CarPlay issues on iPhone 16e and Honda Ridgeline

See if any other tips in the article help.

How to Fix CarPlay Not Working on iOS 26.2: 7 Solutions

Here are some more things you might try.

1. Check Your Physical Connection (Wired)

If you use a cable, the most common culprit is a "charge-only" cable or a faulty adapter.

Use a Data-Rated Cable: Ensure you are using a high-quality USB-C to USB-C or USB-A to USB-C cable that supports data transfer, not just charging. Apple-certified (MFi) or branded cables (like Anker or Belkin) are recommended.

The "Right" Port: Many cars have multiple USB ports, but often only one is wired for data/CarPlay. Look for a port with a smartphone or CarPlay icon.

Clean the Port: Use compressed air or a toothpick to gently clear any lint or debris from the iPhone 16e’s USB-C port.

2. Verify iPhone Settings

Sometimes a single toggle prevents the connection from initiating.

Siri Must Be On: CarPlay will not function if Siri is disabled. Go to Settings > Siri & Search and ensure "Listen for 'Hey Siri'" and "Allow Siri When Locked" are turned on.

Screen Time Restrictions: Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps. Make sure CarPlay is toggled ON.

Allow While Locked: Go to Settings > General > CarPlay, select your car, and ensure Allow CarPlay While Locked is enabled.

3. Refresh the Software Connection

If the phone and car aren't "talking," a reset of the handshake usually fixes it.

Forget and Re-pair: 1. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay, tap your car, and select Forget This Car.

2. In your car’s infotainment settings, delete your iPhone from the device list.

3. Reconnect via cable or Bluetooth to set it up as new.

Reset Network Settings: This clears saved Wi-Fi and Bluetooth data (you will need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords later). Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

4. Known 2026 Bugs & Fixes

VPN Interference: If you use a VPN, try disabling it. VPNs often interfere with the Wi-Fi "handshake" required for wireless CarPlay.

Infotainment Reboot: Some car systems (like those in newer Toyotas or Subarus) benefit from a "hard reboot." Hold the volume/power knob down for 10–15 seconds until the screen goes dark and restarts.

iOS Updates: Ensure you are on the latest version of iOS (e.g., iOS 19 or the latest 2026 patch), as Apple frequently releases "stability fixes" for the iPhone 16 series.

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Pro Tip: If you are using wireless CarPlay and it keeps dropping, try changing the name of your iPhone in Settings > General > About > Name. A unique name can sometimes resolve "handshake" conflicts with the car's memory.