If your RV has an older stereo that’ll give you some AM and FM stations here and there… but you’d love to play music from your smartphone or tablet wirelessly… this is the post for you. Believe it or not, it’s neither impossible nor difficult to upgrade an RV stereo to add Bluetooth capability. So, in this post, we tell you what you need to know to go wireless with your RV’s stereo system.
How Does Bluetooth Work In an RV?
Bluetooth is a wireless technology that uses radio frequencies to share data over a short distance, enabling you to stream music, podcasts, audiobooks, etc. from your mobile device (including smartphones, tablets, and even computers). Many vehicles, including RVs, come standard with the ability to connect devices to the vehicle’s stereo via Bluetooth technology. However, older RVs may not have the capacity to integrate with wireless technology due to the age of the stereo.
Fortunately, there are a few easy ways (two of which are very budget-friendly) to make it possible to use Bluetooth technology in an older rig to play whatever you want to listen to through your rig’s stereo speakers. The key here is that your phone, tablet, or computer (the source of the audio you want to come through your RV stereo’s speakers) must be able to connect/broadcast over Bluetooth for this to work.
Note: modern smartphones, tablets, and laptops should all have the capability of connecting via Bluetooth and transmitting audio. However, if you have something like an old flip phone, then your device is unlikely to be able to do this.
The best way to use Bluetooth technology in your RV depends on what ports are available on your RV’s stereo head unit. Many car and RV stereos have a 3.5mm stereo port (usually labeled “Aux In”). You can simply use a cable to hardwire your phone or tablet’s headphone jack to that input on the stereo if you wish. But many people prefer a wireless (Bluetooth) connection because they don’t want to have their phone/tablet tethered to the stereo by a cord.
With Bluetooth wireless integration, even a backseat passenger can control the audio from a Bluetooth-enabled device such as a smartphone or tablet.
PRO TIP: if your stereo doesn’t have a 3.5mm stereo input port, you may need to check your stereo’s owner’s manual or pull the unit out to get a look at the back to see if it has an aux input with analog RCA-style ports. These can be used in conjunction with the appropriate cable to allow a Bluetooth receiver to connect.
How to Easily Add Bluetooth to an RV Stereo
Depending on the stereo in your RV, there are a few different ways to go about making a connection between your phone/tablet and your rig’s stereo. Let’s take a look at three ways to give you the ability to DJ from your phone/tablet (or from your laptop if it has Bluetooth capability) and what you’ll need, depending on the method that works best in your situation.
Use a Bluetooth Receiver/Adapter
One way to bring Bluetooth technology into your RV is to use a Bluetooth receiver or adapter. These work for RV stereos that have an accessible “AUX IN” 3.5mm stereo port. The Bluetooth receiver plugs into that port and receives the audio signal from your Bluetooth-enabled phone, tablet, or computer.
If your RV’s stereo doesn’t have an AUX IN (3.5mm) port in the front of the unit, you may be able to connect a Bluetooth receiver/adapter to any analog RCA jacks on the unit. These jacks (or the auxiliary input) may be located on the back of your RV’s stereo. In this case, you’d need to access the back of the unit to plug in a Bluetooth receiver/adapter.
Pros and Cons of Bluetooth Adapters
Like anything else, there are pros and cons to Bluetooth adapter/receivers. In the way of advantages, a Bluetooth adapter/receiver allows you to connect a Bluetooth-enabled device to a non-Bluetooth-enabled speaker, headphones, or (in this case) a car or RV stereo.
This allows you to direct any sound (like music, podcasts, and audiobooks that you want to listen to as you travel) right through your RV’s stereo speakers. In many cases, this includes not only the speakers in the cabin up front but also speakers further back in the rig. This can be done from multiple devices as long as they’re equipped with Bluetooth technology.
Using the 3.5mm stereo “Aux In” port on the front of this RV stereo, we can connect a battery-powered Bluetooth receiver to allow our phone to stream audio through the RV’s speakers.
Connected this way, your RV’s stereo speakers can also be used during phone calls. While the phone’s built-in microphone will be what picks up the sound of your voice (so keep it close to your mouth when talking), your caller’s voice can be heard through the larger (and better?) speakers in the RV, allowing you to boost the volume so you can hear them better while driving.
Another advantage of a Bluetooth adapter is that you can often adjust the volume of the audio being streamed by using the volume controls on your source device (your smartphone/tablet/laptop) without having to reach the controls on the RV’s stereo. And depending on the model chosen, controls on the Bluetooth adapter will allow you to pause, play, or skip songs… acting as a set of secondary/remote controls for your smart device (so you don’t have to keep it handy).
The disadvantage, when compared with a wired connection, is that you may have a less stable/reliable signal. Having noted that, it’s generally not an issue in a small RV but could pose a problem in a larger rig (Bluetooth has a limited range and can be interfered with or blocked).
The best thing to do to counter this possibility is to read reviews from real-life users when you’re shopping for your Bluetooth adapter/receiver to make sure most reviewers note a good, strong connection and good reliability for the product. Check reviews to make sure users didn’t experience any audio delay and that the receiver/adapter held a strong connection (no drop-outs) with a good range (at least covering the length of your RV). You’ll also want to make sure the unit is compatible with your device (phone, tablet, computer).
Following are a couple of examples of Bluetooth Receivers/Adapters:
Swiitech 2-in-1 Bluetooth AUX Adapter
We have this auxiliary adapter (also called a Bluetooth receiver) and it works very well for us. It can be used in “Receive” mode (which is how you’d use it for streaming audio from another device into your RV’s stereo) or in “Transmit” mode (which can allow any device with a 3.5mm headphone port to stream audio to another Bluetooth device, like speakers):
- 2-in-1 Bluetooth Audio Adapter: In TX mode, the Bluetooth transmitter is plugged into non-Bluetooth devices, such as TV/MP3 player, through the...
- Low Delay of High Fidelity Stereo: Transmit content without delay in TX mode. It can be connected with Bluetooth speakers or headphones supporting...
One thing we particularly like about this unit is that you can keep it plugged into an available USB port (and thus fully charged up) while using it.
Anker Soundsync Bluetooth Receiver
Anker is a well-respected brand (we have and love a lot of their gear) and this little Bluetooth Receiver is a good option. It only acts as a receiver (which is all you need for this purpose), but it comes with a small, solid adapter that allows the unit to connect directly to a 3.5mm input on your stereo (keeping it out of the way):
- Bluetooth 5.0: The latest Bluetooth technology delivers an ultra-stable connection.
- Music Streaming: Stream from Bluetooth devices to non-Bluetooth headphones or speakers.
The Swiitech unit includes a short 3.5mm stereo port-to-RCA port adapter cable, but this Anker unit doesn’t. The cable is only needed if your RV’s stereo doesn’t have the small 3.5mm stereo input port and only has the RCA-style ports (likely located on the back of the stereo unit). If needed, you can buy a separate cable like the following:
- 3.5mm to 2RCA Audio Cable: UGREEN 3.5mm to 2RCA stereo cable is suitable for plugging the 3.5mm connector into the headphone jack of your mobile...
- Fantastic Audio Quality: Gold Plated connectors and copper of UGREEN RCA audio cable provide maximum's conductivity and durability, ensuring optimal...
Use an FM Transmitter
Another way to bring wireless technology into your RV is by using an FM transmitter. This is a device that connects to your smartphone/tablet via Bluetooth to receive the stream of audio. It then re-broadcasts that signal on an FM frequency. Once you tune your RV’s stereo to that same FM frequency, the audio from your device can play through your RV stereo’s speakers.
Pros and Cons of FM Transmitters
The main advantage of using an FM transmitter to connect your device to your RV stereo is that it’s an inexpensive and often reliable way to allow you to DJ your own audio entertainment from your device through your rig’s stereo as you travel. This is especially true for anyone whose RV stereo doesn’t include an auxiliary input port (like 3.5mm stereo or RCA) that they can connect to one of the Bluetooth adapters above.
An FM transmitter can have a few disadvantages, however. Some offer limited sound quality due to a compressed FM signal, resulting in a loss of fidelity and clarity. It’s also possible for the FM signal from the transmitter to be subject to interference from other radio signals (especially when driving long distances and crossing into range of new radio station transmitters). This can result in issues like distortion, static, or interruptions in audio playback. If there are frequency conflicts (with local area radio stations, for example), you could have to re-scan and change the broadcast frequency you’re using to find an available clear channel.
Allow anyone in your vehicle to be the DJ on your next road trip.
Another disadvantage (depending on your situation) is that the range of an FM transmitter is generally limited to somewhere around 30 feet at best. This is fine for the majority of situations, but just be aware that you’ll need to place the transmitter somewhere within range of your RV’s stereo.
With many FM transmitters, you typically don’t get the level of integration and functionality you’ll have with a Bluetooth unit. For example, you may not be able to adjust volume and control other factors of audio playback with an FM transmitter.
Despite the potential trade-offs in terms of sound quality, reliability, and functionality, FM transmitters offer a simple and inexpensive way to bring your audio enjoyment through your RV speakers.
Here are a couple of examples of FM transmitters that will work for you:
- 2-port USB car charger 3.0: supports charging two devices simultaneously, with one port being a quick charge 3.0 port. This fast charge port is also...
- Answer calls hands-free: A high-performance microphone with noise suppression CVC technology ensures crystal-clear calls. answering, redialing,...
![Nulaxy Car Bluetooth FM Transmitter [2024 Upgraded], 1.44' Display Flexible Gooseneck, Handsfree Call Wireless Music Stereo Audio Player Radio Adapter Car Kit USB Phone Charger, TF SD Card AUX-KM18](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41m92Lt6MhL._SL160_.jpg)
- 1.44 Inch LCD Display: Nulaxy 2024 Upgraded KM18 Bluetooth Adapter Aux Input&Output has a 1.44 inch screen for better displaying information like...
- Flexible Gooseneck: The rotatable Gooseneck of the wireless radio adapter can provide you with an adjustable viewing angle and optimal viewing comfort...
Replace Your RV Stereo
The third (and last) way to bring Bluetooth wireless technology into your RV is to replace your rig’s current stereo with a unit that has Bluetooth built-in. This could be beneficial because the new unit may also come with other updated features and enhancements such as Apple Carplay/Android Auto, a large touch screen, hands-free phone use, or even built-in navigation (less important if it has Carplay/Android Auto, as you can use navigation on your smart device instead).
Pros and Cons of Replacing Your RV’s Stereo
The benefit of a nice, new stereo for your RV is that not only will you have all of the advantages of integrated Bluetooth, but you may also get a number of other features (as noted above) that serve you well as you travel.
On the downside, replacing your RV’s stereo is the most expensive option of the three and the most complicated in terms of setup. But for some people, it’s well worth the expense and the installation time or cost.
Adding a new stereo head unit can bring a lot of upgrades, including a large touch screen and advanced features like Apple Carplay and/or Android Auto.
For much more on the option of replacing your RV stereo, please see our post entitled, “Pimp Your Ride’s Audio With These RV Radio Options.” In that post, we share how to determine which type of unit you need (single DIN or double DIN), and we also give you ten excellent options for replacement stereos for your rig.
Whether you choose to use a Bluetooth receiver/adapter, an FM transmitter, or to replace your stereo head completely, it’s not difficult and need not be expensive (in the case of the adapter or transmitter) to bring Bluetooth wireless technology into your RV so that you can be the DJ of your favorite music, podcasts, and audio books as you travel.
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Jay
Sunday 28th of September 2025
Radios used to have audio input jacks, but for some reason, not anymore. We have the Nulaxy FM transmitter. It works well, needs a stereo audio cable. Finding an open channel for it is the problem in most metro areas. I might find one and then enter another area where that frequency gets clobbered and I have to find another frequency. Bluetooth would be better if only it consistently worked. But the Bluetooth signal drops out every 15-30 seconds and that is most annoying! Besides the audio cable(s), each of these devices needs a power supply, either 12V or USB, and we have ended up with cables all over the top of the dash after adding several 12V accessory ports.
Jay
Sunday 29th of September 2024
Our FM transmitters are not Bluetooth. They have a 3.5 mm input port. With it, you can easily use an MP3 player and not tie up your phone plus use its battery for Bluetooth content. My FM transmitter has a USB port to keep the MP3 player charged up during long trips. Their range is not 30 feet. You may be lucky to get it to work 1 foot away from your radio. These are very low power devices per FCC rules. Here in the Houston metro area, almost every frequency is taken! That means that you might have no clear frequencies and have to settle on finding the frequency with the least amount of background noise. That requires the transmitter to be as close to the radio as possible in order for its signal output to be stronger than the background noise.
The FM transmitters require a 12V accessory port. Our current RV (Foretravel 2022 FS-450) didn't come with any, only USB ports! We had to add 3 of them and that might not be enough once we need to plug in our TPMS receiver.
Getting access to the back of your radio usually involves removing the mounting bezel that holds everything into the dash. If you have screws holding it in place, realize that they're going into plastic. Do not use any power tools to reinstall the screws or you could crack or widen the screw holes or crack the bezel. Once the bezel is removed, plan on where you are going to put it. All of the devices on it (backup camera, radio, heat/AC controls) can make it heavy. Don't just let it hang out of the opening or you might accidentally disconnect some things. Our prior vehicle had a subwoofer under that console and anything dropped (like connectors, wire insulation and screw clips) would fall onto the speaker causing a buzzing sound like the speaker was blown. Fortunately, there was an access panel to the subwoofer.
There is a tool that may help you look behind your dash and many other places without having to remove anything. It's called a borescope and it is essentially an endoscope. Yes, you can do a "colonoscopy" on your RV with these! There is a viewer screen and a fiberoptic tubing with a light source and lens on the end. Basically, you place it in an opening and advance it while looking at the view screen. 6 to 12 feet of length is plenty and the longer they are, the more unwieldy. They are relatively inexpensive on Amazon (my Nidage 4.3" screen dual lens scope was about $40). When your question is, "What's back there?" the borescope can be really handy.
[Example: This past week, I drilled a 1/2" hole in our MH's fiberglass front cap to install an XM antenna. I stuck a long Philips screw driver into the hole and couldn't find it. I placed the end of the borescope into a ceiling access area and found it the screw driver. Next, inserted a curved snake with antenna plug attached to it and pulled the antenna cable through. It was so much easier with the borescope. You will wonder how you ever survived without one.]