The Jeep Cherokee didn’t offer Apple CarPlay as a feature until 2020, but your UConnect-equipped model may qualify for an upgrade to add this feature.

Written by Sarah Gray

Reviewed by Melanie Reiff

Updated on Jan 31, 2024

Table of Contents

Does the 2017 Jeep Cherokee have Apple CarPlay?
How to add Apple CarPlay to a 2017 Jeep Cherokee
Which Jeep models have Apple CarPlay?
How to lower your Jeep Cherokee insurance costs

The 2017 Jeep Cherokee doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay. To add this feature, you’ll need to purchase an aftermarket modification.

It’s hard to find a car, truck, or SUV these days that doesn’t come equipped with Apple CarPlay at least somewhere in its trim lineup, but that wasn’t always the case. The Jeep Cherokee, for example, didn’t include Apple CarPlay among its standard features until the 2020 model year, so if you purchased your Cherokee before then, you’ll need to add that feature yourself.

Here to walk you through what you need to do to add Apple CarPlay to your SUVs app lineup is

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Does the 2017 Jeep Cherokee have Apple CarPlay?

No, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee does not have Apple CarPlay. This feature was added to the Cherokee’s standard feature lineup for the 2020 model year. Drivers of Cherokees produced before this redesign aren’t out of luck, though—you can still enjoy all your tunes and podcasts by connecting your iPhone via auxiliary cable or your Jeep’s Bluetooth system.

If you’re driving a Trailhawk, Limited, or Overland trim Cherokee, you may qualify for an upgrade to your UConnect system that will add this much-loved app to your Jeep’s software.

MORE:

How to find your Jeep radio code

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How to add Apple CarPlay to a 2017 Jeep Cherokee

Jeep’s customer-favorite UConnect system offers online upgrades you can easily access simply by inputting your Jeep’s VIN number. To find out if your Jeep Cherokee qualifies for an upgrade, just snag your VIN from the sticker on the inside of your driver’s side door frame, and type it into the field on the

UConnect website

If your Jeep Cherokee doesn’t qualify for an upgrade, you can still add Apple CarPlay to your SUV’s features using an aftermarket modification kit, like Crux’s ACPL adapter, the NINETOM wireless carplay retrofit kit, or a Cartizan aftermarket kit.

While buying these kits is simple, we recommend professional installation. Each kit includes steps for installation, but they all require partial disassembly of your Jeep’s dash and center console. Unless you’re already a car whiz, it’s probably best to leave this to the pros.

How to enable Apple CarPlay in a 2017 Jeep Cherokee

If you’re eligible for a UConnect upgrade, turning on Apple CarPlay once the upgrade is complete couldn’t be simpler. Just connect your smartphone via auxiliary cable or Bluetooth, and your UConnect system takes care of the rest.

If you’ve installed an aftermarket system, you’ll need to consult your kit’s instructions for steps to enable touchscreen or jog-mouse navigation.

MORE:

Are Jeeps expensive to maintain?

Which Jeep models have Apple CarPlay?

So what if you don’t currently have a Jeep? If you’re in the market for a Cherokee or any new or used Jeep, and you want to be sure Apple CarPlay is included among its standard features, we’ve got you covered. Check out the list below to see which models and years you should aim for to get Apple CarPlay standard in your Jeep.

2017–2022 Compass

2018–2022 Grand Cherokee, Renegade, and Wrangler

2020–2022 Cherokee, Gladiator

2022 Grand Wagoneer and Wagoneer

Any Jeep with a UConnect system mated to a 7-inch or larger touchscreen should be eligible for a free upgrade through the UConnect website to enable Apple CarPlay compatibility.

How to lower your Jeep Cherokee insurance costs

Apple CarPlay and other apps like it provide a lot more than just playlists to jam out to. These apps allow for the hands-free capabilities that make driving in today’s tech-heavy world so much safer. In fact, these apps contribute so much to increased driver safety that insurance providers often offer discounts to drivers whose vehicles feature them.

Even if your car isn’t equipped with Apple CarPlay, though, you can still find great savings on car insurance by shopping for coverage with

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