Android auto with JBL and Nav?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by JmLacy, Mar 12, 2026 at 4:41 PM.

  1. JmLacy

    JmLacy New Member

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    My 2010 has the jbl sound system and navigation and I want to upgrade my screen to android auto and not loose the JBL and use my exsisting backup camera. Which units will work for me?
     
  2. BiomedO1

    BiomedO1 Senior Member

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    None; Your head unit is incompatible and won't even do Apple Carplay. Android Auto was only available on gen4 base models; higher end models was Carplay ONLY compatible. That may have changed for the gen5s. I don't know.
    The cheapest and easiest way to get android auto into your car is through a separate screen; like the one below.
     
  3. AzusaPrius

    AzusaPrius Senior Member

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    The statement made above is incorrect.

    I just did an install in my prius with an android unit called Smarty Trend.

    High priced tho and a dice roll if you do not get the correct harness sent to you.

    Only good communication is through Whatsapp.

    You can use factory camera and SWC.

    Will work with JBL system.

    But.....you can get it done for way less with cheaper android units for sure.
     
  4. BiomedO1

    BiomedO1 Senior Member

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    Are you talk about changing the head unit or just doing a software update of the OEM unit???? To the best of my knowledge, the OEM head unit doesn't have the hardware or software capability for that, especially not in a 2010.
    Just looked up Smarty Trend; You need to replace the entire head unit that's just made for specific cars. You can do the same by going through the Crutchfield automotive stereo store. At least you can get a name brand quality unit instead of a knock-off with hidden issues. I've installed a cheap knock-off head unit in my 2002 GMC to get android auto and backup camera capabilities. It works great when your not moving; stereo signal drifts when you are. It was worth it to me for <$100 all-in for those capabilities; but I've known people who spent thousands on crappy knock-off sound systems while parked. https://www.crutchfield.com/S-DySg0pXbLfN/

    So you are actually incorrect; head unit must be replaced and hopefully those fly-by-night shops do a good install job. In my experience, most of them don't and overlook the details like steering wheel controls and/or alert chimes sometimes routed through the head units. Don't know if the gen3s throws up car system data points on that screen, but the gen4 does - so you would lose that capability too. The devils in the details; when details don't matter - I guess anything you slap in there will "work"?o_O:whistle:

    Bottom line; you can make anything work - if you throw enough time and money at the problem. Those people who spent thousands on loud, buzzy, distorted sound systems is proof of that.
     
    #4 BiomedO1, Mar 13, 2026 at 2:56 AM
    Last edited: Mar 13, 2026 at 3:22 AM