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In today’s digital age, automakers have embraced a wireless way of life. It’s nearly impossible to come across a new vehicle that doesn’t have a Bluetooth offering as part of the standard package. The ability to play music, conduct phone calls, and answer text messages hands-free is not only convenient––but much safer than shifting your attention from the road to your mobile device. Bluetooth technology started out as an option on higher-end luxury cars in the 2000s––meaning millions of cars on the road today still lack the capability. Hybrid Car Charger
If you’re driving a car that predates the “Bluetooth Renaissance,” there’s no reason to panic and purchase a new car. Bluetooth adapters are the perfect solution to gain all the benefits of hands-free without having to purchase an entirely new vehicle. Some simply plug into the auxiliary jack of your car’s audio system, while others plug into the 12-volt outlet and route the audio through an FM frequency on the radio. Another option are Bluetooth systems that can be permanently installed into your car using the same technology found in newer vehicles today. Regardless of your preference or your car’s limitations, there are options to suit your needs.
IMDEN Bluetooth 5.0 FM Transmitter for Car
LED display, QC3.0 capability, built-in microphone with CVC technology
IMDEN Bluetooth 5.0 FM Transmitter for Car
Besign BK01 Bluetooth 4.1 Car Kit
Auto-on and auto-sync, ground loop noise isolator, magnetic mounting base
Besign BK01 Bluetooth 4.1 Car Kit
12-hr battery life, 30-ft BT range, multi-device connectivity
Though many new cars come with wireless capabilities, some only integrate with the manufacturer’s infotainment system. To use CarPlay, certain models still require a wired connection to access the interface. The Wireless CarPlay Adapter changes that limitation by allowing you to access it without the hassle of being tethered to a phone cable. Simply plug the adapter into the car’s phone charging port to take full advantage of CarPlay––no cables necessary.
Best Budget Auxiliary Port Bluetooth Adapter
Best Budget Auxiliary Port Bluetooth Adapter
COMSOON Bluetooth 5.0 Receiver for Car
Having direct access to the car’s audio system provides the connection to effortlessly enjoy quality sound being transmitted from the source. In this case that would be your mobile phone. Though battery operated, this device can run on a full charge for 16 hours. Moreover, it comes with a built-in microphone, integrated intelligent noise reduction technology, and it can be paired with up to two devices at a time.
Syncwire Bluetooth 5.3 FM Transmitter for Car
When an FM transmitter is the only option for Bluetooth in your car, this one by Syncwire is a solid option. It plugs into the car’s 12-volt outlet and provides a more stable connection for streaming sound over FM frequency. The FM transmitter also pairs quickly to your compatible mobile device. Additionally, it comes with a built-in function that adds extra base to the music being streamed from your device. Other functions included an LED light illuminating the front face that pulses in concert with your music, two charging ports and a built-in microphone for making calls.
Kinivo BTC450 Bluetooth Car Kit
The Kinivo BTC 450 can be powered by an internal battery or by a 12-volt outlet. Users praise its high audio quality and two-year warranty. Dash-mounting adhesive is included and makes it look like an extra button on your dash. The main issue: You have to be playing music in order to receive phone calls.
USA Spec BT45-HON3 Bluetooth Phone, Music & AUX Input Kit
The USA Spec BT-45 is a factory-style Bluetooth system for cars that didn’t come with it. USA Spec makes different versions of the BT-45 for different cars. When shopping, be sure to get the right one for your vehicle. The main advantage is no visible hardware or cables littering your car’s interior. It also provides higher audio quality than either FM or aux connection Bluetooth adapters.
Bluetooth connectors give you access to your smartphone even if your car doesn’t have a Bluetooth connection. On older cars you can use the adapter to connect to modern times and go hands-free or listen to audio and media on your phone. Many adapters include extra features like device charging and small display screens.
In order to determine the best Bluetooth adapters, we considered the products’ performance, price and value. We evaluate all car Bluetooth adapters based on these weighted metrics:
Many states have outlawed holding a phone while driving. Even if your state is not one of them, it’s safer to use a hands-free device. Bluetooth adapters make that possible in cars that didn’t come from the factory with Bluetooth and adds the benefit of being able to play your favorite music or podcasts through your car’s audio system.
While not every Bluetooth adapter will work with every car, because Bluetooth adapters are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, you’re sure to find one that’s right for your vehicle. Some adapters plug into a 12-volt outlet and route the audio through an FM frequency on the radio, others access the sound system through the aux jack. If your vehicle has a 12-volt outlet or an aux jack, these types of adapters will work in your vehicle. More sophisticated adapters can be permanently hardwired in place, which means that with a bit of surgery, they can be installed in pretty much any vehicle on the market.
Consider your budget first. A built-in system, mimicking a factory Bluetooth installation, is a couple hundred dollars plus installation. Almost every other solution, whether it’s an FM Bluetooth adapter or an aux connection Bluetooth adapter, can be had for a fraction of that and requires no installation. FM adapters plug into 12-volt outlets, which are universal in cars. Not all cars have an aux input.
A built-in system is invisible and your device, once connected, will reconnect with the car each time you get in. FM Bluetooth adapters plug into a 12-volt outlet. The phone plugs into a USB port on the adapter and the sound is sent to a vacant FM radio frequency. The downside to that is possible signal loss and interference, even with the signal being broadcast such a short distance. Aux connection Bluetooth adapters provide a direct line into your audio system, but there’s no getting around a visible cable.
That will vary by your priorities. If it’s making and receiving phone calls, then microphone quality and noise cancellation should be at the top of your list. For streaming audio, sound quality and reliability of connection would be most important.
Built-in Bluetooth adapters are hard-wired into the vehicle’s electrical system. FM adapters plug into the vehicle’s 12-volt power outlet, as do some aux connection adapters. Others are battery-powered and require recharging after a period of time.
A car-crazy California kid, I’ve been writing and talking about vehicles for 25 years on TV and radio, in print and online, including AAA magazines in Arizona, Oklahoma, Northwest Ohio, South Dakota and the Mountain West, as well as BBC Autos. I serve as vice president of the Western Automotive Journalists, a professional group for automotive writers based in San Francisco, and have no relation to McKeel Hagerty of Hagerty Classic Insurance, who is younger, better looking and wealthier.
Universal Fuse Box I’m a lifestyle writer and digital marketing strategist specializing in fashion, food and wine. My experience includes working with national and international brands such as Captain Morgan and Godiva Spirits on their social media and digital content strategies. As a journalist, I have interviewed television personalities, award-winning chefs and provided front-row coverage of famed designer runway shows at New York Fashion Week. You can find me on Instagram and Twitter: @seblaforest