Adding CarPlay to 981 Cayman - options

4672 Views 64 Replies 17 Participants Last post by bob_5045, 12 d ago

Aqua981C

Discussion Starter · 4 mo ago

Hi all,

I've been looking at the various options for adding Carplay to my Cayman to replace the CDR-31 base unit.
I've considered the various add-on boxes from JoyeAuto, NMAutomotive and the various similar units on Alibaba and have nearly purchased a JoyeAuto unit several times, but whilst I like the idea of preserving the OEM look, I'm also now drawn to some of the Android head units out there.

I've looked at Xtrons and checked with them, but unfortunately they don't have a unit which will fit the 981 and have no plans to make one. Same goes for Dynavin.

Have also seen other options like this pricey one from Belsee but not convinced it will fit the 981:
Belsee Carplay unit for Cayman

This one caught my eye recently as it also has physical knobs which I like, better screen and supposedly much more modern internals. Of course there's always the chance that this will turn out to be a piece of **** with zero support from the manufacturer, and set fire to my car, but at only about £180 on eBay I figured it might be worth a shot :
Erisin Carplay unit for Porsche Cayman 981

Not being a car audio expert I'm not sure what wiring adapters or other splicing work might be required to fit this unit - here's an image of the rear showing all connections - can anyone tell me how easy difficult fitting might be in terms of wiring?.

Any other options that I've missed for adding Carplay to the 981?

Thanks!

Circuit component Font Passive circuit component Hardware programmer Slip joint pliers

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foodbiker

· #2 · 4 mo ago

FWIW, Joyeauto for the win. I popped one into my 981 last March to keep the OEM and it has been great. There may be newer stuff out there, but I'm pretty happy with it so far.

Gilles

· #3 · 4 mo ago

Foodbiker, does the JoyeAuto box unit lets you keep the OEM in place? Could you please provide more details? I would love to add a Nav capability to the base OEM system on my 981CS, but honestly I don't have a clue where to start, thank you!

Ernest72

· #4 · 4 mo ago

If you have CarPlay you will not use Oem nav.

Reactions: 1

Gilles

· #5 · 4 mo ago

Ernest72 said:
If you have CarPlay you will not use Oem nav.

Ernest, I don't have NAV (or CarPlay).. my car has the very basic system, for this reason I wanted to know if by adding the JoyeAuto would allow me to have access to Maps without modifying the OEM look..

Ernest72

· #6 · 4 mo ago

When you have CarPlay it would enable the maps app on your iPhone so you would use that as your navigation not the Oem Nav. It would show up on the screen just like on your iPhone. I have CarPlay in two of my cars and it is great, like your phone on the screen. I don’t need it on my 14 cayman because I can do calls, listen music, Sirius app, podcasts, etc with the usb connection to the Oem PCM. Most if the time the music is low and I listen to the flat 6😊

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ELCID86

· #7 · 4 mo ago

I have Joye but it requires the external box which is a PITA to hide. I think Isudar (sp) doesn’t have the box. Someone has also been posting they have a new unit with no box and superior audio. Keep doing your research.

I don’t get what you mean about the maps. As stated the new unit will allow you to show Google maps or Waze on the PCM display.

Gear shift Radio Satellite radio Steering wheel Car

Shawn in VA (USA)

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Gilles

· #8 · 4 mo ago

Ernest72 said:
When you have CarPlay it would enable the maps app on your iPhone so you would use that as your navigation not the Oem Nav. It would show up on the screen just like on your iPhone. I don’t need it on my 14 cayman because I can do calls, listen music, Sirius app, podcasts, etc with the usb connection to the Oem PCM. Most if the time the music is low and I listen to the flat 6😊

Ernest, I was not aware that you could connect your phone (I have an android) to the PCM with an usb cable..!
I would have to look into it, hopefully my car is the same as yours as I have the base system (PCM 3.1..?)

Can you get the google maps display from your phone by simply plugging your phone to the car?
If so, this was my main interest on any other system (like JoyeAuto..) and now that you mentioned perhaps CarPlay..?

Gilles

· #9 · 4 mo ago

ELCID86 said:
I don’t get what you mean about the maps. As stated the new unit will allow you to show Google maps or Waze on the PCM display.

