Here we will see in pictures how to install Apple Carplay on a 2021 BMW 1 Series F40 with EVO system.
Required equipment: a T20 torx screwdriver.
Installation time: 30-40 minutes
Inventory: Carplay module and wiring.
So we count the module, a wifi antenna, 2 LVDS (video) cables, the power cable, the auxiliary cable, and a USB cable (no need to plug it in if we use the device wirelessly).
STEP 1: DISASSEMBLE THE SCREEN
We will start by unclipping the plastic cover.
Pull it down, there is no connector.
The original screen is maintained by 3 screws to remove.
Now you can take it out.
Unplug the LVDS (video jack) from the display.
STEP 2: DISASSEMBLE THE RADIO
Now we have to take out the ventilation grids, held in place by 6 screws.
We can finally see the BMW EVO car radio.
Let’s take out the cover that protects the car radio.
Just take it out.
It is maintained by several clips.
Pull down the car radio (also maintained by 2 screws).
STEP 3: CONNECTION
The connection is quite simple, the POWER connector is to be connected to the original Quadlock to make a By-pass.
The pink LVDS connector (circled on the picture) comes from the screen that we had previously disconnected.
Finally, connect the blue LVDS plug (video plug) of the Carplay box directly to the screen (instead of the original one – the pink one).
We can test the whole thing before putting it back together.
Finally, store the Carplay box under the ventilation or in the glove compartment.
STEP 4: TEST
Press and hold the MENU button for 3 seconds on your iDRIVE wheel.
The menu will appear, select what you want to use: Apple Carplay, Android Auto or Mirror Link.
Here, we have chosen Apple Carplay on the BMW 1 Series F40.
Our module: Apple Carplay for BMW HERE
