The most common reason for this problem is interference from VPN apps or the “Private Wi-Fi Address” setting on your iPhone. Sometimes, the problem is caused by old software, a damaged USB cable, or issues with the Bluetooth pairing. In other cases, this issue can happen right after updating your iPhone’s software or making changes to your car’s infotainment system. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
1. Reconnect or Re-pair the Devices
Sometimes, a temporary communication glitch can cause CarPlay issues. Reconnecting or repairing the devices may fix the problem. Before you do this, remove any phone cases—especially those with wireless charging—as these can sometimes interfere.
1.1 Reconnect the Devices
If you continue to have problems, try connecting CarPlay with a different iPhone to see if the issue is with your device.
1.2. Re-pair the Devices
2. Disable Siri Options in iPhone Settings
CarPlay might not work if Siri’s features are interfering with connections. Disabling Siri in iPhone settings may help.
3. Refresh the iPhone’s Memory
If your iPhone’s memory (RAM) is temporarily “stuck,” CarPlay may not work. You can refresh it easily.
4. Perform a Hard Restart of the iPhone
A simple restart can solve many temporary issues. If CarPlay is failing, a hard restart may help. These steps work for iPhones with Face ID (the steps may differ for older models). Before this, check if disabling any VPN on your iPhone helps.
5. Force Restart the Car Unit
Occasionally, a temporary glitch in the car unit can disrupt CarPlay. Try force restarting the unit as follows (these are general steps—refer to your car’s manual for specifics):
6. Update the iPhone to the Latest iOS Version
Running an outdated version of iOS can cause compatibility issues with CarPlay. If the recent iOS update included a fix for this bug, your phone won’t get it until updated. Make sure your phone is fully charged and connected to Wi-Fi before proceeding.
7. Update the Firmware of the Car Unit
Outdated car unit firmware can also cause CarPlay problems. Update this firmware to the latest version if possible.
8. Allow CarPlay in Content & Privacy Restrictions
If your iPhone is set to disallow CarPlay, it will not work until enabled.
9. Enable Smart Device Mirroring (if available)
In cars like the Dodge Charger, “Smart Device Mirroring” (which may have a different name in your car) is necessary for CarPlay. If this is off, CarPlay will not work even though your phone may still charge.
10. Enable USB Enhanced Mode (if available)
Many cars (like some Toyotas) offer basic and enhanced USB modes. CarPlay usually needs the enhanced mode for data transfer—basic mode may only support charging.
11. Set the iPhone to “Always Enabled” in Car Settings
If your iPhone is not set to always be allowed in your car unit’s connection settings, CarPlay may fail to connect.
12. Disable Wi-Fi on the Car Unit
When your iPhone is physically connected to the car, but the car’s Wi-Fi is on, the unit may try (and fail) to communicate over Wi-Fi instead of USB, causing handshake problems. Disabling Wi-Fi on the car unit can help.
13. Disable Wi-Fi Networking on iPhone
The Wi-Fi networking feature on your iPhone is intended to improve GPS accuracy but can sometimes disrupt the CarPlay connection process.
14. Perform a Network Reset on the iPhone
If the iPhone’s network settings are glitched, CarPlay may stop working. Resetting network settings often fixes such issues. Remember: this will erase saved Wi-Fi networks, so make a note of passwords first.
15. Discharge the Car Unit’s Motherboard
Sometimes, electronic components inside the car unit can get “stuck” in an error state. Discharging the car unit may help.
16. Reset App Connect on Volkswagen Units
If you drive a Volkswagen (or similar car), the App Connect module may need to be reset.
17. Reset All iPhone Settings
Sometimes, an unknown setting is preventing CarPlay from functioning. Resetting all iPhone settings can resolve this. Write down your Wi-Fi passwords and other custom settings first.
18. Reset the Car Unit to Factory Defaults
A corrupted infotainment system may cause CarPlay issues. Reset the car unit to its factory settings.
19. Reset the iPhone to Factory Defaults
If you’ve tried everything and CarPlay still isn’t working, a full factory reset on your iPhone may be needed. Back up your data before you proceed, as this will erase your device.