Shawn in VA (USA)

I just wanted to be able to see Goggle Maps on the OEM car screen, but now Ernest mentioned that he could plug his phone to his Cayman with a usb cable..?

Please forgive me but the electronics knowledge is very limited (technologically challenged?) ...LOL
I usually stick to mechanical components and repairs

Ernest72

· #10 · 4 mo ago

Gilles said:
I just wanted to be able to see Goggle Maps on the OEM car screen, but now Ernest mentioned that he could plug his phone to his Cayman with a usb cable..?

Please forgive me but the electronics knowledge is very limited (technologically challenged?) ...LOL
I usually stick to mechanical components and repairs

I cannot see the maps on the stock Oem screen with my usb connection. You will need one of the aftermarket CarPlay mods to do that.

Reactions: 2

ELCID86

· #11 · 3 mo ago

OP, please note these units also work with Android Auto so when we are say Carplay it is synonymous with AA and your G-maps will display on the PCM screen.

I have not read this thread but posting as it may be enlightening and is the other unit I mentioned above.

rennlist.com

Isudar Carplay for PCM 3.1 - Rennlist - Porsche Discussion Forums

Panamera - Isudar Carplay for PCM 3.1 - I am opening a new thread because there are differences between the Joyeauto unit and the one I installed which are pretty significant. Here is the link to purchase: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002662816135.html It arrived in couple of weeks which...

rennlist.com

Shawn in VA (USA)

Reactions: 1

bob_5045

· #12 · 3 mo ago

Aqua981C said:
Hi all,

I've been looking at the various options for adding Carplay to my Cayman to replace the CDR-31 base unit.
I've considered the various add-on boxes from JoyeAuto, NMAutomotive and the various similar units on Alibaba and have nearly purchased a JoyeAuto unit several times, but whilst I like the idea of preserving the OEM look, I'm also now drawn to some of the Android head units out there.

I've looked at Xtrons and checked with them, but unfortunately they don't have a unit which will fit the 981 and have no plans to make one. Same goes for Dynavin.

Have also seen other options like this pricey one from Belsee but not convinced it will fit the 981:
Belsee Carplay unit for Cayman

This one caught my eye recently as it also has physical knobs which I like, better screen and supposedly much more modern internals. Of course there's always the chance that this will turn out to be a piece of **** with zero support from the manufacturer, and set fire to my car, but at only about £180 on eBay I figured it might be worth a shot :
Erisin Carplay unit for Porsche Cayman 981

Not being a car audio expert I'm not sure what wiring adapters or other splicing work might be required to fit this unit - here's an image of the rear showing all connections - can anyone tell me how easy difficult fitting might be in terms of wiring?.

Any other options that I've missed for adding Carplay to the 981?

Thanks!

View attachment 286315

Isudur does not have a unit that will work on a cdr-31, thats what I have. Look at zz-2.com , works perfect here.

andygo

· #13 · 3 mo ago

I have an NM automotive unit I fitted into my 2016 CGTS. I dont need to connect a cable to the car, all works on bluetooth. So I have Apple Carplay (Or Android) that works seamlessly as I turn on the ignition and with my phone in my pocket.. Will play any music on my phone via a selection of phone apps.
I chose this option due to the excellent support from NVM. If you mail him, he replies pretty much instantly in English. In my view it seemed a similar product to the joyeauto, but far better support. The instructional videos are simple to follow. Also can be turned off if taking car into an OPC to have your wallet abused whilst car is under warranty..

Very impressed with everything, as you can probably tell.

