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Starting with the 2018 Audi Q5, Apple CarPlay is now a standard feature for the model across all trims. If you’re driving an Audi Q5 from 2017 or earlier, using CarPlay involves swapping out your OEM infotainment system for an aftermarket option.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have become wildly popular in recent years. The ability to fully integrate your smartphone with your car and use voice commands has been transformative for drivers. But this technology is only available in newer cars.

Starting with the 2018 Audi Q5, all models and trims have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. But if you drive an older Audi Q5—model years 2009 through 2017—using Apple CarPlay will involve buying a new aftermarket infotainment unit.

In this guide, we’re going to help you get Apple CarPlay working in your Audi Q5. Let’s get started!

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Does the 2018 Audi Q5 have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, the 2018 Audi Q5 has Apple CarPlay as standard across all trims. It was the first model year for the Q5 to integrate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, neither of which are available in 2009 through 2017 models.

Earlier Audi Q5 models had optional integrated navigation systems and, as of 2013, Bluetooth as well (Bluetooth is unavailable in 2009 to 2012 models). So if you’re driving a 2013 to 2017 model you can still stream music from your phone and have hands-free phone calls via Bluetooth.

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How to add Apple CarPlay to a 2017 Audi Q5

If you’re driving an older Q5, you’ll need to upgrade the infotainment system to utilize Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. This can be a complicated process that’s best left to a professional audio equipment installer.

It can get pricey, too—aftermarket infotainment systems compatible with your Audi Q5 that have Apple CarPlay functionality can cost anywhere from $300 to $800 (or even more!). Installations can add another $50 to $200 to that price tag.

Just like when you’re shopping for

car insurance

, it’s important to shop around. You’ll want to gather quotes from local car audio specialists and find out what equipment they already have in stock, versus what they’ll need to special-order for you.

All that said, upgrading the infotainment system can breathe new life into your Audi. It can drastically improve the driving experience with sophisticated touchscreen navigation and other modern features. There’s no harm in calling around to see who’s available in your area and how much it will end up costing.

How to enable Apple CarPlay in a 2018 Audi Q5

To use Apple CarPlay, you’ll need to connect your phone to your car. Don’t worry, it’s a super easy process!

You can plug your iPhone into the USB port and let the phone and car set everything up for you, or you can connect wirelessly by selecting “Phone Apps” on the infotainment screen.

You’ll see a message indicating the ID of your car (it should read “Audi_MMI_” and then a four-digit number). Now, on your iPhone, click “Settings” and then choose “Bluetooth”. Find the exact ID for your car and select it. When prompted on the phone to use CarPlay, press “Use CarPlay”.

Now, look at your infotainment screen. You’ll see a message asking if you’d like to use Apple CarPlay. Press “Continue”. And that’s it! Your Apple CarPlay should now be working correctly. If it isn’t, try connecting with USB first to see if that helps.

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Which Audi models have Apple CarPlay?

We thought we’d close this out with a little help for those of you who are looking to buy a new or used Audi and would like to find a model with Apple CarPlay. So, here’s the full list of Audi models that offer this feature:

2017+ Audi A3

2017+ Audi A4

2017+ Audi A5

2017+ Audi A6

2017+ Audi A7

2017+ Audi Q2

2017+ Audi Q7

2017+ Audi R8

2017+ Audi TT

2018+ Audi Q5

2019+ Audi A8

2019+ Audi e-tron

2019+ Audi Q8

2020+ Audi Q3

2021+ Audi e-tron Sportback

2022+ Audi e-tron GT

2022+ Audi Q4 e-tron

2022+ Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron

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