Bluetooth Music Controller for your older car

If your car is more than 7 years old, the odds are that its music player lacks the connectivity functions that will allow it to pair with your smartphone. Though it may have an AUX jack, skipping tracks or answering phone calls while driving, will still be a pipe dream to you.

Some might think that the only viable alternative is to purchase a new music system. Though that might be true if you want the latest and greatest tech, it isn’t necessarily the case here. As long as your music player has an AUX jack, all you need is a simple and cheap Bluetooth receiver. These miniature devices are usually powered off of a button cell battery (CR2032) that offer about a year’s worth of power.

Pairing it with your smartphone is as easy as any other Bluetooth enabled device. And once connected, you will be able to skip, pause and play songs till your heart’s content. And due to their diminutive size, these devices can be mounted on your centre console or steering wheel with the use of a small piece of double-sided tape.

Our review unit looked far more premium than it was. The front fascia featured a silver outer casing (faux metal) that enclosed the rubberized music control buttons. Underneath are tactile switches that require firm and direct pressure to function properly. There were several instances where I simply could not pause and resume my songs. Due to the nature of the button placement, I couldn’t accurately place my finger over the proper location. 

The entire base is made from plastic, which includes the rear hatch that needs to be removed for battery replacement. It’s fairly simple to open because it’s only held on by a single clip. For what it’s worth, this miniaturized hockey puck can be an incredible asset, at least that was the case with my 2010 Volvo S40. The car has a killer sound system but a rudimentary music player. It’s only saving grace is the availability of the AUX jack under the centre armrest.

The smartphone is plugged into the audio system via the aux jack. Then, it’s connected through Bluetooth to the music controller. I mounted mine behind the steering wheel to conceal it’s presence. Despite the premium look, it would still stick out like a sore thumb if mounted some where more noticeable. And that’s that. It’s one of those devices that you wouldn’t know was there unless you were intentionally looking for it.

Even if your car music player has Bluetooth functionality but lacks steering mounted multimedia controls, this gadget can be just as useful. As long as your smartphone supports it, these little things can make life far more convenient for those who’s cars have limited multimedia functionality.

Hope this feature was helpful, happy listening!