How to Get Bluetooth Audio in Your Old Car
For many of us, upgrading to a new car is simply not in our budget. That doesn’t mean, however, that we have to miss out on the latest tech conveniences. Bluetooth audio can be added to almost any vehicle on the road today, making it easy to wirelessly link devices and enjoy your favorite music and streaming services. Here’s what you need to know about installing Bluetooth in your older car.
Step 1: Choose an Aftermarket Bluetooth Adapter
The first step in adding Bluetooth to your vehicle is to find an aftermarket adapter that is compatible with your particular car model. Generally, magnetic phone mounts are a good starting point as they enable you to have easy access to your device while keeping it secure and out of the way. However, if you’re looking for something even more comprehensive, consider an aftermarket car radio with built-in Bluetooth audio.
Step 2: Plug In the Adapter
Once you’ve found the right aftermarket adapter for your car, the next step is to plug it in. This is usually as simple as connecting the car’s power cable to one end of the device and plugging the other end into your car’s auxiliary port. Make sure to consult the instructions for your specific device, as the connection process can vary slightly depending on brand and model.
Step 3: Pair Your Device
The last step is to pair your device to the aftermarket adapter. Depending on the model of the device, this step might vary a bit. In general, though, the pairing process will involve activating Bluetooth on your device, then searching for and selecting your device on the list of discoverable Bluetooth devices.
Quick Tips for Pairing Your Device
• Make sure your device’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are both on.
• Activate the hands-free calling feature if your adapter has one.
• Use the car’s navigation system if it has one, and make sure the device you’re connecting is compatible.
• Make sure your device is within the range of the adapter.
• Make sure the adapter is properly connected to your car and powered on.
Enjoy Your Music
Once you’ve successfully paired your device to the Bluetooth car audio adapter, you’ll be able to access your favorite music and streaming services from your car. Keep in mind that, depending on the model of the device, there may be additional features such as hands-free calling, navigation, and voice commands. If your device has these features, make sure to consult the included instructions for the best experience.
Your car doesn’t have to be brand new to benefit from the latest tech. The process of adding Bluetooth audio to an older car is fairly simple and can be done in just a few steps. By finding an aftermarket adapter, plugging it in, and pairing your device, you’ll be able to enjoy your music, streaming services, and any additional features your device may have.
