CarPlay has become an indispensable companion for many drivers, allowing a smooth and secure use of features of their iPhone directly on the screen of their car. However, CarPlay sometimes stops working, causing frustration and inconvenience. Whether you encounter connection problems, bugs after updating or incompatibilities, there are simple solutions to resolve these malfunctions.
In this article, we will explore the common causes of CarPlay problems and propose easy-to-apply solutions. Whether you're facing a black screen, a failing Bluetooth connection or problems with apps like Spotify or Waze, this guide is for you.
Common problems with Apple CarPlay
Before exploring solutions, it is essential to understand why your CarPlay can stop working. Some of the most common causes include:
- Vehicle compatibility
- Compatibility of the iPhone
- Activation of Siri
- Bluetooth connection problems
- iOS Update Issues
- USB connection not recognized
- Aircraft mode inadvertently activated
Each of these causes can explain a failure. Let's see how to identify and resolve these issues in detail.
How to solve CarPlay's problems?
Why doesn't CarPlay work anymore?
1.1 Common connection problems
Typical examples include:
- CarPlay doesn't automatically connect to my car.
- My iPhone doesn't appear in the device list.
- CarPlay does not work with Bluetooth or USB cable.
Possible causes:
- Use of uncertified or defective USB cable.
- Bluetooth incorrectly configured or disabled.
- Problems related to the car's USB ports.
Solutions:
- Use an Apple certified USB cable or a quality cable.
- Check that Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your iPhone.
- Remove and reconnect your iPhone in the CarPlay settings of your car.
Enable Siri
Apple CarPlay relies heavily on Siri to work properly. Make sure Siri is enabled on your iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Siri and Search.
- Enable « Press the side button for Siri » and « Allow Siri when locked ».
Check Bluetooth connection
Bluetooth connection is essential for optimal operation. Here's how to eliminate problems:
- Disable and Reactivate Bluetooth on your iPhone.
- Remove the device from the Bluetooth menu (« forget this device »), then repaint.
- Make sure your vehicle is properly configured to accept a new connection.
You can also « forget » The device in the Bluetooth settings then make a new request for association between the two devices, this should be able to fix the problem.
Disable Aeroplane Mode
Aircraft mode blocks all wireless connections. To disable it:
- Go to Settings.
- Check that the option Aeroplane mode is disabled.
This simple action can be enough to restore a functional Bluetooth or USB connection.
1.2 Problems after an update
iOS updates or your car's multimedia system can sometimes cause unexpected bugs. The most common cases are:
- This no longer works after an iOS update.
- Update the firmware of the car and bugs.
- It bugs after the last iPhone update.
Possible causes:
- Incompatibility between iOS and car system.
- Bugs software introduced by the update.
Solutions:
- Check that your iPhone and your car system are up to date.
- If necessary, restore an earlier version of iOS.
- See Apple support or car manufacturer support for patches.
iOS Update
To check and install an iOS update:
- Open Application Settings on your iPhone.
- Go to General > Software Update.
- Install the update if available.
If a new version is available, proceed with its installation. It is recommended that regular iOS update to avoid incompatibility. This approach often solves minor bugs. In the worst case, you can always restart your iPhone. This allows you to reset the internal settings.
1.3 Display problems
Display problems can also occur, making it unusable. For example:
- Why does the CarPlay screen stay black?
- It displays but does not respond to the touch.
- My screen flashes or turns off.
Possible causes:
- Problems related to the touch screen of the car.
- Software bugs or hardware incompatibilities.
Solutions:
- Restart your car and iPhone.
- Reset CarPlay to your iPhone settings.
- If the problem persists, consult a professional.
Easy to apply solutions to try to repair it
2.1. Basic checks
Before going further, here are some simple steps to solve common problems:
- How do I check the compatibility between CarPlay and my car?
- Check out the official list of compatible cars on Apple's website.
- Restart your iPhone and the car's multimedia system.
- Make sure your USB cable or Bluetooth connection works properly.
2.2 Resolution of Update Issues
If it doesn't work after an update, here's what you can do:
- How to solve a problem after an iOS update?
- Install the latest available updates for iOS and car firmware.
- If a third-party application like Spotify or Waze does not work, uninstall it and reinstall it.
2.3. Resetting CarPlay
If the previous steps are not enough, try reset it as follows:
- Remove your iPhone from connected devices in the car settings.
- Reset the network settings of your iPhone.
- Reconnect your iPhone to CarPlay.
Specific problems and advanced solutions
3.1 Problems with third-party applications
Some applications may not work properly. For example:
- Why Spotify or Waze doesn't work with CarPlay?
- GPS browsing problems on CarPlay with Google Maps.
Solutions:
- Make sure the applications are up to date.
- Give the necessary permissions in your iPhone settings.
- If the problem persists, contact the application support.
3.2 Material problems and compatibility
Some problems may be related to equipment or compatibility:
- USB port problem or third party adapters with CarPlay.
- Wireless doesn't work with my car model.
Solutions:
- Use Apple certified accessories.
- Check your car manual to verify wireless compatibility.
Prevention of CarPlay problems in the future
4.1 Tips to avoid recurring problems
- Keep your iPhone and car up to date.
- Use only certified cables and accessories.
- Set up correctly from the first use.
What if it still doesn't work?
4.2 Reset network settings
If none of the above solutions work, consider Reset network settings. Be careful, this action will remove your registered Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections.
- Go to Settings > General > Reset.
- Select Reset network settings.
- Confirm the operation.
4.3. Consult your vehicle manual
Certain vehicle-specific configurations may be required to activate CarPlay. Consult the manual or contact the manufacturer's technical assistance for specific instructions.
4.4 Alternatives and Additional Options
- Consult a professional or contact Apple support.
- Explore alternatives such as Android Auto or built-in systems from manufacturers.
CarPlay is a powerful tool, but it is not free of problems. Fortunately, most malfunctions can be solved with simple checks and practical solutions. By following this guide, you should be able to solve most of the CarPlay issues and take full advantage of its features.
If you have questions or experiences to share, don't hesitate to leave a comment. For more tips or tricks, check out our CarPlay guides and car-based technologies.