ELCID86

· #14 · 3 mo ago

These guys claim to have a unit that works.

carplayretrofits.com

Carplay / Android Auto Plug and Play Kit for Porsche CDR 3.1 (Without

This is for OEM radios WITHOUT Nav Button. Your radio will say CD AUX and SAT on the right buttons. See last picture. Install available, radio must be shipped to us. Price includes return shipping if you are in the US. Please select in the options. Radio will be shipped back out the following...

carplayretrofits.com

carplayretrofits.com

Shawn in VA (USA)

Gilles

· #15 · 3 mo ago

Thank you for the link Shawn!
I am curious to know which system they are installing, the price seems very reasonable, but the car would be parked for at list two weeks..
On Rennlist I found about NM Automotive (UK), which sells their system for around $500 USD plus installation.
I also checked out zz-2.com (suggested by Bob) and they sell their system for about $950 USD but they don't sell direct and it seems that you have to use one of their authorized installers which will add their labor as well.

thestuntdummy

· #16 · 3 mo ago

Gilles said:
Thank you for the link Shawn!
I am curious to know which system they are installing, the price seems very reasonable, but the car would be parked for at list two weeks..
On Rennlist I found about NM Automotive (UK), which sells their system for around $500 USD plus installation.
I also checked out zz-2.com (suggested by Bob) and they sell their system for about $950 USD but they don't sell direct and it seems that you have to use one of their authorized installers which will add their labor as well.

Hi Gilles,

You are asking all the right questions. I have been contemplating a CarPlay install but wanted to retain the stock PCM. If you are searching on Rennlist look up Mr12Volt. This self-install kit looks like the latest and best technology in CarPlay/Android interface. I would stay away from CarPlayRetrofits just based on some of the forums I am on. The spam posts and less than stellar pushing of the product was not well received. The OP still has not identified the details and specifics of the actual setup and it seems to be a rebadged Isudar or JoyeAuto. Maybe more details will be made public but right now the advertisement and website are not transparent.

If you are in the UK and can get a system installed by NM Automotive, that is your best route if you don't want to do a self-install. They have a good reputation. Good luck!

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andygo

· #17 · 3 mo ago

I self installed my NM Automotive kit. Pretty straightforward, looks more complicated than it actually is when you are doing it.
In fact I have just looked at the instructions I was sent. Very clear, well written with good photos. I can't publish online as they are watermaked with my personal details to prevent posting.

Reactions: 1

mac_flyer9

· #18 · 3 mo ago (Edited)

I installed the Mr12Volt system last week and am very happy with the results. The instructions were clear and additional videos were on YT. The best advice is take your time. Next is the backup camera.

Car Vehicle Motor vehicle Steering part Plant

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Aqua981C

Discussion Starter · #19 · 3 mo ago

Thanks for the replies all. I'm erring towards the NMAutomotive solution, though you do seem to be paying £100+ or so for the support on what looks like a rebadged JoyeAuto unit. Like Isudar Mr12Volt doesn't make a unit compatible with the CDR31 (is it called a CDR31, CDR-31, CDR3.1?!). It seems crazy how much the prices for these basically very similar units vary.
Quite liking this solution from AOSTR too: Android Head Unit replaced Bose

Reactions: 1

Kernel Klink

· #20 · 3 mo ago

This was posted on one of the FB pages. Supposedly all internal, so no worries about external dongle placement. Haven’t used, but good for thought…

Just released! Carplayretrofits Porsche 3.1 PCM and CDR (Use correct links below) Wireless Apple Carplay and Andrioid Auto integration board. These fit the following vehicles:
Boxster, Cayman & 911 (981 & 991.1) - 2012 to 2016
Cayenne - 2010 to 2017
Macan - 2014 to 2016
Panamera - 2010 to 2016
This board is 6x faster then the previous models on the market. We were also able to lower the cost compared to others too. This whole kit is conveniently installed inside your OEM PCM 3.1 Radio. No extra boxes needed like others.
I also offer a service where you can send your radio to me and I'll install for a fee or we can ship the board and instructions with an install video to you. The choice is yours!
Any questions please let me know.
Order on my website here:
PCM 3.1 (NAV Button) Carplay / Android Auto Plug and Play Kit for Porsche PCM 3.1 - 991.1 9
CDR 3.1 (CD / SAT Buttons) (Uses extra box)

carplayretrofits.com

Carplay / Android Auto Plug and Play Kit for Porsche CDR 3.1 (Without

This is for OEM radios WITHOUT Nav Button. Your radio will say CD AUX and SAT on the right buttons. See last picture. Install available, radio must be shipped to us. Price includes return shipping if you are in the US. Please select in the options. Radio will be shipped back out the following...

carplayretrofits.com

carplayretrofits.com

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