MMI System Guide

Apple CarPlay for Audi MMI 3G

MMI 3G is one of the most common Audi infotainment systems we upgrade. This guide explains what MMI 3G is, how to identify it in your Audi, and how our wireless CarPlay retrofit integrates with it.

What Is Audi MMI 3G?

MMI 3G is Audi's third-generation Multi Media Interface system, introduced around 2009 and fitted across a wide range of models through to 2018. It consists of a colour display mounted in the dashboard and a rotary controller on the centre console, surrounded by softkeys. The system handles navigation, audio, telephone, vehicle settings and driver assistance displays through a menu structure that predates the newer MIB interface.

MMI 3G is distinct from MMI 2G (older, simpler), MMI 3G+ (which adds a touchpad surface to the rotary dial), and MIB (which uses a flatter, more modern menu structure). Because the harness connection and DIP switch configuration differ between these systems, identifying MMI 3G correctly is the first step in ordering the right CarPlay kit.

How to Identify MMI 3G in Your Audi

You can identify MMI 3G by looking at the controller and the screen menus. Here is what to look for:

  • A colour MMI screen (not monochrome) mounted in the centre of the dashboard
  • A rotary dial controller on the centre console — plain, with no touchpad surface on top
  • Four softkeys surrounding the rotary dial (Media, Nav, Tel, Car)
  • Pre-MIB menu structure with nested menus and the older Audi interface layout
  • Typically fitted to Audi models from 2009–2018 (check the compatibility table below)

If your rotary dial has a touchpad surface (a flat area you can write letters on), you have MMI 3G+, not MMI 3G. See our MMI 3G+ guide instead.

How the CarPlay Retrofit Interfaces with MMI 3G

The CarPlay module does not replace the MMI 3G system. It connects inline with the factory MMI harness, sitting between the factory connectors and the MMI unit. When CarPlay is active, it appears on the factory screen. When you need the factory MMI — for navigation, vehicle settings, or the reverse camera — it remains available underneath.

Factory Screen Retained

CarPlay renders on the same factory MMI 3G display. No screen replacement, no additional monitor.

MMI Controller Retained

The rotary dial and softkeys continue to work. You navigate CarPlay using the same controller you already use.

Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto

Pair once over Bluetooth and CarPlay or Android Auto connects automatically every drive. No cables after setup.

Audio Through Factory System

Music, calls and navigation audio route through the factory sound system, including Bang & Olufsen where fitted.

Audi Models Fitted with MMI 3G

These are the verified Audi models and year ranges where MMI 3G was fitted, based on our supplier compatibility database. We confirm the exact system for your vehicle before dispatch.

Audi ModelYears
Audi A12012–2018
Audi A42010–2016
Audi A52009–2016
Audi A62009–2011
Audi A62012–2015
Audi A72009–2015
Audi A82010–2018
Audi Q32013–2018
Audi Q52010–2018
Audi Q72010–2015

Related Guides

MMI 3G CarPlay FAQs

What is Audi MMI 3G?

MMI 3G is Audi's third-generation Multi Media Interface, fitted to many Audi models from 2009–2018. It features a colour screen, a rotary controller on the centre console, and pre-MIB menu structures. It is one of the most common MMI systems we retrofit CarPlay to.

How do I identify MMI 3G in my Audi?

Look for a colour MMI screen with a plain rotary dial controller — no touchpad surface on the dial. The menu structure uses the older Audi layout with nested menus. If your controller has a touchpad, you likely have MMI 3G+ instead.

What information do you need to confirm compatibility?

We need your Audi model, year, and ideally a photo of the centre console showing the MMI controller and screen. This lets us confirm the exact MMI variant and ensure you receive the correct harness.

Does the retrofit replace the MMI 3G system?

No. The CarPlay module integrates alongside the factory MMI 3G system. Your original menus, navigation, reverse camera and all factory features remain available. CarPlay appears as an additional source on the screen.

Which Audi models have MMI 3G?

MMI 3G was fitted to the Audi A1, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Q3, Q5 and Q7 within specific year ranges. Check the compatibility table on this page for verified year ranges.

Does the steering wheel controller still work with CarPlay?

Yes. The rotary MMI controller, steering wheel buttons and voice control all continue to work. You can navigate CarPlay using the same controller you already use for the factory MMI.

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