Confirm the vehicle and country support CarPlay, unlock iPhone, test the correct USB port and cable or enable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth for wireless CarPlay, then restart the phone and car. Forget the car and set it up again only after those checks.
What this covers
- Wired or wireless Apple CarPlay in a supported vehicle
What it does not cover
- ×Vehicles, stereos or countries where the manufacturer does not offer CarPlay
Try in this order
0 of 4 completedVerify support and Siri
ReversibleConfirm the vehicle/stereo supports CarPlay in your region and that Siri is enabled on iPhone.
Test the correct connection path
ReversibleFor wired CarPlay, use the labeled USB port and another known-good data cable. For wireless, enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Restart iPhone and the vehicle
ReversibleRestart iPhone and turn the vehicle fully off and on according to its manual before retrying.
Forget and add the car again
Reset / data riskOpen Settings › General › CarPlay, choose the car, tap Forget This Car, then repeat the vehicle’s pairing flow.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Exact questions
Common questions about “CarPlay will not connect to iPhone”
Why won't CarPlay connect?+
The cable, port or setting can be at fault.
Is wireless CarPlay different?+
It needs Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to be on.
Is CarPlay allowed on the phone?+
Check Screen Time restrictions and the CarPlay settings for your car.
Is the USB port correct?+
Use the port marked for CarPlay or a data cable.
Does Siri need to be on?+
Yes, Siri must be enabled for CarPlay.
Does the car need an update?+
Some cars need a firmware update from the dealer or maker to work reliably with newer iPhones. Check the car maker's support page for your model.
Could a wireless CarPlay problem be Wi-Fi?+
Wireless CarPlay uses Bluetooth for pairing and Wi-Fi for data. Make sure both are on and forget the car on the phone and the phone in the car before pairing again.
Should I check the cable for wired CarPlay?+
A damaged or non-data cable often causes disconnects. Use a data-capable cable that meets Apple's standards and try another USB port in the car if available.