How to Get Apple CarPlay on a 2018 Mazda CX-5

You can get Apple CarPlay installed on a 2018 Mazda CX-5 at your local Mazda dealership.
Written by Olivia Rose
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
The 2018
Mazda CX-5
does not have Apple CarPlay by default—but you can ask your local Mazda dealer to install it. 

Does the 2018 Mazda CX-5 have Apple CarPlay?

No: Apple CarPlay
No: Android Auto
No: WiFi hotspot
Unfortunately, Mazda Apple CarPlay did not become standard until the 2019 model year. 
Instead, here’s what you do get with the 2018 CX-5:
  • 7.0-inch infotainment screen (not a touchscreen)
  • Two USB ports 
  • Four-speaker stereo (in the base trim) 

How to add Apple CarPlay to a 2018 Mazda CX-5

It is possible to add this feature to a 2018 CX-5 on any trim level. It’s not a DIY job—the easiest way to get Apple CarPlay installed is to have your local Mazda dealer do the job via retrofit kit. 
When you go to the dealership, you can also have them update the MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system on a used car or new vehicles with the most recent firmware or software update—and they will also install 2.1-amp USB ports in your system, thanks to their stock of Mazda parts. 
Note: Because the 2018 model is older, you won’t be able to connect to CarPlay using Bluetooth. 

How to enable Apple CarPlay in a 2018 Mazda CX-5

Once Apple CarPlay has been installed in your 2018 Mazda CX-5, you must activate it.
  • Siri: Make sure that Siri is enabled on your iPhone. 
  • Start: Start the car.
  • Connect: Connect your phone to your infotainment system with a lightning to USB cable.
  • Prompts: Apple CarPlay will start up automatically—follow the prompts.
  • Enable: Click “Allow” on the pop on your iPhone.
After the process is complete, your car will be able to access information from your phone without you needing to unlock the phone screen first. When your iPhone can fully interface with your car’s infotainment system, you can listen to your playlist easily and avoid phone-related distraction. Win-win! 
Note that Mazda recommends updating your iPhone to the latest iOS version for best Apple CarPlay performance.

Which Mazda models have Apple CarPlay? 

Although the ‘18 CX-5 does not come with Apple CarPlay, other Mazda models do. 
Here is a comprehensive list of all Mazda vehicles with Apple CarPlay:
The 2024 Mazda CX-90, 2023 Mazda3 hatchback and Mazda3 sedan, and 2023 Mazda CX-50 all include CarPlay—as do most new Mazda cars.
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