Apple CarPlay Troubleshooting Guide
Author: Toby Date Posted:18 July 2025
Did you know that nearly 1 in 3 Australian drivers now rely on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for in-car navigation, music, and hands-free calls? These systems have transformed the daily drive — but when they stop working, it’s more than just an inconvenience.
This guide zeroes in on the most common Apple CarPlay issues — from connection problems to glitchy apps — and gives you quick, practical fixes so you can get back to driving with your tech running smoothly.
APPLE CARPLAY TROUBLESHOOTING
Issue |
Possible Cause |
Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| CarPlay Not Connecting |
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| Frequent Dropouts / Disconnects |
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| Siri or Voice Control Issues |
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| Missing or Glitchy Apps |
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|
CarPlay Not Connecting
If CarPlay isn’t connecting, it’s often due to a faulty or non-MFi-certified cable, using the wrong USB port, CarPlay not being enabled, an outdated iOS version, or old head unit firmware.
Fix it by first swapping in a certified Lightning cable from trusted brands like Belkin or Anker, as poor-quality cables are a common culprit.
Next, make sure you’re plugged into the port labelled “CarPlay,” since using the wrong port can block the connection.
If that’s all in order, head into your iPhone settings to ensure CarPlay is enabled. It’s also worth updating to the latest iOS version (ideally iOS 16 or newer) to fix any software bugs. Finally, check your head unit manufacturer’s site — brands like Sony or Kenwood often release firmware updates that resolve connection issues.
Frequent Dropouts or Disconnections
Dropouts can happen for a few reasons — from a worn or low-quality cable to interference from other Bluetooth devices, or even a weak wireless signal.
Start by replacing your current cable with a high-quality option to rule out hardware faults. If the issue persists, try re-pairing your device in CarPlay settings to refresh the connection. You should also switch off nearby Bluetooth devices that could be competing for signal. For the most reliable wireless performance, consider upgrading to a premium head unit like the Alpine iLX series, which offers noticeably stronger wireless stability.
Siri or Voice Control Issues
If Siri or voice control isn’t responding properly, the problem could be as simple as Siri being disabled, microphone permissions being turned off, or background noise drowning out your commands.
Start by ensuring all Siri settings are enabled under Settings > Siri & Search on your iPhone. Next, check CarPlay’s settings to confirm that microphone access is allowed.
If you’re still having trouble, consider using an external mic — compatible with many head units like Kenwood — to cut through cabin noise and improve voice recognition.
Missing or Glitchy Apps
If certain apps are missing or acting up in CarPlay, it could be because they’ve been disabled in your settings, had a faulty install, or simply aren’t supported on the platform.
Begin by going into Settings > General > CarPlay and re-enabling any apps you want to use. If that doesn’t help, delete and reinstall the affected app — streaming services like Spotify are common culprits. And remember, some apps, such as YouTube, aren’t compatible with CarPlay at all, so you won’t see them no matter what you try.
If none of the above fixes work, or you need further guidance, visit Apple Support to chat with or call an Apple specialist directly.
Find the Right Apple CarPlay Fix at Superspares
Need a better cable, mic, or planning to upgrade your head unit entirely? Superspares has you covered. We stock a wide range of car audio head units compatible with Apple CarPlay from brands like Aerpro, and Sony.
As your go-to automotive parts store, we offer fast Australia-wide shipping, expert support, and easy compatibility checks online.
