11 Easy Ways to Fix Apple Carplay Greyed Out in Various Car

Are you struggling with Apple Carplay Greyed Out in your car? You’re not alone. 

This common yet frustrating issue plagues many users, especially after upgrading their iPhones. But there’s a quick fix!

In this guide, we’ll show you how to effortlessly restore CarPlay functionality across all car models, ensuring you regain access to your favorite apps and features in no time. 

We’ve been solving car tech problems for 10 years. Our team knows what works. Trust us for simple, effective solutions.

Why is Apple CarPlay Greyed Out – Reasons and Solutions

There could be several reasons if you’re experiencing a specific issue where Apple CarPlay icons are grayed out and inaccessible. Let’s try to diagnose the problem:

Connection Issues:

• Cable/Bluetooth:
  • Wired: Try a different certified lightning cable and USB port in your car. Faulty cables or loose connections can disrupt CarPlay.
  • Wireless: Double-check Bluetooth connections on both your iPhone and car. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both iPhone, and your car and the CarPlay network is joined with Auto-Join activated.
• iPhone Compatibility: Ensure your iPhone is compatible with CarPlay and updated to the latest iOS version. You can find compatible models on Apple’s website.

iPhone Settings:

• Restrictions: Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. If enabled, check if CarPlay is allowed under Allowed Apps.
• CarPlay Settings: Go to Settings > General > CarPlay. Forget the currently connected car and re-establish the connection following on-screen instructions.
• Do Not Disturb While Driving: This mode can grey out CarPlay features. Check if it’s accidentally enabled in Settings > Focus > Do Not Disturb While Driving.

Car Compatibility and Firmware:

• Car Compatibility: Ensure your car model supports CarPlay and is compatible with your iPhone model. Consult your car manual or manufacturer’s website for confirmation.
• Car Firmware: Some CarPlay issues can be resolved by updating the car’s firmware to the latest version. Check with your car manufacturer for firmware updates and instructions.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips:

• Restart both your iPhone and car’s infotainment system.
• Try connecting your iPhone to another CarPlay-compatible car to see if the issue persists.
• Contact Apple Support or your car manufacturer for further assistance.

By systematically checking these steps and potential causes, you should identify the reason behind your greyed-out CarPlay and hopefully get it working again.

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Brand-Specific Issues and Resolutions

Troubleshooting Greyed Out CarPlay in Hyundai Vehicles

• Greyed-Out Gremlin: This common culprit is often a software mismatch. Ensure you’re running the latest updates on both your iPhone and Hyundai infotainment system and still waiting for dice? A quick visit to the dealership might be necessary to reset the head unit.
• Cable Calamity: A faulty or damaged cable can disrupt the CarPlay connection. Swap it out for a good-quality MFi-certified cable and watch the grey fade.

Resolving Nissan Rogue and Nissan General CarPlay Issues

• Rogue Radio Woes: Some Nissan Rogues experience CarPlay audio issues. Try disconnecting and reconnecting your iPhone, or switch to a different USB port. If the problem persists, consult your friendly Nissan service center.
• General Glitches: Try a simple reboot of your phone and the infotainment system for general CarPlay hiccups in any Nissan model. Alternatively, update the software on both devices and see if that smooths things out.

Addressing CarPlay Problems in MG Models

• Touchy Times: MG touchscreens can be…temperamental. If CarPlay isn’t responding to your taps, try cleaning the screen thoroughly. A soft, dry cloth is your friend here.
• App Antics: Outdated or buggy apps can sometimes interfere with CarPlay. Update your apps, or try uninstalling and reinstalling the ones you suspect might be causing trouble.

Kia’s Apple CarPlay Challenges and Fixes

• Connection Conundrum: If your Kia is struggling to connect to CarPlay, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both devices. And your iPhone is using the correct pairing mode.
• Siri Snoozefest: Is your Kia’s Siri acting like a sleepy sloth? Try resetting the voice recognition settings on both your phone and the infotainment system. A quick system reboot might also do the trick.

Subaru’s Carplay Greyed Out CarPlay: Specific Solutions

• Grey Again? The dreaded grayed-out icon can plague Subarus too. As with Hyundai, software updates are your first line of defense. If that doesn’t work, a trip to the dealership might be necessary to recalibrate the system.
• Mic Mishap: Can’t your Subaru hear you over the engine roar? Check if the microphone is muted or obstructed. Cleaning the mic with a gentle touch can also work wonders.

