Upgrading a Volvo V60 (2011–2020 models) with an aftermarket Android head unit is an excellent way to add modern features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a large touchscreen. While many kits are advertised as 'plug and play,' the installation is a moderately involved process. It requires careful disassembly of the dashboard and, most critically, transferring the factory fiber optic audio cables to the new wiring harness to ensure your sound system functions correctly.
Replacing the original infotainment system in your Volvo V60 with an Android head unit is more than just a cosmetic change; it's a complete functional overhaul. An Android head unit is a replacement car stereo that runs a version of the Android operating system, giving you a smartphone-like experience directly in your dashboard. This opens up a world of possibilities that the stock system simply cannot offer, transforming your daily drive.
The primary benefit is gaining access to modern phone integration platforms. Most aftermarket units for the V60 offer both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly mirror your phone's essential apps—like Waze, Google Maps, Spotify, and messaging apps—onto the car's larger, high-definition touchscreen. This integration also enables superior voice commands via Google Assistant or Siri, making navigation and communication safer and more convenient.
Beyond phone mirroring, these units bring a host of other improvements. They typically include built-in GPS navigation, enhanced Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and support for additional hardware like backup cameras. A crucial feature is the integration with your car's existing systems. A quality head unit will come with a CANBUS decoder, which allows it to communicate with your Volvo, retaining vital functions like steering wheel controls (SWC).
When evaluating options, it's helpful to distinguish between essential and desirable features. Here’s a quick breakdown to guide your decision:
| Feature Category | Must-Have Features | Nice-to-Have Features |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, Bluetooth 5.0+, CANBUS Decoder for SWC | 4G/LTE SIM card slot, multiple USB ports |
| Display | HD Touchscreen (e.g., 1280x720), good daylight visibility | QLED display for better color, anti-glare coating |
| Performance | At least 4GB RAM, 64GB Storage, responsive processor | 8GB+ RAM for heavy multitasking, latest Android OS version |
| Audio | Clean audio output, support for factory sound system | Digital Signal Processor (DSP) for advanced audio tuning, high-voltage pre-outs |
Selecting the correct Android head unit for your Volvo V60 is critical to ensure a smooth installation and full functionality. The market is filled with options, but not all are created equal. The most important factor is compatibility with your specific model year, which for this upgrade is typically the 2011 through 2020 generation. Always double-check the product listing and, if possible, contact the seller with your car's year and a photo of your dashboard to confirm fitment before you buy.
You will encounter two main types of upgrades: full head unit replacements and add-on modules. A full replacement, as the name implies, swaps out the factory screen and sometimes the CD player unit with an all-in-one Android system. These offer the most integrated experience. An add-on module, like those from Grom Audio, connects to your existing OEM screen and adds CarPlay/Android Auto functionality without replacing the factory hardware. Modules are often simpler to install but offer less flexibility than a full Android system.
For those seeking a full replacement, some units are designed to perfectly match the vehicle's aesthetics. For instance, some manufacturers like Witson offer 8.8-inch screen upgrades with a dual-system design that keeps original car functions intact, providing a modern system that blends with the factory interior. This approach gives you modern apps while retaining the familiar OEM interface when needed.
To avoid common pitfalls, use this compatibility checklist when shopping:
Model Year: Confirm the unit is specified for your V60's year (e.g., 2011-2018, 2014-2019, etc.).
Wiring Harness: Ensure the kit includes a 'plug and play' harness with the correct Quadlock connector for your Volvo.
CANBUS Decoder: Verify that a CANBUS box is included to retain steering wheel controls, climate information, and other vehicle data.
Fiber Optic Support: The harness must have a provision to transfer the original orange fiber optic cables. This is non-negotiable for the audio to work.
Installing an Android head unit in a Volvo V60 is a rewarding DIY project, but it requires patience and the right tools. While many sellers claim 'plug and play,' real-world experiences from owners on forums like Swedespeed show it's a bit more complex. Before you begin, gather your tools, which will typically include a set of plastic trim removal tools, a T25 Torx screwdriver, and possibly a small flathead screwdriver.
