Does The 2016 Ford Explorer Have Apple Carplay
The 2016 Ford Explorer does not come equipped with Apple CarPlay from the factory because it utilizes the older SYNC 2 (MyFord Touch) infotainment system. To get CarPlay functionality, owners must either perform a hardware swap to a SYNC 3 system or install an aftermarket head unit.
You bought a 2016 Ford Explorer because it is a rugged, capable, and spacious SUV perfect for family road trips or light off-roading. However, as soon as you try to plug in your iPhone, you realize the interface feels dated and lacks modern smartphone integration. It is a common frustration for owners of this specific model year.
Many drivers find themselves asking, does the 2016 ford explorer have apple carplay, hoping for a simple software update to solve the problem. Unfortunately, the answer is not as straightforward as a quick download, but there are several reliable ways to modernize your ride. I will guide you through the technical reasons for this limitation and the exact steps to upgrade your system.
In this guide, we will explore the hardware requirements, the specific tools you need for a DIY swap, and the best aftermarket alternatives. Whether you want to keep the factory look or go for a full custom setup, we have you covered. Let’s dive into the details of upgrading your Explorer’s tech stack.
Understanding the Limitation: does the 2016 ford explorer have apple carplay?
The primary reason the 2016 model year misses out is the hardware architecture of the SYNC 2 system. Ford introduced SYNC 3 in most 2017 models, which featured the necessary processing power and capacitive touchscreens required for Apple CarPlay. The 2016 Explorer was the last year to feature the resistive-touch SYNC 2 system.
When people ask does the 2016 ford explorer have apple carplay, they are often surprised to learn that SYNC 2 and SYNC 3 are entirely different platforms. SYNC 2 was built on a Microsoft-based operating system, while SYNC 3 moved to a Blackberry QNX platform. This shift makes a simple software “patch” impossible for the older units.
To get the features you want, you have to address the physical hardware inside your dashboard. This involves replacing the Access Protocol Interface Module (APIM) and the screen itself. While this sounds daunting, it is a very common project for DIY mechanics and Ford enthusiasts alike.
The SYNC 2 vs. SYNC 3 Breakdown
Before you start buying parts, you need to understand what you are gaining with an upgrade. SYNC 2 uses a four-quadrant home screen that can be sluggish and unresponsive to light touches. It relies on pressure rather than the electrical conductivity of your finger.
SYNC 3 offers a much more smartphone-like experience with pinch-to-zoom gestures and much faster response times. Most importantly, it supports the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto protocols. This allows you to project your navigation, music, and messages directly onto the vehicle’s display.
Upgrading also improves your off-road navigation capabilities. By using CarPlay, you can run apps like Gaia GPS or OnX Offroad on your dash. This is a massive upgrade for those who take their Explorer into the backcountry where factory maps often fail.
Key Differences at a Glance
- SYNC 2: Resistive touch, Microsoft-based, no smartphone mirroring, slower processor.
- SYNC 3: Capacitive touch, QNX-based, supports Apple CarPlay, high-speed hardware.
- USB Hub: SYNC 2 hubs do not support the high-speed data transfer required for CarPlay.
How to Upgrade Your 2016 Explorer to SYNC 3
If you have decided that you need CarPlay, the most popular route is a SYNC 3 hardware swap. This keeps your steering wheel controls, backup camera, and climate settings functioning exactly like they did from the factory. It is the cleanest looking solution for your interior.
You will need to source a SYNC 3 APIM and a matching 8-inch capacitive touchscreen. These can be found in salvaged 2017-2019 Explorers or purchased as pre-programmed kits online. Pre-programmed kits are easier for beginners because they come configured for your specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Beyond the screen and module, you must replace the USB hub located in your center console. The 2016 hub is not MFi-certified by Apple, meaning it won’t trigger the CarPlay handshake. You will also need a GPS antenna with a blue Fakra connector to ensure the system time and navigation function correctly.
Required Tools for the Job
- Plastic Trim Removal Tools: To avoid scratching your dashboard plastics.
- 7mm Socket and Ratchet: Most Ford interior bolts are 7mm.
- T20 Torx Driver: Required to separate the screen from the APIM.
- FORScan Software: An OBDII adapter and laptop to program the new module (if not pre-programmed).
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Safety first: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on your vehicle’s electrical system. This prevents short circuits and protects your expensive new modules. Once the power is cut, you can begin removing the trim pieces surrounding the radio.
Carefully pry the trim panels starting from the bottom near the shifter. Work your way up slowly to release the plastic clips. Once the trim is off, you will see four 7mm bolts holding the radio bezel in place. Remove these and gently pull the bezel forward to disconnect the wiring harnesses.
