1. Introduction
The ESSGOO H16 Portable Carplay Touch Screen Car Stereo is a versatile in-car entertainment and safety system designed to upgrade your driving experience without complex installation. It features an 11.3-inch 4K HD display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a dual-lens dashcam for comprehensive recording. This device enhances driving convenience and safety with features like G-sensor, loop recording, and parking monitoring.
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your ESSGOO H16 device. Please read it carefully before use to ensure optimal performance and safety.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package contents to ensure all items are present:
- 1 x ESSGOO H16 Main Unit (11.3-inch display with integrated front camera)
- 1 x Base Bracket
- 1 x Telescopic Long Arm Fixed Bracket
- 1 x 3M Fixed Bracket Base
- 1 x Car Charger
- 1 x Screwdriver
- 1 x Audio AUX Line
- 1 x Rear View Camera (with 7m / 22ft 11.59in cable)
- 1 x User Manual
- 1 x 64GB TF Card (Optional, may vary by package)

3. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | H16 |
| Display Size | 11.3 inches |
| Display Resolution | 1440*540 |
| Operating System | Linux |
| Front Camera Video Resolution | 4K (3840*2160P) |
| Rear Camera Video Resolution | 1080P (1920*1080P) |
| Front Camera Lens Angle | 170° wide angle |
| Rear Camera Lens Angle | 160° wide angle |
| Touch Screen | Yes |
| Built-in DVD Player | No |
| Din Size | One Din |
| Special Features | WiFi function, CarPlay, Android Auto, Reversing Input, Split Screen |
| Digital Media Format | JPEG |
| OSD Language | Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), German, Russian, Dutch, Turkish, Spanish, English |
| Audio Output | Support local speaker + FM + AUX + BT |
| Storage Card Support | Maximum 256GB TF card (microSD card) |
| Certifications | CE, FCC |
| Warranty | 1 year |
4. Setup and Installation
The ESSGOO H16 is designed for easy, non-destructive installation, compatible with most car models without requiring disassembly of the original car device.
4.1 Installation Methods
There are two primary ways to install your H16 device:
- Base Bracket Installation: Simply place the main unit with the base bracket directly on the appropriate car center console. This method offers a lower height, which can help reduce visual blind spots.
- Suction Cup Long Arm Installation: Attach the suction cup long arm to the main unit. Tear off the 3M adhesive film from the base and fix it directly on the car center console or windshield.


4.2 Rear View Camera Installation
The rear view camera provides a 1080P resolution and 160° wide-angle view, with reversing assist functionality. Connect the rear camera cable to the AV IN port on the main unit. Route the cable carefully to avoid interference with vehicle operations. For detailed wiring, refer to the included user manual or consult a professional installer.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Power On/Off
Connect the car charger to your vehicle's 12V power outlet and the device. The device will typically power on automatically when the vehicle starts. To power off, disconnect the car charger or use the power button on the device if available.
5.2 Display Modes
The H16 offers flexible screen display modes, including full screen and split screen. You can switch between these modes to view navigation, music, and dashcam footage simultaneously or focus on a single application.
5.3 Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto
The H16 supports both wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, calls, and messaging.
5.3.1 Apple CarPlay Connection
- Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your iPhone.
- On the H16, select the Bluetooth device starting with "TFXXX" and then select "Pair".
- Wait for approximately 20-30 seconds.
- Select "Use CarPlay" on your iPhone.
- The device will enter CarPlay mode.
5.3.2 Android Auto Connection
Note: For Android Auto, please confirm that your phone is Android 11 or higher version.
- Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on your Android phone.
- On the H16, click on "Bluetooth" to enter the search page.
- Select your device from the "New Bluetooth devices" list (starting with "TFXXX") and then click "Connect".
- Wait for approximately 15 seconds.
- The device will enter Android Auto mode.

