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Mazda works differently from every other brand. On MZD Connect cars, CarPlay is not added with a plug-in dongle. It is added by replacing the USB media hub in the centre console with a different part. It is a hardware swap, and there is a firmware requirement most sellers bury.
Where Mazda stands
| Roughly 2014 to 2020, MZD Connect | No CarPlay from the factory on many cars, but it can be added by swapping the media hub for Mazda part TK78-66-9U0C |
|---|---|
| Later cars with CarPlay already fitted | Wired CarPlay works, so an ordinary dongle converts it to wireless |
Reported model coverage for the hub swap includes Mazda3, Mazda6, CX-3, CX-5, CX-9 and MX-5, with the exact year range varying by model.
The firmware requirement nobody mentions
The hub swap only works if your MZD Connect firmware is version 70.00.100 or above. Buy the hardware for a car on older firmware and it will not work until the system is updated.
Check your firmware version in the infotainment settings before ordering anything. This is the single most common reason these kits get returned.
Two things to watch when buying
- Many kits are wireless CarPlay only and do not support Android Auto. Listings often mention this in small print after a title implying both. If you are an Android user, read carefully.
- Most kits sold are aftermarket versions of the Mazda part rather than genuine Mazda stock. They generally work, but you are not buying dealer hardware at dealer prices, and quality varies between listings that look identical.
Not sure what your car has?
Three questions, about 30 seconds, and you will know whether an adapter helps before you spend anything.
Check my car →The 30 second test
Plug your iPhone into the USB port with a proper data cable. If CarPlay appears on the screen, you have wired CarPlay and a dongle will make it wireless. If nothing happens, your car does not have CarPlay and no dongle can add it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add CarPlay to a Mazda with a dongle?
Not on MZD Connect cars that lack it. Mazda adds CarPlay by replacing the USB media hub with part TK78-66-9U0C. A hardware swap, not a plug-in adapter.
Is there a firmware requirement?
Yes, and it catches people out. MZD Connect firmware must be version 70.00.100 or above before the hub will work.
Do Mazda retrofit kits support Android Auto?
Many do not. A large share support wireless CarPlay only, with Android Auto excluded in the small print.
If your car does have wired CarPlay, these are the adapters we rate. Prices move, so check before buying.
CarlinKit Mini Ultra 3 →OTTOCAST Mini Cube 3.0 →AAWireless TWO+ →Other brands: Toyota · Honda · Ford · Volkswagen · Subaru · Hyundai & Kia