CarPlay Head Unit for Dodge Nitro (2008-2011): how to install Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

The Dodge Nitro is one of those cars that never goes unnoticed: straight lines, the look of an American off-roader and a presence that still turns heads in any car park. In Europe it was sold mainly with the 2.8 CRD diesel, and those who own one tend to keep it precisely for its character. What has clearly fallen behind is the infotainment: CD-era head units, tiny displays and, of course, no sign of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Fixing that doesn't call for improvised phone mounts or FM transmitters. There is a model-specific screen for the Nitro that replaces the original radio, fits the factory opening and adds CarPlay and Android Auto without cutting a single wire in the car. Here's what your Nitro came with, what it gains, how it is fitted and what it costs.

Does the Dodge Nitro have CarPlay as standard?

No. No Nitro left the factory with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto: those systems came long after the model's commercial life. What it did fit was one of these Chrysler group radios:

• CD radio with a monochrome display built into the fascia, showing basic station and track information.
• MyGIG systems on better-equipped cars, with a hard drive and a small touchscreen, optional navigation and maps that are no longer available.
• Bluetooth (UConnect) for calls only on some trims, without app control or phone projection.

Neither software updates nor a new phone will make the original radio mirror your device: it simply isn't built for it. The only real solution is to replace the unit with a model-specific Android screen.

The solution: an Android head unit for the Dodge Nitro

Our model-specific screen for the Dodge Nitro takes the place of the original radio with the model's own frame and harness. It is not a trimmed-down universal unit: it plugs into the original connector and fits without gaps.

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: your phone connects on its own at start-up, with no cables across the dashboard.
• HD touchscreen, far larger and sharper than the original, with day/night adjustment.
• Built-in GPS with Google Maps and Waze, live traffic and offline maps for areas with no coverage.
• Bluetooth hands-free, FM radio, USB and an output for an amplifier or subwoofer.
• Reversing camera input that switches on automatically when you select reverse: on a car as square and as tall-sided as the Nitro, it makes a real difference when parking.
• Steering wheel controls preserved via the included CAN Bus decoder.
• Android with OTA updates and access to Spotify, YouTube Music, internet radio, podcasts or whatever app you use daily.

Compatibility with the Nitro: supported versions

The kit is designed for the Dodge Nitro (2008-2011), in the double-DIN radio opening of the dashboard:

• 2.8 CRD diesel versions, the most common in Spain and Europe, with manual and automatic gearboxes.
• 3.7 V6 and 4.0 V6 petrol versions from the same period.
• SE, SXT and R/T trims, with the standard CD radio or with the MyGIG system.
• Cars with and without a factory reversing camera: if yours doesn't have one, you can add it.

Since the fascia varies by trim and year, the quickest route is to send us a photo of your current radio on WhatsApp. We'll confirm the right frame and harness free of charge before you order.

What is the installation like?

It is a Plug & Play installation: it connects to the car's original connector, without cutting or splicing wiring. An installer will sort it in under an hour, and with a bit of skill you can do it at home.

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal before you start dismantling anything.
2. Remove the centre dashboard trim with plastic pry tools, releasing the clips without levering with metal tools.
3. Undo the original head unit screws and pull it straight out.
4. Unplug the connector blocks and the aerial, plus the MyGIG connector if your car has that system.
5. Connect the specific harness and CAN Bus module from the kit. Each plug only goes in one place, so there is no risk of mixing them up.
6. Route the microphone cable up the windscreen pillar to the mirror; if you fit a camera, run its cable down the side trim to the tailgate.
7. Reconnect the battery and test before closing up: sound from every speaker, steering wheel controls, GPS, camera and phone pairing.
8. Slot the screen into the opening, screw it down and refit the trim.

From · free shipping · support before and after your purchase.

For navigation, music and calls, the 2 GB version is plenty. The 4 GB one makes sense if you use GPS and streaming at the same time every day. We cover it in our RAM guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do the steering wheel controls still work?

Yes. The kit includes the model's CAN Bus decoder, so volume, track skip and phone are still operated from the wheel.

My Nitro has the MyGIG system, can I still fit it?

Yes. The screen replaces the original unit and takes over its functions, with the advantage of using Google Maps or Waze instead of maps that are no longer updated. Tell us when ordering so we send the right harness.

Can I add a reversing camera?

Yes. The screen has a camera input and switches to it automatically when you select reverse. On an SUV with bodywork as tall and square as the Nitro's, it is one of the most appreciated upgrades.

Do I need mobile data for the sat-nav?

Not necessarily. Besides the built-in GPS, you can download offline maps from Google Maps or Waze and navigate with no coverage.

Will it pass the roadworthiness test?

Yes. As a model-specific screen fitted into the original radio opening, it alters neither structure nor lighting and needs no type approval. We explain it in Do Android screens pass the Spanish ITV test?

See the CarPlay head unit for the Dodge Nitro

➡️ See the product: CarPlay and Android Auto Head Unit for Dodge Nitro (2008-2011) · the full screen catalogue.