Apple CarPlay is a digital interface that uses your iPhone to connect to your Jeeps infotainment system.
It lets you use your phone as a remote control and interact with apps like Maps, Messages, and Music through voice or touchscreen commands, but only when it’s working!
Your Jeep Apple CarPlay unit may not work for various reasons, such as incompatibility issues, integration problems between apps, iOS update issues, or a faulty USB cable. Wifi or Bluetooth connectivity problems and your car’s inability to detect iPhone are other potential issues.
Your CarPlay may not work properly if you have specific issues with your Jeep or if other factors affect the connection between your iPhone and the car.
So, why is my Jeep Apple CarPlay not working?
Incompatibility | USB Connection | Connectivity | Updates | Integrations | Specific Car Makes | Specific iPhone models
Read on to learn the causes of why your Jeep CarPlay stereo may not be working and potential fixes.
1. Incompatibility Issues
Apple CarPlay, not working problems can be due to incompatibility issues.
Some iPhones may not support Apple CarPlay, while others require specific cables for proper connection.
For instance, only iPhones 5’s and upwards support CarPlay. See the full list of compatible models:
Some common incompatibility issues that may lead to Jeep CarPlay not working properly include:
- App incompatibility
- Device compatibility
- Hardware incompatibility
Apple CarPlay may also not be available in some country locations. As Seen below:
If you are using an aftermarket stereo (not the factory one installed by Jeep – Uconnect), it may not be compatible or has outdated firmware installed.
Check the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to complete a firmware update.
If you have recently replaced your car’s infotainment system with a new model, or if you have recently installed a new device in your vehicle (like an aftermarket navigation device), this can cause problems with the compatibility between your Apple CarPlay and the new device.
The car’s infotainment system may be old and doesn’t support Apple CarPlay.
Using Apple CarPlay via Jeeps Uconnect should be free, which allows you to access Apple CarPlay, unlike other car manufacturers.
However, Uconnect Access is a paid part of Uconnect, costing $14.99 per month, allowing for 9-1-1 calls, roadside assistance, and a whole host of other safety features.
If you’re confused about the difference between the two systems, you’re not alone! See my article on CarPlay vs Uconnect for more information.
How To Fix It
Check if CarPlay is compatible with your Jeep stereo. If unsure, contact your vehicle manufacturer or check the car’s user manual.
You can buy an aftermarket stereo from brands such as JVC, Sony, Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, or Clarion if your car stereo isn’t compatible.
This should be fairly simple to install as most Jeep models have a large expansive stereo area where you should be able to fit a double din radio.
- Make sure your iPhone model is supported (iPhone 5 and upwards).
- Make sure your country supports CarPlay (See here).
Example of a Jeep Wrangler head unit area
2. Jeep – USB Connection Issues
Another common issue is that the car’s and phone’s USB connection is not working properly.
Sometimes, Apple CarPlay is not working when plugged in could result in your device not being connected to the correct port.
Most Jeeps come with multiple USB connections, which may not necessarily connect your car to CarPlay. Only one will be used for data transfer.
Jeep vehicles will usually have a USB TYPE A or USB TYPE C (Depending on the year and model) in the center console area, in the glove compartment, or below the armrest.
Be warned not all of these will allow data transfer to Apple Carplay.
Make sure you’re not plugged into a cigarette lighter or wireless charging pad, as this won’t work.
Your infotainment system may also not work if you use a faulty USB cable that is frayed or broken.
Aftermarket USB cables may also not work with your device, so you must ensure that you use a high-quality USB cable that is MFI certified.
How To Fix It
If your CarPlay is not working due to an issue with the USB connection, you can try some potential solutions before contacting Apple support.
Some of these solutions include:
- Removing and reinserting the USB cable.
- Replacing the USB cable if it appears worn out. (A common issue causing CarPlay to keep disconnecting)
- Replacing an aftermarket USB cable with a high-quality one.
- Ensure there is no “fluff” in the car’s USB port or the iPhone charging point. (Watch this for how to remove the “fluff”)
My personal favorite iPhone USB cable for CarPlay is the Belkin BoostCharge Pro Flex because of its quality and versatility. As seen in the image below:
3. Jeep CarPlay Connectivity Issues
Note: A Jeep Wireless CarPlay solution only
Apple CarPlay can be connected wirelessly, a Jeep infotainment system that uses your iPhone to play audio and video.
The most common issue people have faced with Jeep Wireless CarPlay is the inability to connect their iPhones via Bluetooth / WIFI.
Sometimes, the connection between your car’s entertainment system and your phone can get corrupted for various reasons.
Connectivity can also be interrupted by something else, such as a call or text message, even causing lower-quality audio.
Sometimes, Apple CarPlay does not work because of the wifi connection issue, which can happen when your phone’s wifi connection is turned off or interrupted while using Apple CarPlay in your car.
In addition, other Bluetooth devices connected to your phone may also interfere with connectivity.
