How to Add Bluetooth to an Older Car

Bluetooth has become a near essential feature in modern vehicles, offering hands free calls, wireless audio streaming, and access to digital assistants, all without tangled wires or aftermarket clutter. But what if your car pre dates this wireless convenience?

You don’t need to rip out your head unit or fork out for a full infotainment system. Adding Bluetooth to an older car is easier (and cheaper) than you might think. Here’s how to do it right.

Contact us to report infringement.

Why Add Bluetooth?

First, the benefits:

• Hands free calling (for legal compliance and safety)

• Wireless audio streaming from Spotify, Apple Music, or navigation apps

• Reduced cable mess

• Some systems allow voice control via Google Assistant or Siri

In the UK, using a handheld phone while driving can land you a £200 fine and 6 penalty points. Bluetooth helps you stay connected and legal.

Option 1: Bluetooth FM Transmitters (from £10 to £30)

Best for: Those on a tight budget who don’t mind using the FM radio

Ease of installation: Extremely easy, plug and play

Limitations: Audio quality can be hit or miss, especially in busy radio areas

An FM transmitter plugs into your 12V cigarette lighter socket and pairs with your phone via Bluetooth. It then transmits the audio to your car’s FM radio using an unused frequency.

Top Picks:

• Nulaxy KM30: Solid all rounder with USB charging

• VicTsing T25: Compact with a built in microphone

Look for one with noise cancelling mics, dual USB ports, and aptX support if available.

Setup Tip:

• Find a free FM frequency (between 87.5 to 108.0 MHz)

• Set your car radio and transmitter to the same

• Pair your phone via Bluetooth

Option 2: AUX In Bluetooth Adapters (from £15 to £50)

Best for: Cars with an aux input (3.5mm jack)

Ease of installation: Simple plug in solution

Limitations: Wires can clutter up your dash

If your stereo has a 3.5mm auxiliary input, a Bluetooth aux adapter is a cleaner solution. It connects directly to your stereo input and offers a more stable audio signal than FM transmitters.

Recommended Devices:

• Anker SoundSync Drive: Great call quality, aut oreconnect

• Mpow BH129: Budget friendly with dual connection

You’ll still need to power the adapter via USB or 12V port, so routing cables neatly is key for a clean install.

Option 3: Bluetooth Cassette Adapters (from £10 to £25)

Best for: Really old cars with cassette decks

Ease of installation: Basic plug and play

Limitations: Lower sound quality, shorter lifespan

Yes, they still make these. A Bluetooth cassette adapter mimics a standard cassette tape but has a built in Bluetooth receiver. You insert it like any other tape, pair it with your phone, and play.

Tip:

• Check compatibility, some only support mono sound or don’t include a microphone for calls.

While not the most modern solution, it’s a decent fix if your car is still rocking the ‘90s.

Option 4: Aftermarket Bluetooth Car Kits (from £30 to £90)

Best for: Drivers who want better audio and hands, free calling

Ease of installation: Slightly more involved but still DIY friendly

Limitations: May require mounting a mic or control button

These kits integrate Bluetooth calling and music into your existing stereo using either AUX, FM, or hardwired connections. Brands like Parrot, Kinivo, and Besign offer complete kits with microphones and multi function control pads.

Recommended:

• Kinivo BTC450: Excellent mic and audio quality for the price

• Parrot CK3100: More expensive, but professional grade

Expect clearer call quality and more stable Bluetooth connections with these kits.

Option 5: Replacing the Stereo Faceplate (from £70+)

Best for: Those wanting native Bluetooth with clean dash integration

Ease of installation: Intermediate (may require tools and fascia kits)

Limitations: More costly; requires removing your head unit

If you're not strictly against changing part of your stereo setup, replacing just the faceplate with a modern Bluetooth compatible head unit is a solid middle ground.

Brands like Pioneer, Sony, and Kenwood offer units with built in Bluetooth, USB, and even DAB+ support.

Make sure you get:

• A compatible wiring harness adapter

• The correct fascia plate for your vehicle model

• A steering wheel control adapter, if needed

This is the best option for a factory style look with modern features.

Legal Note for UK Drivers

Under The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, it’s illegal to hold or interact with a phone while driving. A Bluetooth solution lets you answer calls hands free, provided it's set up before you start the engine and doesn’t require touching during operation.

Final Thoughts

Adding Bluetooth to your older car doesn’t mean gutting the dash or spending a fortune. From quick fixes like FM transmitters to full featured kits and replacement head units, there’s a solution for every car and budget.

Whatever route you choose, focus on:

• Stable connectivity

• Clear mic quality

• Ease of use while driving

Your car may be older, but your tech doesn’t have to be.

Danny Floyd

Car Tech & Mods Specialist, Upgrades & Tech Column