We started seeing cars with factory installed Bluetooth about ten years ago. If you have a newer model car, then you probably already enjoy Bluetooth features.
What if you have an older model vehicle but also want the ability to make hands-free calls or stream music from your smartphone? Don’t worry. You can easily install Bluetooth in your car yourself.
There are three ways to go about installing Bluetooth in your automobile. One involves a universal Bluetooth kit that works in any vehicle while another option is to use a vehicle-specific kit that connects to the factory stereo in your car. Then there’s the pricier option to buy a car stereo with built-in Bluetooth.
Unsure which product will best suit your needs? Here’s some background on each option to help you decide:
UNIVERSAL BLUETOOTH KITS
Universal Bluetooth kits are called universal for a reason—they work in just about any car, truck or SUV. You can even move them from one vehicle another. With a universal Bluetooth kit, you can easily add Bluetooth functionality to your car’s stereo as long as it has an auxiliary port.
How to install: Plug the audio cable into the auxiliary port and the power adapter in the cigarette lighter.
PROFESSIONAL BLUETOOTH KITS
Vehicle-specific or stereo-specific Bluetooth kits mean they were designed for certain car models. While these professional Bluetooth kits may be more expensive than universal kits, they will blend into your car’s interior much better because they use your car’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) radio, cutting out the wires and giving it an overall cleaner look. They also free up your cigarette lighter port (if you have one) and offer more features than a universal kit. At iSimple, you can run a search for the right Bluetooth kit for your car by selecting your car’s make, model and year.
How to install: Vehicle-specific kits involve removing your factory radio; don’t worry, you’ll put it back when you’re done connecting the vehicle-specific Bluetooth adapter.
NEW STEREO WITH BUILT-IN BLUETOOTH
This last Bluetooth installation option requires more work and more cash. It involves buying a completely new stereo and replacing your car’s head unit. So, not only is it on the pricier side, but it also requires an extensive installation process.
How to install: Installing a new stereo with built-in Bluetooth requires removing your car’s existing stereo, wiring the new receiver, and installing the new car stereo.
If you’re still stuck on which Bluetooth option works best for you and your car, drop us a line or shoot us an email. We’ve got simple solutions for your Bluetooth demands.