How to Use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in Your Volkswagen

Your VW’s infotainment system covers the basics, but if you’d rather use your phone for maps, music, or messages, Volkswagen Apple CarPlay or Android Auto lets you plug in and drive with your favorite apps right on your screen.

How to Use Volkswagen Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

Step One: Launch App-Connect

Start by tapping App-Connect on your infotainment screen. This feature allows your car to mirror select features from your phone, including calls, music, messages, navigation, calendars, and voice control (Siri or Google Assistant). Once you’re in, select Android Auto (if you’re using an Android phone) or Apple CarPlay (if you’ve got an iPhone).

Step Two: Connect Your Phone

Option A: Wired Connection

Make sure you’ve got a proper USB-C cable that supports data transfer, not just charging. Plug one end into your phone and the other into the car’s data USB-C port. When prompted, tap ‘OK’ on the infotainment screen and ‘Allow’ on your phone.

Option B: Wireless Connection

Ensure that Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are switched on. Then look at the list of available devices on your phone and select the one that says MY VW XXX (the last four digits of your VIN). A pairing code will pop up. If it matches on both screens, tap ‘Yes’ in the car and ‘Pair’ on your phone. Accept any other prompts, and you’re good to go.

At this point, your phone should be fully linked, and you can access your favorite apps directly from the car’s display. Note that these steps are only needed for the initial setup. Once paired, your vehicle will remember your device and connect much faster from there on.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Does Wi-Fi Need To Be On?

Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay use a lot of data: video for the interface, audio for music and calls, GPS, Siri, and touch inputs. Bluetooth alone can’t handle that much. It’s too limited in bandwidth. Wi-Fi, on the other hand, can.

Here’s how it works: Bluetooth handles the initial handshake when you enter the car. Then, your Volkswagen creates a closed Wi-Fi network. The Wi-Fi credentials are passed to your phone over Bluetooth. Your phone connects to the car’s Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto launches, and Bluetooth steps aside. Everything else flows through Wi-Fi.

Phone Doesn’t Use USB-Cable?

If your phone does not have a USB-C port, you’ll need a compatible adapter. For iPhones, that usually means a certified USB-C to Lightning cable.

Need a hand getting Android Auto or Apple CarPlay up and running? Swing by Tom Bush Volkswagen in Jacksonville, FL. Whether it’s pairing, cables or wireless setup, our team can walk you through it and have you connected in no time.

Tags: Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
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