CarPlay Problems After iOS 18.4? Here's What’s Going On — And How to Fix It

Have you recently updated your iPhone to iOS 18.4, only to find that CarPlay is acting up? You're definitely not alone. A growing number of users have reported issues ranging from connection failures to missing information on the dashboard.

In this post, we’ll break down:

• The most common CarPlay problems after iOS 18.4

• Workarounds you can try right now

• What to expect from the upcoming iOS 18.5 update

What’s Going Wrong with CarPlay After iOS 18.4?

While iOS 18.4 brings exciting new features to iPhone users, it also seems to have introduced some unexpected bugs affecting CarPlay. Here are the main complaints:

1. Connection Issues

• Some iPhones no longer connect to the car’s infotainment system at all.

• Others only connect using specific USB ports, or the connection drops frequently.

2. Missing Dashboard Information

• Data like the "Now Playing" section or navigation maps fail to load or disappear entirely.

• This disrupts the once smooth and intuitive CarPlay experience.

3. Multiple Car Brands Affected

This isn’t a case of isolated brand incompatibility. Reports come from users driving Audi, Ford, Honda, Mazda, and more.
A user on Reddit even shared that Volkswagen told them, “Apple needs to fix this.”

Temporary Fixes (That May or May Not Work)

Some users have tried the following solutions with mixed results:

• Restarting their iPhone

• Unpairing and reconnecting their device to the car

• Rebooting the car’s infotainment system

While these methods work for a few people, many still report ongoing issues.

A Fix Is Coming: iOS 18.5 Is in the Works

The good news? Apple is actively working on a fix, and it’s likely to arrive with the iOS 18.5 update, currently in beta testing. The full public release is expected as early as next month.

Here’s why you should keep an eye on this update:

• It’s designed to resolve current CarPlay bugs

• Beta testers are already reporting improvements

• Apple will likely include official fixes in the release notes

What You Can Do While Waiting for the Fix

In the meantime, here are a few tips to stay ahead:

✅ Follow forums and Apple support updates — Reddit, MacRumors, and Apple’s official channels are great resources
✅ Enable update notifications — so you’ll be alerted the moment iOS 18.5 goes live
⚠️ Consider downgrading iOS — only if you're experienced and comfortable with the risks (not recommended for most users)

Why Are These Bugs So Hard to Fix?

CarPlay depends on seamless communication between Apple’s software and a wide range of vehicle infotainment systems. This makes troubleshooting complex—Apple must fix its own code while ensuring compatibility with each car’s interface.

While these issues can take time to address, Apple is known for resolving widespread bugs swiftly and thoroughly.

A Solution Is in Sight 🚗✨

The iOS 18.4 CarPlay issue is frustrating—but help is on the way. Apple is aware of the problem and working behind the scenes to resolve it in iOS 18.5.

Until then, we appreciate your patience. If you have your own experience to share, or questions about the upcoming fix, drop a comment below. And remember: your playlists and smooth drives should be back soon!