[8 Ways] How to Fix iPhone 16 Carplay Not Working

Part 1: Why is my Apple Carplay suddenly not working on iPhone 16

Several factors can cause iPhone 16 Apple CarPlay not Showing up.

• iPhone Not Detected: Car system doesn't recognize your iPhone.
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues: Problems with Bluetooth preventing connection.
• Faulty USB Cable: Damaged or worn-out USB cable affecting data transfer.
• Software Issues: Outdated software on either device causing compatibility issues.
• Compatibility Issues: Incompatibility between iPhone model and car system.
• Dust and Debris in the Port: Dirty Lightning port preventing solid connection.
• iPhone Restrictions: Parental controls blocking CarPlay functionality.
• Damaged Cable: A worn-out Lightning cable disrupting the connection.
• Other Devices Interfering: Multiple devices paired causing connectivity drops.
• Car System Needs Updates: The infotainment system lacks recent updates.

Part 2: How to Fix iPhone 16 carplay not working? 8 Best Ways

Solution 1: Check CarPlay Settings

When your CarPlay stops working, the first step is to check the CarPlay settings on your iPhone. This is often a quick and easy fix that can resolve connectivity issues. Connecting your car successfully requires CarPlay to be enabled on your device.

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
• Navigate to General and select CarPlay.

• Turn the CarPlay toggle to the GREEN/ON position. If it appears greyed out or set to OFF, CarPlay won’t be able to launch in your vehicle.


• While in the CarPlay settings, check the list of vehicles displayed. Step 5: Your car should appear if it has been connected before. If it’s not listed, you may need to set it up again.
• Look for any error messages at the top of the CarPlay settings page, as these can provide clues about why your iPhone 15/16 CarPlay isn’t functioning properly.

Solution 2: Restart the iPhone and Car System

Restarting your devices can often resolve software-related issues that cause connectivity problems. If you find that your iPhone charging but CarPlay not working, a simple reboot may clear any temporary glitches affecting the connection. Here’s how to restart both your iPhone and your car’s head unit:

Steps to Restart Your iPhone:

• Press and hold the Side button and either of the Volume buttons until the power-off slider appears on the screen.
• Drag the slider to the right to turn off your iPhone. Wait for about 30 seconds.
• Press and hold the Side button again until you see the Apple logo to turn your iPhone back on.

Steps to Restart Your Car's Head Unit:

• Turn off your car and open the driver’s door to ensure the electrical systems reset.
• Wait a few moments, then start your car again to power up the head unit.

Solution 3: Inspect Connections

Even if everything seems set up correctly, a loose or dirty connection can interfere with CarPlay functionality. It's essential to examine both the cable and connection ports to make sure everything is in order.

Steps to Check Connections:

• Verify you’re using the original Apple Lightning to USB cable that came with your iPhone 16, checking for any damage.
• While attempting to launch CarPlay, gently wiggle the cable at both ends to check for loose connections.
• Inspect the Lightning port on your iPhone for any dirt or debris that might hinder the connection.
• Use compressed air or a soft brush to clean out the Lightning port, removing any dust or lint obstructing the connection.

Solution 4: Toggle Bluetooth Off and On Again

If the iPhone 16 carplay not working after update, it’s essential to check your Bluetooth connection. A faulty Bluetooth connection can prevent CarPlay from functioning properly. Disabling and re-enabling Bluetooth can often resolve this issue.

• Go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle the switch to turn Bluetooth off.

• Exit the app, wait a few seconds, and then return to the Bluetooth settings to turn it back on.

Solution 5: Reset Network Settings

Having Iphone 16 Apple CarPlay not Showing up can be frustrating. This issue is often caused by connection or software problems. Resetting network settings can help. It restores default settings without deleting data. Follow these steps to get CarPlay working again.

• Go to Settings > General > Reset, then select Reset Network Settings.
• Enter your passcode to confirm the reset.

Solution 6: Update iOS and Car Software

iphone 16 is charging but CarPlay is not working, it could be due to outdated software. Ensuring both your iPhone 16 and car have the latest software is crucial. Sometimes, iOS updates can fix bugs causing CarPlay issues.

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

• Check if any iOS updates are available and tap "Download and Install."


• After updating your iPhone, consult your car’s manual to update its infotainment system if needed.

Confirm that your CarPlay radio is running the most recent software offered by your car manufacturer. Apple routinely publishes updates to address issues and mistakes caused by iOS upgrades, which may impact CarPlay performance.

Solution 7: Check for Restrictions

Restrictions or parental controls on your iPhone 16 could be preventing CarPlay from working. These settings may unintentionally block access to certain apps.

• Open Settings > Screen Time on your iPhone 16.



• Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions to view the restrictions.


• Select Allowed Apps and ensure Apple CarPlay is enabled.
• If CarPlay is disabled, toggle it on to allow access.

Solution 8: Repair iPhone System: The Recommended Solution for CarPlay Issues

When encountering issues with your iPhone 16 carplay not working, it can be frustrating. In such cases, Tenorshare ReiBoot is a powerful iOS repair tool. It fixes many software problems, including CarPlay issues, recovery mode glitches, and devices stuck on the Apple logo. Its user-friendly interface allows anyone to repair their device at home safely. There is no risk of data loss.

Tenorshare ReiBoot works with the latest iPhone models, including the iPhone 16. It supports the newest iOS versions. Using this tool can restore your CarPlay functionality without needing professional repairs.

Steps to Fix Apple Carplay not working iPhone 16 using Tenorshare ReiBoot:

• Download and install Tenorshare ReiBoot on your PC/Mac.

• Connect your iPhone to the computer and launch the tool. Click "Start Repair."

• Choose Standard Repair to begin repairing your iPhone 16 Apple CarPlay not Showing up.

• Download the Firmware Package by clicking "Download" when your device is detected. Then, select Standard Repair and wait for the process to complete.

• Click Done when the process is complete.

Part 3: Final Words

When your iPhone 16 carplay not working, it's crucial to explore various troubleshooting methods. However, should these common solutions fail to resolve the issue, consider using Tenorshare ReiBoot. This powerful iOS repair tool can address deeper software problems safely and effectively, without risking data loss. With its compatibility across all iOS versions and iPhone models, Tenorshare ReiBoot is a reliable option.