5.4 Mirror Link (Airplay & Android Mirror)
With Airplay (for iOS) and Android Mirror, you can project your smartphone screen content directly onto the H16's large touch display. This allows for easier use of smartphone functions while maintaining focus on the road.
5.5 Audio Output Options
The H16 has built-in speakers, but for a more immersive audio experience, it is recommended to connect to your car's audio system using one of the following methods:
- Bluetooth 5.0: Connect your mobile device wirelessly to the H16 via Bluetooth for audio synchronization. Ensure your car audio system is in Bluetooth mode and your mobile device's Bluetooth is enabled and connected to the H16.
- AUX Connection: Use the provided AUX cable to physically connect your mobile device to the H16, and then connect the H16's AUX output to your car's AUX input. Ensure both your car audio system and the H16 are set to AUX mode. This provides high-quality sound with a physical connection.
- FM Transmitter: The H16 can transmit audio to your car stereo via an FM frequency. Set both your car stereo and the H16 to FM mode, and tune your car radio to the same frequency as the H16's FM transmitter. Note that sound quality may be affected by wireless interference.

5.6 Dash Cam Features
5.6.1 Dual Camera Recording
The H16 features a built-in 4K front camera (170° wide-angle) and supports a 1080P rear camera (160° wide-angle) for comprehensive recording. The rear camera also provides a reversing assist function.

5.6.2 True WDR Technology
Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) technology allows the dashcam to capture clear images in challenging lighting conditions, such as strong backlighting or low light. It balances exposure to ensure details are visible in both bright and dark areas of the recording.
5.6.3 Loop Recording
Loop recording ensures continuous recording by automatically overwriting the oldest video files when the memory card is full. This means you never have to worry about running out of storage space for new recordings.
5.6.4 G-Sensor & Emergency Lock
The built-in G-sensor detects sudden movements or collisions. In the event of an impact, it automatically locks the current video footage to prevent it from being overwritten, securing important evidence.
5.6.5 24-Hour Parking Monitoring
When connected to a hardwire kit (not included), the H16 can monitor your vehicle for 24 hours. If it detects movement or collision while parked, it will automatically start recording, providing security even when you're away from your car.
5.6.6 WiFi Connectivity & App Sharing
Connect the H16 to your smartphone via Wi-Fi to view live video, adjust settings, download recorded videos, and share them on social media. This provides convenient data management and control.

5.7 Storage
The H16 supports TF (microSD) card expansion up to 256GB, allowing for extensive recording storage. Ensure the TF card is inserted correctly into the TF Card Slot on the device.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the screen and device body. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Lens Care: Keep the camera lenses clean for optimal recording quality. Gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth.
- Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and not obstructing driving controls or airbags. Periodically check for wear and tear on cables.
- Storage: If storing the device for an extended period, disconnect it from power and store it in a cool, dry place.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ESSGOO H16, please refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- Device does not power on:
- Ensure the car charger is properly connected to both the device and the vehicle's 12V power outlet.
- Check if the vehicle's power outlet is functioning.
- Try a different car charger if available.
- CarPlay/Android Auto not connecting:
- Ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on both your smartphone and the H16.
- Verify your smartphone's operating system meets the minimum requirements (Android 11+ for Android Auto).
- Forget the device in your phone's Bluetooth settings and try pairing again.
- Restart both the H16 and your smartphone.
- No audio output:
- Check the selected audio output method (Bluetooth, AUX, FM Transmitter) on the H16.
- Ensure your car stereo is set to the corresponding input mode (Bluetooth, AUX, or the correct FM frequency).
- Adjust the volume on both the H16 and your car stereo.
- Dashcam not recording or poor quality:
- Ensure a TF card is inserted and formatted correctly.
- Check if the TF card has sufficient free space.
- Clean the camera lenses.
- Verify recording settings in the device menu.
- Screen unresponsive:
- Restart the device by disconnecting and reconnecting the power.
- Ensure the screen is clean and free from debris.
If the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact customer support.
8. User Tips
- For optimal audio quality, using the AUX connection is generally recommended over the FM transmitter, as FM can be prone to interference.
- Regularly check your TF card for recorded footage and ensure it's functioning correctly, especially if you rely on the dashcam for security.
- Experiment with both the base bracket and the long arm suction cup to find the most secure and least obstructive mounting position for your vehicle.
- Keep your smartphone's operating system updated to ensure compatibility and best performance with CarPlay and Android Auto.
9. Warranty and Support
9.1 Warranty Information
The ESSGOO H16 Portable Carplay Touch Screen Car Stereo comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or improper installation.
9.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or any questions regarding your ESSGOO H16 device, please contact the seller or ESSGOO customer support through the platform where you purchased the product. Please have your purchase details and product model number ready when contacting support.





