How I Added Dual Screens to My 2015 Acura ILX Base (CarPlay + 2 Backup Cameras)
I drive a 2015 Acura ILX Base — the version with the tiny top display and almost no plug-and-play upgrade path. After failing to find a kit, I built a custom solution that keeps the OEM screen while adding a 7" Android head unit for Apple CarPlay.
- Top screen: 7" Android head unit (CarPlay, apps, wide-angle reverse cam)
- Lower screen: OEM i-MID display relocated to the lower cubby (shows OEM sources / close-up reverse cam)
- Total parts cost: about $250 (not including tools and your time)
What I Wanted
My goals were simple: a bigger screen with CarPlay, keep OEM info, and add two reverse camera views (wide and close). The trick is the Base trim’s top cluster houses two separate OEM displays. To fit a 7" screen, you must either work around, move, or replace them.
The Finished Setup
How I Did It (High Level)
- Remove the upper bezel and OEM displays. Use plastic pry tools, keep track of clips and screws.
- Trim the bezel opening to fit a 7" Android head unit. Go slow with a Dremel and sand smooth for clean edges.
- Mount the Android screen using a custom bracket (fabricated or 3D-printed) and secure from the rear.
- Relocate the OEM i-MID display down into the lower cubby; extend the harness and make a simple bracket.
- Power the Android HU from switched power using an add-a-fuse at the cabin fuse panel.
- Split the reverse camera signal so both screens can show it (wide view to Android, close-up to OEM if desired).
About the HVAC Display (Read This Before You Cut)
The Base trim’s upper cluster contains two OEM displays: the main i-MID and a separate narrow HVAC status display below it. You have three options:
- Keep the HVAC display in place by trimming only around it. (Easiest. Leaves climate readouts up top.)
- Relocate the HVAC display to the lower area together with the i-MID (requires harness extension).
- Use a CANBUS decoder compatible with 9th-gen Civic/ILX to render HVAC status directly on the Android HU UI.
Parts & Cost Snapshot
- 7" Android head unit (wired/wireless CarPlay)
- Add-a-fuse, inline fuse, wiring, terminals, loom
- Bracket materials (plastic/metal) or 3D-printed mount
- Optional: video splitter for dual reverse feeds
- Approx. parts total: ~$250 (varies by HU and hardware)
Easier Alternative: Full T-Style Vertical Screen Upgrade
If you like CarPlay/Android apps and a large display for your Acura ILX but don’t want to cut, relocate, and rewire, there’s a plug-and-play option:
- Directly replaces your OEM radio stack
- Large vertical touchscreen with CarPlay & Android Auto
- Integrates HVAC controls on-screen (no lost climate display)
See the Acura ILX T-Style Android CarPlay Radio →
Final Thoughts
This is a custom, labor-heavy mod, but it transforms the ILX Base experience. If you want to keep climate readouts, plan your approach to the HVAC display before cutting. If enough people are interested, I can document the wiring and mounting templates in detail—send me a message.
Questions? DM me or WhatsApp: +852 7048 2941
