Bluetooth Connectivity Issue: iPhone 16 (iOS 18) and 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Hi everyone,


I’m experiencing a frustrating Bluetooth issue between my iPhone 16 running iOS 18 and my 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The phone connects via Bluetooth for a moment and then immediately disconnects—this loop continues endlessly.


The only temporary fix I’ve found is restarting the iPhone. After a reboot, Bluetooth works normally with the car, but only until the next time I use it—then the problem comes back again.


I’ve tried:


Forgetting and re-pairing the device


Resetting network settings on the iPhone


Updating both the iPhone and the car’s infotainment system



Is anyone else having this issue? Any permanent fixes or workarounds?


Thanks in advance!





iPhone 16 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Apr 24, 2025 04:49 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 29, 2025 11:08 AM

Infotainment system is fully updated. I suppose it could be a Toyota update issue. However, interestingly, my wife has a 2021 Toyota Highlander and has no issues. I assume it would be the same software update. She also upgraded to an iPhone 16 and it has BT connections issues with my car (RAV4). So, I know it's not just my phone. Frustrating.

Similar questions

14 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 29, 2025 11:08 AM in response to ChrisJ4203

Infotainment system is fully updated. I suppose it could be a Toyota update issue. However, interestingly, my wife has a 2021 Toyota Highlander and has no issues. I assume it would be the same software update. She also upgraded to an iPhone 16 and it has BT connections issues with my car (RAV4). So, I know it's not just my phone. Frustrating.

Apr 24, 2025 11:37 PM in response to Peter_2025

If CarPlay doesn't detect your iPhone, make sure CarPlay isn't restricted. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. If Content & Privacy Restrictions are turned on, tap Allowed Apps and make sure CarPlay is enabled. Go to Settings > General > CarPlay, tap your car, and then tap Forget This Car.


If you need help with CarPlay - Apple Support (IN)



Search for accessories that have completed MFi certification. Once an accessory has completed MFi certification requirements and is reported to Apple as sold/distributed, it will be searchable in our public database of authorized Lightning, headset, charging, iAP-enabled, and Find My network-enabled accessories.


Learn how to identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning-based accessories.



On your device, go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth. Stay on this screen until you've completed the steps to pair your accessory.


Pair a third-party Bluetooth accessory with your iPhone or ...



If you're still having trouble with your car's audio system using CarPlay or Bluetooth, try the Aux cable. To get it fixed, there are two options:


  1. Take your car to a reputable car dealer or car audio specialist. They have experienced technicians who can diagnose the problem with the Aux cable. This could be a loose connection, a faulty cable itself, or an issue with the system's Aux port. They'll be able to repair the issue or recommend a replacement cable if needed.
  2. Consult your car's infotainment system manuals. These manuals often include troubleshooting sections that might address common Aux cable problems. You might find instructions for resetting the system, cleaning the Aux port, or confirming the cable's compatibility.


Before taking your car to a dealer, it's always a good idea to check the manuals first. This can sometimes save you time and money if it's a simple fix you can handle yourself. However, if the manuals don't offer a solution, or you're uncomfortable tinkering with the system, then a car audio specialist is the way to go.



Refer to the list of cars that are compatible with CarPlay --> iOS - CarPlay - Available Models



Apr 29, 2025 11:13 AM in response to dave_scott

I understand it being frustrating, however as I said earlier, the reports that I've seen have been restricted to RAV4 Hybrids. It would seem there is something specific to that particular model. There are other posts about that vehicle here in the forum.


Have you tried to connect your phone to her vehicle? Does it work with her vehicle. My guess would be yes, since her iPhone 16 works in her car but not yours.

Apr 29, 2025 10:59 AM in response to dave_scott

So it is possible that your Toyota needs an update to the infotainment system. It is up to the vehicle manufacturer to be sure that their systems work with Bluetooth devices, not the other way around. Newer devices can have newer versions of software that manufacturers need to ensure their devices will work with. When you see a number of issues with a single version of vehicle, it is usually the vehicle's fault.

May 2, 2025 08:26 AM in response to Peter_2025

Peter_2025 wrote:

So once again, thank you Apple and Toyota for prioritizing road safety so well that I have to keep rebooting my phone to make a hands-free call.

Apple is not going to see this here. This is a user to user support forum and Apple does not participate here. The only thing I could suggest now is to reach out to Apple Support. We have 3 iPhone 16 models in the family and none have experienced any Bluetooth issues with the latest iOS 18.4.1 installed. They can run diagnostics on your device and see if there is an issue with Bluetooth.


Here is information for contacting Apple Support, thanks to fellow ASC member Lawrence Finch.


Best way: 

  • Install the Apple Support app on your iPhone or iPad - you can contact support directly from the app, and the tech will have (with your permission) access to diagnostic data on your device



Other options:

(Note that both of the above have options to receive a callback or chat)


Apr 25, 2025 07:33 AM in response to SravanKrA

Thanks for the suggestion! In my case, CarPlay is not restricted in Screen Time, and I've already tried forgetting and re-adding the car in Settings > General > CarPlay.


My issue seems to be more related to Bluetooth auto-reconnecting—after I turn off the car and come back, my iPhone doesn’t always reconnect automatically via Bluetooth, which prevents CarPlay from launching unless I manually reconnect.


If anyone has tips specifically about fixing Bluetooth auto-reconnect problems with CarPlay, I’d really appreciate it!

Jul 1, 2025 06:27 PM in response to Peter_2025

I have had this exact same problem. We had no issues with our previous iphone 15. It connected fine via bluetooth, and was used regularly. As soon as we upgraded to the iPhone 16 this problem began. It happens with both of the new iphone 16s. Cycling constantly between connected and not connected. The only work around we've been able to succeed with is plugging in via USB for car play. Then everything works fine. The only changes in the situation was upgrading the phone model and IOS version since the iPhone 15 / iOS 17 combo worked.

May 2, 2025 06:17 AM in response to Peter_2025

Quick update:


The CarPlay dongle I mentioned earlier (https://a.co/d/cRiwcUi) had been working just fine with my iPhone and 2022 RAV4 Hybrid—until yesterday.


Now the exact same issue is happening: the Bluetooth portion of the connection fails, just like with the car’s built-in infotainment system. The only way to fix it? You guessed it—restart the iPhone, and then it works perfectly again… until the next time.


At this point, I’m pretty convinced this is an iOS issue, not Toyota’s fault. The fact that it happens even with third-party devices makes it hard to blame the vehicle.


So once again, thank you Apple and Toyota for prioritizing road safety so well that I have to keep rebooting my phone to make a hands-free call.

Bluetooth Connectivity Issue: iPhone 16 (iOS 18) and 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.