with current screen size
You want lower cost upgrade

Choose Replacement Touchscreen if:

You want a larger screen
You prefer touchscreen control
You want modern infotainment system

Final Recommendation

If your Lexus was built between 2014 and 2019 and lacks factory Apple CarPlay, upgrading is possible without replacing the entire infotainment system.

The best option depends on whether you: