What's the best Android app for casting my phone screen to an older car stereo that doesn't have Android Auto?

Mirror Link is an app designed to project an Android smartphone's display directly onto a compatible car infotainment system. For drivers with vehicles that lack built-in smartphone integration like Android Auto, this app provides a functional workaround. It facilitates navigation, media playback, and access to other apps directly on the car's larger screen. Key features include support for both USB and Wi-Fi connections for flexibility, audio streaming to the car's speakers, and touchscreen pass-through control on supported head units. This makes it particularly useful for using Google Maps or Waze for navigation or accessing a personal music library during a commute.

However, the app's implementation has notable caveats. Widespread user feedback indicates the app frequently prompts users for a five-star rating to unlock full functionality, a practice that raises questions about its review authenticity. Compatibility is also not universal; success depends heavily on the specific make and model of the car's stereo. Some users report stable connections, while others encounter lag or connection drops. The interface is generally considered functional rather than polished. For those with confirmed compatible hardware, Mirror Link can bridge a technological gap, but it requires managing expectations around reliability and its somewhat insistent rating system.