- If Apple CarPlay is not working in your Mercedes, it might be due to issues like a faulty USB cable, wireless connection problems, or outdated software. Ensure you use an Apple-certified cable and check that your car's software is up-to-date to resolve these issues.
- To fix CarPlay connectivity problems, ensure CarPlay is enabled in your car's settings, reset your iPhone’s network settings, or try re-pairing your device. You may also need to delete and re-add your vehicle in iPhone settings or perform a hard reboot on both systems.
- If these steps don’t solve the problem, try using a different iPhone or cable to determine if the issue is with your current device. For persistent issues,
Apple CarPlay is a core feature for many Mercedes-Benz owners, offering seamless integration between the iPhone and the vehicle’s infotainment system. However, it can be frustrating when Mercedes CarPlay is not working, especially if it was functioning correctly before.
This article provides a clear, structured troubleshooting guide for resolving Apple CarPlay issues in Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Whether you’re dealing with “Apple CarPlay could not be started Mercedes” or wondering why isn’t Apple CarPlay working in your car, the steps below will help identify and resolve the problem.
Common Reasons Why Apple CarPlay Is Not Working in Mercedes
There are multiple factors that can prevent Apple CarPlay from functioning properly in a Mercedes vehicle. Below are some of the most common causes:
- Incompatible or faulty USB cable
- Wireless CarPlay connection issues (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi conflict)
- Outdated MBUX or COMAND software
- iOS 17/18 CarPlay bugs (2024–2025 models)
- Siri or CarPlay restrictions in iOS settings
- VPN, content filters, or screen-time limits interfering with CarPlay
- Bluetooth pairing bugs after recent system updates
- Corrupted CarPlay profiles or cached data on either device
Mercedes Apple CarPlay Keeps Disconnecting? Here’s the Permanent Fix
1. Use the Correct USB Port (For Wired CarPlay Models)
Some Mercedes-Benz vehicles have multiple USB ports, but only one supports Apple CarPlay. Often, only the USB-C port with the phone icon or “Media” label will work.
- Use the USB port inside the center console or under the armrest
- Avoid using ports labeled “Charge Only”
- Try multiple ports if you’re unsure
2025 Update: Even newer Mercedes models with USB-C require high-speed data transfer cables, not just charging cables. Always use the original cable or Apple-certified ones that support full-speed USB 3.0 or higher.
2. Enable CarPlay in Mercedes Settings
Sometimes, Apple CarPlay is disabled by default or was turned off during a software update.
- On your MBUX screen, go to: Settings > System > Connectivity > Apple CarPlay
- Make sure CarPlay is enabled
- If wireless CarPlay isn’t showing up, turn Wi-Fi and Bluetooth ON in the same menu
- You may need to “Forget Device” and re-pair the iPhone for wireless setups.
3. Delete and Re-Add Your Mercedes from iPhone Settings
Sometimes the saved CarPlay profile becomes corrupted and causes repeated failures.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay
- Tap your Mercedes-Benz vehicle > Forget This Car
- Reconnect via USB (or Bluetooth/Wi-Fi for wireless models)
- Accept the pairing request and allow CarPlay permissions
This method often resolves the “Apple CarPlay could not be started” error.
4. Reset Network Settings (Fixes Wireless CarPlay Failures)
If your iPhone won’t connect wirelessly to CarPlay despite Bluetooth and Wi-Fi being on, your network stack may be corrupted.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings
- This will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth pairings
- Restart your iPhone and re-pair with your vehicle
This fix resolves over 80% of persistent wireless CarPlay issues (especially after iOS updates).
5. Update Mercedes Infotainment Software (MBUX / NTG Versions)
Many 2023–2025 Mercedes models with MBUX or NTG6/NTG7 systems now support OTA software updates. If you’re running outdated firmware, CarPlay bugs are common.
- On your infotainment screen: Settings > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.
- Or contact your dealer for the latest firmware
2025 Fixes: Recent MBUX updates resolved issues with iOS 17 compatibility, including:
- Random CarPlay disconnects
- Freezing on Apple Maps
- Touchscreen unresponsiveness during CarPlay use
6. Disable VPN, Content Filters, or Restrictions
Security apps, VPNs, and even Apple’s Screen Time restrictions can block CarPlay permissions.
- Disable VPN apps like NordVPN, AdGuard, or DNS filters
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps
- Make sure CarPlay and Siri are allowed
- Turn off any iOS driving focus modes temporarily
7. Hard Reboot Both Systems (Power Cycle Fix)
Temporary glitches in MBUX or iOS can cause one-time connection failures.
- iPhone: Press and release Volume Up > Volume Down > Hold Power button until the Apple logo appears
- Mercedes MBUX: Hold the power button on the infotainment knob/screen for 10+ seconds until the system reboots
After restarting both systems, reconnect the iPhone and test again.
8. Try a Different iPhone or Cable
To isolate whether the problem is with the vehicle or your iPhone:
- Test another iPhone (running same or different iOS version)
- Use a different Apple-certified cable
If another device connects successfully, your iPhone may have software issues requiring a deeper reset
9. Factory Reset Infotainment System (Last Resort)
This will wipe all user data and settings from your MBUX or COMAND system. Only perform if all else fails.
- Go to: Settings > System > Reset > Factory Reset
- Confirm and wait for the system to reboot
- Reconnect your iPhone via USB or wireless and test CarPlay
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why isn’t Apple CarPlay working after iOS 17 or iOS 18 update?
Some iOS updates cause temporary CarPlay bugs. Make sure your car’s firmware is also updated. Reset network settings and delete/re-add the vehicle in CarPlay settings.
What Mercedes models support wireless CarPlay in 2025?
Most 2019+ Mercedes models with MBUX (A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, GLC, GLS, etc.) support wireless CarPlay. Earlier models may require a wired connection or retrofitting.
How do I know if my Mercedes USB port supports CarPlay?
Look for a port labeled with a smartphone icon or “Media.” Avoid charge-only ports, which do not support data transfer.
Can dealership software updates fix CarPlay issues?
Yes. Mercedes releases frequent MBUX software patches to fix iOS-related bugs and improve wireless stability.
Final Thoughts
When Mercedes CarPlay is not working, it’s often due to a minor setting, a bad cable, or outdated software — all of which can be fixed with the steps outlined above. If you’re still having issues after trying these methods, a dealer diagnostic or infotainment system refresh may be necessary.
Need help identifying your exact Mercedes infotainment system (NTG5, NTG6, MBUX, etc.)? Or want to integrate Android Auto as well? Let me know — I’d be happy to assist.
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