How to Use an iPod in Your Car

You can use an iPod in your car. To facilitate this, premium car manufacturers are introducing cars that are iPod-ready: including an iPod interface for the car stereo system.

For example, BMW offers such a model with audio controls on the steering wheel. Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Mini-Cooper, Nissan, Alfa Romeo, and Ferrari also offer iPod-ready models. In addition, car stereo manufacturers (such as Alpine and Clarion) offer car audio systems with integrated iPod interfacesCCC(see the following figure). Many of these installations use the multiple CD changer interface of the car stereo for attaching separate CD changer units, substituting the iPod for the CD changer unit.

View an iPod-integrated car stereo installation.

If you can’t afford an iPod-ready car, you can opt for a custom installation of an iPod interface for your existing car stereo and car power (such as using a custom cable interface for a CD changer, which a skilled car audio specialist can install into your dashboard).

If your car stereo doesn’t offer a CD changer interface, you might want to have a new car stereo professionally installed that offers a CD changer interface or iPod capability — such as the Alpine CDA-9887. With an integrated iPod setup, you can control the iPod from the car stereo’s head unit or steering wheel controls. The car stereo provides power to the iPod to keep it fully charged.