The Medianav has always been known for its simplicity of use: simple and effective. Android Auto and Carplay perfectly match this philosophy and allow it to get back in the race while keeping its very attractive price. Well done, Renault. I remind you that it is not possible to add Android Auto and Apple Carplay on old MediaNav. Complet gallery.
Hey everyone, after my last post about upgrading my Sync 2 system to Sync 3 in my '15 Fusion I mentioned I was still waiting for the hardware needed to allow CarPlay to function. Some people wanted an update, so here it is!
First, here are the pictures.
Install Notes
I was sent a USB hub (the large block in the picture with the single USB port on it). This component is to replace the built-in USB ports in the center console. On the back it has three connections (only two of which are connected). There are two female mini-USB ports (only one connected straight to the head unit) and another multi-pin connector for power. To supply power to the hub I needed to splice into the harness that goes to the original panel (that holds the old USB ports, SD card, A/V, and 12v cigarette lighter jack). The install took <2 minutes.
CarPlay - How It Functions
CarPlay will automatically launch when my iPhone is connected, and on the display a button is visible to return back to the SYNC system. When in CarPlay the hands-free button on the steering wheel automatically invokes Siri instead of Sync, which is nice. When the phone is connected and CarPlay is enabled - if you return to the Sync system (and exit CarPlay) you will see new buttons along the bottom of Sync 3 (sorry I didn't take pictures). The phone button now has a CarPlay icon, a new icon for CarPlay is added, and the maps/nav icon is changed to CarPlay. Pressing any of those buttons will take you to the designated app within CarPlay.
The Downside
As you can see that USB hub is huge, and will not fit into the original panel. There is a panel that can be purchased from OEM Auto Parts for about $12, but...I have a 3D printer that I don't use nearly enough so I'm going to work on designing my own panel to print and install :)
Let me know if you guys have any questions. I love it so far!