7 Easy Fixes for Apple CarPlay Not Working [2024]

By Khalid AliPublished on May 31, 2024

Khalid is a certified Google IT Support Professional.

Ensure your iPhone and car's infotainment system are constantly updated to the latest versions. Regularly checking and adjusting settings like CarPlay, Siri, and network configurations can prevent connectivity issues.
Whether using a wired or wireless connection, always use certified cables and ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled. Double-checking connections and ports can resolve many common CarPlay issues.
If CarPlay problems persist, basic troubleshooting steps like restarting your devices, reconnecting CarPlay, or resetting network settings often help. Contacting Apple Support or checking for vehicle-specific updates may be necessary for persistent issues.

Apple CarPlay offers a smooth way to integrate your iPhone’s features with your car’s infotainment system, providing easy access to navigation, music, calls, and messages while keeping your focus on the road.

When CarPlay fails to work properly, it can be a significant inconvenience. This guide will take you through practical troubleshooting steps to resolve common CarPlay issues, ensuring you can enjoy a hassle-free driving experience again.

Whether it’s a connection problem, software glitch, or settings issue, these solutions will help you fix CarPlay and make your drives smoother and safer.

What is Apple CarPlay, and how does it work?

Apple CarPlay integrates your iPhone with your car’s infotainment system, allowing you to access key functions safely while driving. It provides navigation, communication, and entertainment through your car’s built-in display and controls.

With CarPlay, you can use Apple, Google, or Waze for directions and traffic updates. You can make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to voicemails hands-free with Siri.

For entertainment, CarPlay lets you access music, podcasts, and audiobooks through apps like Apple Music and Spotify. It supports other apps for weather news and select third-party applications for a customized driving experience.

Reasons why Apple CarPlay might not be working?

Apple CarPlay might not work for several reasons, ranging from simple connection issues to more complex software problems. Here are some common causes:

Connection issues: Problems with the USB cable or port can prevent CarPlay from connecting correctly.
CarPlay not enabled: CarPlay might not be enabled in your iPhone’s settings.
Outdated software: Older versions of iOS or your car’s infotainment system software may cause compatibility issues.
Wireless connectivity problems: Wireless CarPlay requires Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to be enabled and functioning correctly.
Device interference: Other connected Bluetooth devices may interfere with CarPlay’s connection.
Screen Time restrictions: CarPlay might be restricted under Screen Time settings on your iPhone.
Faulty hardware: Issues with the car’s infotainment system or the iPhone can also prevent CarPlay from working.

How to resolve the Apple CarPlay not working issue?

If your Apple CarPlay isn’t working, you can take several troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue. Follow these tips to get your CarPlay up and running smoothly again:

1. Make sure CarPlay is enabled on your iPhone

To resolve issues with Apple CarPlay not working, you first need to ensure that CarPlay is enabled on your iPhone. Sometimes, CarPlay might get turned off accidentally or due to software updates.

Enabling CarPlay involves a few simple steps, and ensuring it isn’t restricted in your Screen Time settings can be crucial. Here’s how to do it:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on “General.
Go to General
Select “CarPlay.”
Tap CarPlay
Look for your car in the “My Cars” section. If your car isn’t listed, press and hold the voice control button on your car’s steering wheel to initiate the setup and pair your car with your phone.
Select you Car

↪ Ensure that CarPlay isn’t restricted in Screen Time settings

Your Screen Time settings might restrict Apple CarPlay from running properly or even getting started. Here’s how to make sure you have the correct Screen Time settings:

Return to the Settings main page and tap “Screen Time.”
Tap Screen Time
If Screen Time is enabled, tap “Content & Privacy Restrictions.”
Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.
Select “Allowed Apps & Features“.
Tap Allowed Apps & Features
Ensure that CarPlay is enabled by swiping the button to the right.
Tap the CarPlay Toggle

2. Enable CarPlay when your phone is locked

For a flawless CarPlay experience, you must enable CarPlay to function even when your iPhone is locked. If this setting is disabled, CarPlay might disconnect or fail to operate correctly once the phone’s screen turns off.

Enabling CarPlay while your phone is locked ensures you can use CarPlay without interruptions, even when your phone screen turns off. Here’s how to make sure this setting is enabled:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and select “General.
Tap General
Choose “CarPlay.”
Tap CarPlay
Tap your car in the list of connected vehicles.
Tap on your Car’s name
Ensure that “Allow CarPlay While Locked” is turned on by swiping the button to the right.
Turn on the Toggle

3. Ensure Siri is enabled

Siri plays a crucial role in the functionality of Apple CarPlay, allowing you to control various features using voice commands. If Siri is not enabled, CarPlay may not work as expected. Here’s how to check and enable Siri on your iPhone:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Scroll down and tap on “Siri & Search.”
Open Siri settings
Ensure that the following options are enabled by swiping the buttons to the right:

Listen for “Hey Siri”
Press Side Button for Siri (on iPhones with Face ID)
Press Home for Siri (on iPhones with a Home button)
Allow Siri When Locked
Turn on the options

4. Restart your iPhone and car

Sometimes, the simplest solutions can resolve complex issues. Restarting your iPhone and car can clear any temporary glitches or corrupted data that might prevent CarPlay from working properly. To restart your car, turn off the engine, wait for a few seconds, and turn the engine back on. Here’s how to restart your devices:

↪ For iPhone X and later:

Press and hold the Volume and Side buttons until the power-off slider appears.
Press both buttons
Drag the slider, then wait 30 seconds for your device to turn off. Press and hold the Side button to turn your device back on until you see the Apple logo.
Drag the slider to right

↪ For iPhone 8 and earlier:

Press and hold the Top (or Side) button until the power-off slider appears.
Press the Side Button
Drag the slider, then wait 30 seconds for your device to turn off. Press and hold the Top (or Side) button to turn your device back on until you see the Apple logo.
Drag the Slider to right

5. Double-check your USB cable

If you are using a wired connection for Apple CarPlay, it is essential to ensure that your USB cable is in good condition and is Apple-certified. An undamaged, Apple-certified USB cable ensures a stable and reliable connection between your iPhone and your car’s infotainment system.

Non-certified or damaged cables may not support CarPlay, leading to connectivity issues or complete failure of the feature. Inspect your USB cable for any signs of wear or damage. If the cable is damaged, replace it with a new Apple-certified one.

6. Reconnect CarPlay

If your CarPlay connection has become corrupted or is not working correctly, you may need to forget and reconnect your car in the CarPlay settings. This process involves removing the existing connection and setting it up from scratch. Here’s how to forget and reconnect the car in CarPlay settings:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and choose “General.”
Go to General
Tap” CarPlay.”
Tap CarPlay
Select your car from the list of connected vehicles.
Select your car
Tap “Forget This Car” to remove the existing connection.
Tap Forget this car

Once you do this, you must add and reset the CarPlay connection from scratch. Here’s how to do it:

↪ For wired connection:

Ensure your iPhone is connected to your car using an Apple-certified USB cable. Turn on your car’s infotainment system.
Connect your Phone via cable
Press and hold the voice command button on your car’s steering wheel to start the setup process.
Press and hold the button
A prompt to enable CarPlay will appear on your iPhone. Select “Use USB Only” and then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Tap on Use USB Only

↪ For wireless connection:

Ensure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your iPhone. Turn on your car’s infotainment system.
Turn on Bluetooth and WiFi
Press and hold the voice command button on your car’s steering wheel to start the setup process.
Press and hold the button
On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay.
Tap CarPlay
Tap “Available Cars” and select your car from the list.
Select your Car

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

7. Check for the latest updates

Keeping your iPhone and car’s firmware updated is crucial for ensuring the smooth functionality of Apple CarPlay. Updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features that enhance the overall experience. Here are the steps to check and install updates on iPhone:

On your iPhone, go to Settings and then “General.”
Tap General
Tap “Software Update.” Your iPhone will check for available updates.
Tap Software Update
If an update is available, tap “Download and Install.” Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
Install if Update is available

↪ Updating your car’s firmware

Check your car’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for instructions on updating the firmware. Some updates may require a visit to the dealership, where professionals can update the car’s system. If available, download the firmware update from the manufacturer’s website and follow the installation instructions.

Additional troubleshooting tips

If you’ve tried all the basic troubleshooting steps and CarPlay is still not working, here are some additional steps you can take:

↪ Ensure your car model supports CarPlay

Verify that your car model supports CarPlay by checking the manual or visiting the manufacturer’s website. The CarPlay logo on the car’s infotainment system often indicates support.

↪ Contacting Apple Support if issues persist

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and CarPlay still isn’t working, it might be time to seek professional help. Contact Apple Support for further assistance:

Use the website: Go to Apple Support and search for CarPlay issues.
Use the support app: Open the Apple Support app on your iPhone to get personalized help.
Visit an Apple Store: If needed, visit your nearest Apple Store for in-person assistance.

Final thoughts

While Apple CarPlay is a convenient and safe way to use your iPhone’s features while driving, issues can arise that disrupt its functionality. You can often resolve these issues by ensuring your settings are correct, your software is up-to-date, and connections are correctly established.

If problems persist, don’t hesitate to contact Apple Support for further assistance. Keeping CarPlay in optimal working condition enhances your driving experience by providing seamless navigation, communication, and entertainment access.

FAQs

Can I use CarPlay with a third-party navigation app?

Yes, CarPlay supports several third-party navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze. This flexibility allows users to choose their preferred navigation tool for better driving directions and real-time traffic updates.

Is it possible to customize the CarPlay interface?

Yes, you can customize the CarPlay interface by rearranging the app icons. Go to your iPhone’s Settings, select General, then CarPlay, and choose your car. From there, you can drag and drop the app icons to arrange them according to your preferences.

How do I add new apps to CarPlay?

New apps can be added to CarPlay as long as they are compatible. Download the app from the App Store on your iPhone to add them. Once installed, the app will automatically appear on the CarPlay home screen if it supports CarPlay functionality.

What should I do if CarPlay keeps disconnecting?

Frequent disconnections can be due to poor cable quality, software glitches, or interference. Ensuring that your iPhone, cable, and car firmware are up to date can help. Checking for any interference from other devices can stabilize the connection.

Can CarPlay affect my phone’s battery life?

Using CarPlay, especially with a wired connection, typically charges your phone, which can prevent battery drain. However, if you use many power-intensive apps, it might still use a significant amount of battery. Wireless CarPlay can consume more battery as it relies on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

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