How To Fix It
Sometimes, fixing connectivity issues requires you to turn on your phone’s wifi connection or restart the app to fix this problem.
Unpair all devices connected to your phone that may interrupt the connection between your car’s infotainment system and the phone.
You can also try unpairing the phone from the car and try pairing it again. Ensure your phone is not on “airplane mode” and your Bluetooth is turned on.
If you are getting errors such as “Apple CarPlay connection failed,” you will need to follow these steps and see if it works.
4. iOS Update Issues
A common cause of Apple CarPlay not working is an iOS update issue.
If you get iOS update errors, such as “iPhone could not be found” or “the iPhone could not be activated,” you will need to update your CarPlay iOS to the latest version.
There are also reports that CarPlay is not working after an update.
In this case, it is likely a bug and should be fixed in a future update unless using a third-party accessory such as a wireless CarPlay adapter.
How To Fix
If your Jeep CarPlay stops working, ensure that the iOS is up-to-date and compatible with the latest version of the CarPlay App.
If you are using a new device, make sure it is updated to the latest version of iOS before trying to connect it to your car.
To update your iPhone & CarPlay’s iOS, follow these steps:
- Back up your data and files and ensure your phone is fully powered and connected to wifi.
- Tap “settings” on your device and head to “General.”
- Tap the software update menu and begin the IOS update by pressing “Install Now.”
5. App Integration Problems
It’s not uncommon for Apple CarPlay to stop working due to integration issues between apps.
Understanding this could help you get it back up and running again.
CarPlay may not work due to integration problems between the CarPlay app and the car’s stereo system.
It usually happens when a third-party stereo system is only compatible with an older version of iOS or if the stereo needs a newer version of iOS than what is currently installed on your device.
Or if you are struggling with an iPhone app not working with CarPlay, it may be because it is not compatible or broken because the developers haven’t updated it.
For example, people often expect there to be a SoundCloud CarPlay app, but it’s not compatible.
And a once popular CarPlay email app no longer works because the devs have not kept it up to date.
How To Fix It
If you are wondering why CarPlay is not working in your car, it could be an integration problem between apps.
Check that all apps on your infotainment system are compatible with Apple CarPlay and that your iPhone’s iOS is up-to-date.
How To Troubleshoot Your Jeep CarPlay Not Working
Several other potential issues that you may experience with your Jeeps Apple CarPlay include.
See the following articles to learn more about these issues:
- CarPlay microphone not working
- Apple CarPlay music not working
- Apple CarPlay connection failed
- Apple CarPlay crashing
- Apple CarPlay freezes
- Apple CarPlay greyed out
- Apple CarPlay black screen
- CarPlay Lag & Audio Delay
- “only one accessory can be used at a time” error
- Carplay keeps stopping
- CarPlay can’t hear phone calls
- CarPlay GPS problems
If your Apple CarPlay is not working correctly, you may need to troubleshoot your device and figure out the source of the problem.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure that everything is up and running properly.
- The first thing to do if you’re having trouble connecting your car to your phone is to ensure that your phone is compatible with Apple CarPlay.
- Check to ensure that your wireless connections are working correctly, i.e., Bluetooth and wifi. (If using wireless CarPlay)
- Restart your phone and infotainment system to see if this will clear the errors you are experiencing.
- Ensure that your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version and that it is compatible with your Jeep Uconnect infotainment system. (The default Jeep system should be fine, though).
- Check the cable connection between your phone and car to ensure it’s firmly plugged into the correct port on the car’s infotainment system, as well as being MFI certified.
- Try connecting your iPhone to a different port on the infotainment system if it doesn’t work from one port.
- Try forgetting and re-establishing your CarPlay connection.
- Ensure that your Jeep stereo firmware is up-to-date.
- Reset your iPhone settings and see if it works.
- If you are still experiencing trouble with your Apple CarPlay even after trying these fixes, you will need to contact Apple Support or a Jeep dealer for further assistance.
See this video for how to pair connect and Apple CarPlay:
Specific iPhone Solutions for Jeep CarPlay Not Working
You may be thinking about why your specific model of iPhone is not working; however, generally, there will be no difference or reason for the issues between iPhone models as they all use the same IOS software.
Just make sure you make an iPhone 5 and upwards, as older models are not compatible.
Although if you have an iPhone 5, CarPlay will probably be VERY slow.
These iPhone models are currently compatible:
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 5c
- iPhone 5
Final Thoughts
Apple CarPlay is a system that allows drivers to use their iOS devices while driving. It provides a safer and more convenient way for drivers to use their iPhones and iPads without keeping their eyes off the road.
It provides a great way to stream music, make calls, and more. It also has many benefits for drivers by providing turn-by-turn navigation and other safety features, but only when working as intended.
If your Jeep’s CarPlay has stopped working, try the above fixes to continue enjoying its convenience and reliability. If you’re having specific issues with your Jeep Wrangler, consider a radio reset. See how to do that in our article.