Mazda CX-5 and General Mazda CarPlay Troubleshooting

• CX-5 Connectivity Chaos: If your Mazda CX-5 is playing connection ping-pong with CarPlay, try disconnecting and reconnecting your iPhone. Switching USB ports might also do the trick.
• General Glitches: For general CarPlay woes in any Mazda model, the usual suspects apply: software updates, system reboots, and checking for app compatibility issues.

Citroen’s Unique CarPlay Issues and Resolutions

• French Flair, Tech Frustrations: Citroens can be a bit French when it comes to tech. If CarPlay isn’t playing nice, ensure you’re using an original Apple cable. Aftermarket options may not be compatible.
• Touchy Times (Part Deux): Similar to MGs, Citroen touch screens can be finicky. Clean the screen thoroughly and avoid using sharp objects or excessive pressure when tapping.

Volvo’s Approach to Fixing Greyed Out CarPlay

• Grey be Gone! For Volvos plagued by the grayed-out icon, the solution might be simpler than you think. Try a hard reset of the infotainment system by holding down the power button for about ten second.
• Double-check the Data: Ensure your Volvo’s data plan is active and has sufficient bandwidth for CarPlay to function smoothly.

Peugeot CarPlay Problems: Diagnosis and Repair

• Connection Catastrophe: Like Kias, Peugeots sometimes struggle with CarPlay connection—Double-check Bluetooth settings and pairing modes on both devices. If the problem persists, consult your Peugeot dealership.
• Appy Ever After: Outdated or buggy apps can cause issues with CarPlay in any car, including Peugeots. Update your apps regularly and uninstall any you suspect might be causing trouble.

Easy Fixes for When Apple CarPlay Just Won’t Cooperate

Here’s a straightforward guide to get CarPlay up and running again.

Getting the Basics Right

1. Where Do You Live?: First off, CarPlay isn’tis only available in some places. So, make sure it’s supported in your country or region. It’s like checking if your favorite TV show is aired in your area.
2. Is Your Car a CarPlay Fan?: Not all cars are friends with CarPlay. If you’re scratching your head wondering if yours is, call your car manufacturer or check online.
3. Phone Update: Got the latest iOS on your iPhone? If not, it’s time for an update. Think of it like updating your favorite game to get the cool new features.

Connection Check: Wired or Wireless?

1. USB Troubles: Are you using a cable to connect? Try a different USB cable or port. It’s like trying other chargers when your phone doesn’t charge.
2. Going Wireless?: If you’re connecting over Bluetooth, turn it on in your iPhone settings. Also, check your Wi-Fi settings and see if you’re connected to the CarPlay network.

When CarPlay Plays Hard to Get

1. Manual Start: Can’t see CarPlay pop up automatically? Look for the CarPlay logo on your car’s display and tap it.
2. Restarting Both Worlds: Sometimes, turning your iPhone and car off and back on works wonders. It’s like rebooting your computer when it gets slow.
3. Siri, are You There?: Ensure Siri is enabled. No Siri, no CarPlay – they’re best buddies.
4. CarPlay Restrictions: Head to your iPhone’s settings and check if CarPlay is allowed under the Screen Time and Privacy settings. It’s like making sure your parents haven’t blocked your favorite game.
5. Forget and Reconnect: In your iPhone settings, under CarPlay, tap on your car and select ‘Forget This Car’. Then, reconnect like it’s a new friendship.
6. Car Stereo Update: Sometimes, your car’s system needs an update. It’s like updating your home Wi-Fi router for better internet.

Still Stuck?

1. Apple to the Rescue: If you’ve tried it all and it’s still a no-go, Apple Support is your next stop.
2. USB-C Connector Tips: Using a USB-C to Lightning Adapter? While it works for most, sometimes it’sthere are better fits than this. Try a direct USB connection instead.

Reference Article

• https://support.apple.com/en-us/105109
• https://www.reddit.com/r/XVcrosstrek/comments/y99imc/car_play_app_icon_grayed_out/
• https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252661057?sortBy=best