Apple CarPlay has become an essential feature for many drivers, but not every vehicle makes it convenient. If you have factory wired CarPlay, you know the small annoyance of plugging in your phone every single time. The Burnt Sugar Wireless CarPlay Adapter solves that problem with a compact, plug-and-play design that converts wired CarPlay into a seamless wireless experience.
Design and Build Quality
The first impression is how small and discreet it is. The ultra-mini USB form factor means it doesn’t clutter the console or block other ports, and it blends easily into the cabin. Despite its size, the casing feels sturdy, and the included USB-C adapter makes it versatile across different vehicles.
Setup and Installation
Installation is straightforward.
- Plug the adapter into the same USB port you normally use for wired CarPlay.
- On your iPhone, open Settings > General > CarPlay and pair your vehicle.
- Confirm Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections as prompted.
From that point forward, your iPhone will automatically connect wirelessly every time you start the car. There’s no need for third-party apps or repeated setup steps.
Performance
This adapter uses a combination of Bluetooth 5.3 and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz + 5.8 GHz). The result is fast, stable performance with ultra-low latency. In practice, this means:
- Maps update in real time without lag.
- Siri responds quickly to commands.
- Music and podcasts stream smoothly, with enhanced audio quality.
- Phone calls sound clear on both sides.
Reconnect speed is impressive — CarPlay typically launches within a few seconds of starting the car. Even on longer drives, the connection remains stable without dropouts.
Compatibility
The adapter is compatible with more than 800 car models produced since 2016, provided they already have factory wired CarPlay. It supports iPhones running iOS 10 or later, covering everything from older iPhone 6 models up to the latest releases. Note that it does not support Tesla or BMW systems.
Advantages
- Compact, stylish design that keeps the console uncluttered
- Plug-and-play setup that takes less than two minutes
- Automatic reconnection every time you start the vehicle
- Fast and stable wireless CarPlay thanks to Bluetooth 5.3 + dual-band Wi-Fi
- Wide compatibility across cars and iPhones
- Good customer support and one-year warranty
One Drawback
Like many wireless adapters, it can warm up during extended use, especially in direct sunlight. While performance is not typically affected, drivers in very hot climates may want to position it where ventilation is better.
Final Verdict
The Burnt Sugar Wireless CarPlay Adapter delivers on its promise: it transforms the inconvenience of wired CarPlay into a smooth wireless experience. With quick setup, stable performance, and a compact design, it’s one of the most practical upgrades for cars built in the last decade. For anyone who wants modern convenience without replacing their head unit, this adapter is an easy recommendation.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links and recommendations. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Opinions shared here are based on my personal experience.