Safety First: Before you touch any wiring, disconnect the negative terminal of your car's battery to prevent electrical shorts.
Follow these general steps for the installation. Note that specific details may vary slightly depending on your head unit model.
Remove Dash Trim: Start by carefully prying off the trim pieces surrounding the screen and center console. This usually begins with the large speaker grille/vent assembly on top of the dashboard. Use plastic tools to avoid scratching the panels.
Unscrew the Factory Unit: Once the trim is removed, you will see the T25 Torx screws holding the factory screen and CD player/control unit in place. Remove these screws and gently pull the components out of the dash.
Disconnect Factory Wiring: Detach the main Quadlock connector and any other cables from the back of the factory unit. Take a photo of the connections before unplugging everything so you have a reference.
Transfer the Fiber Optic Cables: This is the most critical step. Your factory Quadlock connector will have two orange fiber optic cables. These control the audio signal. You must carefully remove them from the original plug and insert them into the corresponding slots on the new wiring harness's connector.
CRITICAL WARNING: If you do not transfer the orange fiber optic cables to the new harness, you will have no sound from your speakers. The car's amplifier will not receive a signal. Ensure they click securely into place.
Connect the New Harness: Plug the new wiring harness into the factory connectors and then into your new Android head unit. Connect the GPS antenna, Wi-Fi antenna, and any other included cables.
Mount the New Head Unit: Secure the new screen and any associated modules into the dashboard using the original mounting points and screws.
Test All Functions: Reconnect the car battery and turn on the ignition. Before you reassemble the entire dashboard, test everything thoroughly. Check that the screen powers on, audio is working, steering wheel controls respond, the backup camera engages, and you can connect to Bluetooth.
Reassemble the Dashboard: Once you've confirmed everything works, carefully snap all the trim pieces back into place in the reverse order of removal.
Once the physical installation is complete, the final step is to configure the software to get the most out of your new system. The first time you power on the unit, it will boot into the Android interface. Your initial setup will involve personalizing the system and connecting it to your devices.
First, connect the head unit to the internet. The easiest way to do this is by activating the Wi-Fi hotspot on your smartphone and connecting the head unit to it. This will allow you to download apps from the Google Play Store, update system software, and use online services for navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze.
Next, pair your smartphone via Bluetooth. Navigate to the Bluetooth settings menu on the head unit and on your phone to establish a connection. This is essential for hands-free calling and streaming audio from your phone. This initial Bluetooth pairing is also often the first step to enabling wireless CarPlay or Android Auto.
To set up wireless Android Auto or Apple CarPlay:
Ensure both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your smartphone.
Open the dedicated app on the head unit (it may be named Zlink, TLink, or something similar).
Follow the on-screen prompts. The system will use the Bluetooth connection to initiate a direct Wi-Fi link with your phone, which then launches the CarPlay or Android Auto interface.
If you run into issues, a common troubleshooting step is to 'forget' the device on both your phone and the head unit and restart the pairing process. Properly configured, the system should automatically connect to your phone and launch your preferred interface every time you start the car.
For most Volvo V60 models from 2011-2020 that did not come with Android Auto from the factory, the most effective way to add it is by installing an aftermarket infotainment system. This can be either a full Android head unit replacement that comes with the feature built-in, or an add-on module that integrates with your existing factory screen. Both methods are covered in this guide.
Yes, you can absolutely add Android Auto to a car that wasn't originally equipped with it. The most common solutions are installing an aftermarket head unit with Android Auto built-in, using an add-on interface kit that works with the factory screen, or using a portable dash-mounted display that connects to your phone wirelessly.
The 'best' head unit depends on your specific needs and budget. For a Volvo V60, the most important factors are guaranteed compatibility with your model year, a high-quality CANBUS decoder to retain factory functions like steering wheel controls, and reliable support for the fiber optic audio system. It's crucial to read recent reviews and choose a unit from a reputable seller that offers good customer support.
