Apple CarPlay is a convenient way to access navigation, music, and calls while driving. However, users sometimes encounter issues, with the black screen problem. This problem can leave you wondering why CarPlay is connected but not displaying anything.
Why Is My Apple CarPlay Screen Black?
Your Apple CarPlay screen may go black due to:
- Unstable or faulty connections between your iPhone and the car’s USB port.
- Compatibility issues with your iPhone model.
- Minor software glitches can lead to display issues.
- If the required settings are disabled on your iPhone.
- Outdated carplay firmware.
- A damaged, frayed, or incompatible USB-C cable may disrupt a wired connection.
- iOS updates or running an outdated iOS version can trigger CarPlay issues.
Fix Apple CarPlay Screen Black Issues
Here are seven effective troubleshooting methods to fix the Apple CarPlay black screen issue.
Check iPhone Compatibility
- Open the Apple CarPlay support page on Apple’s official website.
- Check if your iPhone model is listed as a supported device.
- Ensure that your car model also supports Apple CarPlay. Not all car manufacturers offer CarPlay in every vehicle model.
Restart Your iPhone
For iPhones with Face ID (iPhone X and later):
- Press and hold the Side Button + Volume Down/Up Button until the power off slider appears.
- Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone.
- Wait for 30 seconds, then press and hold the Side Button again to turn it back on.
For iPhones with a Home Button (iPhone 8 and earlier):
- Press and hold the Power Button until the power off slider appears.
- Slide to turn off the device, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on.
Restart the Car’s Infotainment System
Method 1: Turn off the car completely, remove the key, wait for a minute, and restart the engine.
Method 2: If your car has a separate restart option for the infotainment system, use that instead of restarting the entire vehicle.
Update Your iPhone to the Latest iOS Version
A software bug in iOS could be causing Apple CarPlay to display a black screen. Apple frequently releases iOS updates to fix such issues. Here are the steps to update your iPhone firmware:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
- Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery before proceeding with the update.
Check Your CarPlay Connection
Troubleshooting Wired Connection
Check Your USB Cable: Ensure that the USB cable isn’t damaged, frayed, or loose. Use an Apple-certified Lightning cable for the best compatibility.
Use a Different USB Port: Some cars have multiple USB ports, but not all support CarPlay. Try switching to another USB port.
Try a Different Cable: If you suspect the cable is faulty, test with a different Apple-certified Lightning cable.
Fixing Wireless Connection
Keep Bluetooth & Wi-Fi Enabled: Ensure that both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are turned on and that your iPhone is properly paired with your car’s system.
Reset Network Settings: If the connection keeps failing, try resetting network settings.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
Ensure Your Car is in Wireless Mode: Some vehicles require manual activation of wireless CarPlay. Check your car’s settings and enable Bluetooth or Wi-Fi mode for CarPlay.
Reconnect Your Car in CarPlay Settings
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Navigate to General > CarPlay.
- Select your car and tap Forget This Car.
- Restart your iPhone and re-add your car by reconnecting CarPlay via USB or Bluetooth.
Check Privacy & Content Restriction Settings
Your iPhone’s Screen Time settings might be blocking CarPlay, preventing it from working properly.
- Open Settings > Screen Time.
- Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Go to Allowed Apps & Features.
- Ensure CarPlay is toggled ON.
If you’ve tried all these solutions and CarPlay is still not working, consider contacting Apple Support or your car manufacturer for further assistance. Some vehicles may require firmware updates from the dealership to fix compatibility issues. Which of these solutions worked for you? Let me know in the comments.