Connecting your iPhone to your car doesn’t always mean you want Apple CarPlay to take over your infotainment system. Some drivers find CarPlay distracting, while others might simply prefer a different connection method. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on how to disable Apple CarPlay, both on your iPhone and through your car’s settings.
A hand holding an iPhone.Image: Connecting an iPhone to a car’s USB port.
When you connect your iPhone to a CarPlay-enabled car, a notification pops up asking if you want to activate CarPlay while your phone is locked. Declining this doesn’t disable CarPlay entirely; it only prevents automatic connection when your phone is locked. To fully disable CarPlay, follow the steps below.
Disabling CarPlay on Your iPhone
There are two methods for disabling CarPlay on your iPhone, depending on your iOS version. Here’s how to navigate the settings:
For Newer iPhone Models
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Screen Time.
- Select Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Enable restrictions and then choose Allowed Apps.
- Toggle CarPlay off.
For Older iPhone Models
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap General.
- Select Restrictions.
- Enable restrictions and set a passcode.
- Toggle the CarPlay option to Off.
You can also temporarily disconnect CarPlay from a specific vehicle. In Settings, go to General, then CarPlay, and select the connected car. Choose to forget or disable the connection. This won’t permanently disable CarPlay, but you’ll need to re-approve the connection next time you plug in. If you decline, your iPhone will simply charge. This temporary disabling option is useful in various situations.
Disabling CarPlay Through Your Car’s Settings
2021 Hyundai Elantra CarPlay interface.Image: A car’s infotainment system interface with CarPlay.
Many car manufacturers provide options to disable CarPlay directly through the vehicle’s infotainment system. For instance, in Ford vehicles equipped with Sync 3, you can disable CarPlay by navigating to Preferences and selecting the connected iPhone. The system then allows you to disable CarPlay for that specific device.
Other manufacturers have different approaches. Jaguar, for example, prompts you upon connection to choose between CarPlay or a standard Bluetooth connection for music and calls. You can even set your preference to be remembered for future connections, which is convenient for regular use.
Unfortunately, there’s no universal method for disabling CarPlay in every car. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact your manufacturer or dealership for specific instructions.
Re-enabling CarPlay
Disabling CarPlay is reversible. You can easily re-enable it through your iPhone or car settings whenever you want. Switching CarPlay on and off doesn’t affect its functionality. There are no negative consequences or drawbacks to toggling the feature. So, feel free to disable CarPlay temporarily when needed, and then re-enable it when you’re ready to use it again.