After the bezel is out, you can access the four bolts holding the screen and APIM assembly. Pull the old unit out and swap the wiring over to your new SYNC 3 unit. Most connectors are plug-and-play, though you will need to plug your new GPS antenna into the back of the APIM and mount it inside the dash.
Finally, pop out the old USB hub in the console and replace it with the CarPlay-compliant version. Reassemble the dash in reverse order. When you reconnect the battery and fire up the system, the Ford logo should greet you on a much brighter, crisper screen.
Programming with FORScan
If you bought a used module from a junkyard, your Explorer might act a bit strange at first. The heated seats might not show up on the screen, or the backup camera lines might be missing. This is because the APIM needs to be “told” what features your specific vehicle has.
This is where FORScan comes in. It is a powerful diagnostic software that allows you to edit the “As-Built” data of your Ford modules. You will need a high-quality OBDII to USB adapter (like the OBDLink EX) to connect your laptop to the car’s diagnostic port.
Load your original factory configuration into the new module and then toggle the bits for Apple CarPlay. There are many online spreadsheets and forums dedicated to Explorer owners that provide the exact hex codes needed. This step is the difference between a “hack job” and a factory-perfect installation.
Aftermarket Head Unit Alternatives
Maybe a SYNC 3 swap feels too expensive or technical for you. Another option is installing an aftermarket head unit from brands like Pioneer, Alpine, or Sony. These units often offer better sound quality and more pre-amp outputs for those building a custom audio system.
The challenge with the 2016 Explorer is the integrated climate controls. Since the radio and AC are tied together, you will need an iDatalink Maestro interface. This module allows the new radio to talk to your car’s computer so you don’t lose control of your heater and air conditioning.
While aftermarket units are feature-rich, they often require a new dash kit that might not perfectly match the factory plastic texture. However, if you are an audiophile looking for high-fidelity sound alongside CarPlay, this is definitely the path to take. You can even find “floating” screens that are much larger than the factory 8-inch display.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes DIYers make is buying a SYNC 3 module from a different vehicle type without checking the mounting brackets. A module from a Ford Fusion or F-150 might require you to swap the metal side brackets from your old SYNC 2 unit to fit the Explorer’s dash.
Another issue is the GPS antenna placement. If you hide the antenna too deep under metal structures in the dash, your CarPlay maps might “drift” or lose your location. I recommend placing the antenna on top of the air vents just behind the screen, where only plastic sits between it and the sky.
Lastly, ensure your iPhone cable is a genuine Apple or high-quality certified cable. Many “charging only” cables will cause the connection to drop out repeatedly. In an off-road environment where vibrations are high, a secure physical connection is vital for uninterrupted navigation.
Frequently Asked Questions About does the 2016 ford explorer have apple carplay
Can I just get a software update for CarPlay on my 2016 Explorer?
No, a software update is not possible. The 2016 model uses SYNC 2 hardware, which lacks the RAM, processor speed, and capacitive screen technology required to run the Apple CarPlay interface. You must perform a hardware upgrade.
Will upgrading to SYNC 3 void my vehicle warranty?
Generally, it will not void your entire vehicle warranty, but Ford will not cover the new infotainment hardware if it fails. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealer must prove your modification caused a specific failure to deny a warranty claim on other parts of the car.
How much does it cost to add Apple CarPlay to a 2016 Explorer?
If you source used parts yourself, you can complete the swap for roughly $400 to $600. If you buy a pre-configured, all-in-one kit with a warranty, expect to pay between $800 and $1,200. Aftermarket head units with the necessary dash kits usually fall in the $600 to $900 range.
Does the 2016 ford explorer have apple carplay if it has the small 4-inch screen?
No, and the upgrade path is more difficult. Vehicles with the 4-inch “base” radio require a different wiring harness and a new dash bezel to accommodate the larger 8-inch screen. It is still possible, but it involves significantly more work and expense.
Will my factory backup camera still work?
Yes, if you use a SYNC 3 swap or a high-quality aftermarket interface like the iDatalink Maestro, your factory backup camera will retain its full functionality, including the active parking lines that turn with your steering wheel.
Final Thoughts for the DIY Explorer Owner
Modernizing your vehicle is one of the most rewarding projects you can undertake. While the factory answer to does the 2016 ford explorer have apple carplay is a disappointing “no,” the automotive community has created fantastic workarounds that bring this SUV into the modern era.
By upgrading your hardware, you aren’t just getting a prettier screen; you are improving the safety and utility of your vehicle. Having hands-free access to your messages and reliable, real-time traffic data makes every commute and trail run much more enjoyable. It breathes new life into a vehicle that is otherwise mechanically excellent.
Take your time with the trim removal, double-check your connections, and don’t be afraid to use tools like FORScan to dial in the settings. Whether you are prepping for a cross-country road trip or just want better tunes on your way to work, this upgrade is worth every penny. Stay safe, stay connected, and enjoy the drive!
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