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How to Keep Playing CDs in Your Modern Car: Top Solutions Explored

Published on Jul 24, 2023 by Talia Mushinsky

"Do new cars still have CD players anymore?" - We bet you've asked this in today's high-speed digital era. No worries, we at Kunes Auto Group are ready to tackle this head-on. We're diving deep into the changing trends of the car infotainment system, and sharing some great tips for all you CD lovers out there. So, let's rev up and explore the world of car audio systems together, and find out where your beloved CD players stand in modern vehicles!

CD Players: The Vanishing Act from New Cars?

If we cast our minds back a few years, every car that rolled off the production line was equipped with a CD player - an indispensable component of any road trip or commute. However, a noticeable shift has occurred. Starting with 2017 models, CD players started to become as elusive as a hidden track on your favorite album. But what's driving this change?

The Rise of Digital Music and Streaming Platforms

The answer is pretty straightforward and can be summed up in two words: digital music. With the advent of music streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, our listening habits have fundamentally changed.

 

These services offer access to millions of songs at the tap of a screen, with personalized playlists and recommendations based on our listening history. Plus, with advances in mobile data speeds and the widespread availability of Wi-Fi, streaming music in your car is as seamless as playing music from a CD, if not more so.

New Tech Replacing CD Players in Modern Cars

In addition to streaming music, technological innovations have provided new methods of connecting our devices to our cars. Features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto allow us to wirelessly link our smartphones to our vehicles, providing easy access to not just our personal music libraries, but also navigation apps, text messaging services, and more.

man smiling while changing the music playing in his car

What If You Want to Play CDs in Your Car?

In the fast-paced world of technology, new inventions and updates constantly pop up, and the auto industry is no exception. With the rise of digital music streaming platforms, CD players in cars are becoming less common.

But what if you're not quite ready to let go of your CDs? Are you left out in the cold? Not at all! If you're asking, "Can I add a CD player to my new car?" - the answer is a resounding yes. Let's talk about how you can keep spinning your favorite discs on the road.

For those of us who love the quality sound of a CD or have cherished collections of albums, it can be a little saddening to think that new cars are moving away from including CD players as standard features. But don't worry! At Kunes Auto Group, we've got you covered.

If you're a die-hard fan of CDs, don't fret. Even though CD players are not a standard feature in many new cars, there are alternatives. Portable CD players that connect to your car's audio system via an auxiliary cable or Bluetooth are an option.

Some manufacturers even offer CD players as an optional add-on. Furthermore, you can always digitize your CD collection, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tunes in your car without the need for a physical disc.

Keep the Music Playing: USB CD Player and Adapter

You might think that without a CD player in your car, your stacks of CDs will gather dust. But, there's a simple solution - a USB CD player and adapter. These handy gadgets are widely available and straightforward to install. Simply plug the adapter into your car's USB port, connect it to the CD player, and voila - you're all set to rock out to your favorite CDs on the go!

Before buying, make sure the devices can run on your car's power system and are safe for use in a moving vehicle. Some DVD players function as CD players and are designed for use in stationary settings and may not function properly or safely in a car.

Install a CD Player in Your New Car - Yes, It's Possible!

Contrary to what some may believe, adding a CD player to your new vehicle isn't an impossible task. There's a plethora of aftermarket solutions available for the discerning audiophile. These allow you to continue enjoying your beloved CD collection, even if your car didn't come with a built-in CD player.

Choosing to Add a CD Player to Your Car

Adding a CD player to your new car is an entirely personal decision. If you find joy in the nostalgia of your CD collection and enjoy the tangible connection that comes with handling physical media, an aftermarket car CD player could be the perfect solution for you.

DIY Installation or Professional Help?

Depending on how comfortable you are with car modifications, you could install these aftermarket CD players in most modern cars by yourself. However, it's important to note that installing a CD player can involve dismantling some parts of your car's interior, such as trim and dashboard components.

If you're not sure about the process, or you're hesitant to take apart your car's interior, don't worry! You can always seek professional help from a sound installation specialist. Some auto shops offer installation services for your cars with aftermarket additions. These professionals have the skills and experience to install your new CD player efficiently and correctly, ensuring you'll be jamming to your favorite CDs in no time.

