Steering wheel button and aftermarket head unit

Currently shopping for a used 4 runner - noting Carplay is an option beginning in 2020.

I also see that it's fairly common to replace the head unit with something "nicer".

If I were to get a 2019 or prior AND replace the head unit (to one that has carplay) - would I be able to use a steering wheel button to ask for directions and use the verbal prompts in carplay?

Thanks - trying to see if I can expand my search as carplay seems like the only difference in 2020 up.

 

yes but you will need a control module like a Maestro depending on your headunit choice.

https://www.crutchfield.com/S-BEnWi...aestro-SW-Steering-Wheel-Control-Adapter.html

 

Maestro is “da bomb”

Get a head unit with an idatalink port and it will unlock amazing features such as real time gauges/stats/climate controls/k40 integration and more.

*not employed by any brand, just use the products with good results*

 

i have Alpine Halo 9 and Maestro RR1. I second the Maestro, it takes care of everything.

Just be sure you research which headunits will give you what features..............i had a Kenwood DMX706s before (still sitting in storage) but it didn't have preset station search from the steering wheel on SiriusXM, which i use a lot. Everything else was perfect, but Sirius is the main thing i use so a big deal to me personally.

 

thank you all. This community is really awesome and I appreciate the wisdom on this point, specifically. It more or less unlocks many more used options.

As an aside - I'm on Day 15 with my F150 at the dealer. Soooo looking forward to joining the community "officially".