Turning Your CDs into Digital Files

If you're not keen on adding another gadget to your car, you might consider converting your CDs into digital files. With some basic computer skills, you can upload your entire CD collection to your smartphone or a USB stick.

 

There are plenty of free or low-cost programs available that can help you do this. Once you've converted your music, you can play your favorite tracks through your car's sound system via Bluetooth or a USB connection.

The bonus of this method is that it not only saves space in your car, but also allows you to create custom playlists. You can have all your favorite songs from various CDs at your fingertips, without needing to swap out discs while driving.

Buy A Used or Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle with A CD Player

At Kunes Auto Group, we're ensuring that your musical preferences are catered to. Our diverse selection of reliable used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles includes many models equipped with CD players, making your favorite CD collection an integral part of every journey.

More than a mere trip down memory lane, these used and certified pre-owned vehicles come with tangible benefits - they are generally more cost-effective, depreciate at a slower pace, and carry lower insurance rates.

Each used vehicle in our lot undergoes thorough quality checks, so you can drive off with not just a reliable vehicle, but also peace of mind. Purchasing a used or certified pre-owned vehicle from our inventory is more than just acquiring a trustworthy vehicle - it's about ensuring your beloved music stays alive.

So, why wait any longer? Start exploring our inventory today and find the perfect ride that accompanies your favorite music.

driver inserting a CD into their car's CD player

Are CD Players Still in New Cars?

There's a certain magic to CDs, isn't there? Whether it's the shiny surface of the disc, the physical sensation of inserting a disc into the CD player, or the nostalgia of listening to an entire album as the artist intended, CDs offer a unique musical experience. In the world of Spotify and Apple Music, one might wonder: do new cars still come with CD players anymore?

 

Let's delve into this subject and uncover which new cars might still offer the joy of listening to CDs.

Hey, CD music fans, don't pack up your collections just yet! Even as the auto industry pushes toward a digital future, there's still room for the beloved CD player. At Kunes Auto Group, we understand that some drivers aren't ready to give up their CDs. If you're one of them, you'll be thrilled to hear that certain car models of 2022 and 2023 still come with a CD player.

 

Let's find out which ones.

Yes, New Cars with CD Players Still Exist!

Believe it or not, not all car manufacturers have abandoned CD players just yet. A few new vehicles and models out there still cater to the CD lovers among us. If you've got a fantastic CD collection that you're not ready to part with, there are new car models available that let you keep the CD party going.

Find CD Players in Modern Vehicles from Popular Brands

Renowned car manufacturers like Chevrolet and Mercedes-Benz haven't completely ditched the CD player. Vehicles like the 2023 Subaru Forester, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, and 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC are a testament to this. These models still offer a built-in standard CD player, allowing you to take your favorite albums on the road.

It's worth noting, though, that in a few vehicles, the CD player is considered an added feature. This means you might need to select a specific model or purchase an upgrade to enjoy the classic CD experience. Remember to check with your dealer to confirm this feature before purchasing.

At Kunes Auto Group, we're here to help you find your perfect car – CD player and all. Whether you're a die-hard CD player fan or a digital music lover, we believe in providing a driving experience tailored to your needs. Don't hesitate to reach out to us or visit your local Kunes dealership to discover the wide range of options available.

driver adjusts volume on their car's stereo

So, What's Next for Car Audio Systems?

The car audio landscape is evolving rapidly, with vehicle manufacturers striving to deliver the most convenient, user-friendly entertainment systems possible. As we look forward, we can expect more advancements that further integrate our cars with our digital lives.

The Future of Car's Infotainment System

As technology advances, audio systems are leaning towards digital platforms like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. These features provide easy access to a world of music, podcasts, and more, straight from your dashboard. But that doesn't mean CDs are forgotten. Their nostalgic charm and tangible connection to our favorite music remains appreciated.

We aim to keep you updated on the latest trends in the world of automobiles to ensure your experience is second to none. Be it jamming to modern hits via advanced systems or reliving cherished memories with your CD collection, we want to ensure your drives are always musically enriched.

Our mission is to make your car journeys exciting and memorable, regardless of how you choose to listen to your music. Stay tuned to our blog for more updates from the automotive world. Until then, drive safe and enjoy your journey with the best tunes, your way!

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