Note for 2025 Readers: We've updated this guide to ensure it's fully compatible with the newest software from Apple. All Siri commands, features, and troubleshooting steps below have been verified for the latest version of iOS 18 and CarPlay.
To ensure this guide reflects the most current capabilities of CarPlay and Siri, we have reviewed the latest iOS and iPadOS release notes from Apple. The commands and features detailed herein are confirmed to be functional with the latest public software versions available in 2025. For a comprehensive list of all changes and features in Apple's most recent updates, you can always refer to the official iOS and iPadOS Release Notes on Apple's developer website.
How to Enable Siri for CarPlay (Step-by-Step)
Enabling Siri for CarPlay is simple, but it requires a few steps on your iPhone. Make sure your iphone and car stereo are compatible before you start! (for full details, check the official Apple CarPlay support page)
Step 1: Turn on Siri on your iPhone
- Open Settings > Siri / Siri & Search.
- Enable the “Hey Siri” or "Siri or Hey Siri" option in "Listen for".
- Enable Press Side Button for Siri (or Home Button on older models).
- Turn on "Allow Siri When Locked" for hands-free use while driving.
Step 2: Connect CarPlay
There are two main ways to connect CarPlay: via USB cable or wireless CarPlay.
Option A: Connect with a USB cable
Most cars with built-in CarPlay offer a USB port, usually near the center console.
- Plug your iPhone into the car’s USB port using a Lightning cable.
- The CarPlay icon will appear on your car’s display.
- Tap it, and your iPhone screen will switch into CarPlay mode.
This method is fast, stable, and keeps your phone charging while you ride or drive.
Option B: Connect wirelessly
If your car supports wireless CarPlay, you can pair it just like Bluetooth.
Method1 – Via Your PCM
- Make sure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are both turned on.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay.
- Go back to your PCM: Select Connect Apple CarPlay.
- Select your vehicle on your iPhone and confirm pairing by clicking Pair.
- If desired, allow your contacts and favorites to sync.
- On your IPhone, confirm that you want to use CarPlay with your vehicle.
- In the infotainment system, click Accept.
- Accept the terms of use by tapping Yes.
- Apple CarPlay will open automatically.
Method 2 – Via Voice Control
- On your iPhone, open Settings > General > CarPlay.
- Press and hold your vehicle's voice control button until your iPhone name appears in the PCM, then tap the name.
- Confirm pairing by clicking Pair.
- If desired, allow your contacts and favorites to sync.
- Confirm the terms of use by tapping Yes.
- Apple CarPlay will open automatically.
If your vehicle doesn't come with CarPlay built-in, don't worry. You can still enjoy a full CarPlay experience by connecting your iPhone to an Aoocci wireless touchscreen or wireless CarPlay adapter. It gives you all the smart features of CarPlay without needing to upgrade your car's head unit.
Step 3: Test Siri
- Say “Hey Siri” or press the voice button on your steering wheel/touch screen.
- Ask for a simple command like “Navigate to the nearest gas station”.
Common Problems & Fixes
1. Siri not responding in CarPlay
- Confirm Siri is enabled on iPhone (Settings > Siri & Search).
- Ensure CarPlay is allowed under Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy.
- Toggle Settings > General > CarPlay and reconnect the vehicle.
- Turn on "Allow CarPlay When Locked" in your iPhone settings
2. “Hey Siri” doesn’t wake
- Re-train “Hey Siri” in Siri & Search.
- Keep iPhone screen unlocked the first time to grant permissions.
- For wireless: avoid interference (Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz).
3. Microphone issues or Siri can’t hear you
- Clean/inspect the vehicle mic path; close windows at highway speeds.
- Check iPhone mic permissions for Messages/Maps/WhatsApp.
- Upgrade path: many factory mics struggle in noisy trucks or on motorcycles.
4. Bluetooth/Wi-Fi instability
- Disable VPN/Hotspot temporarily; keep iOS updated.
- Forget and re-pair the CarPlay connection.
- Tap Settings, then select General.
- Tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Reset, then Reset Network Settings.Turn on 'Allow CarPlay When Locked' in your iPhone settings
What You Can Do with Siri in CarPlay
Siri isn’t just for sending messages—it can handle almost everything while you’re driving:
-
Hands-free calling and texting
- “Hey Siri, call John.”
- “Hey Siri, send a message to Sarah: I’ll arrive in 10 minutes.”
-
Navigation
- “Hey Siri, take me to the nearest gas station.”
- “Hey Siri, what’s traffic like on my route?”
-
Music and entertainment
- “Hey Siri, play my driving playlist.”
- Works with Apple Music, Spotify, or podcasts.
-
Daily essentials
- “Hey Siri, what’s the weather?”
- “Hey Siri, read my calendar for today.”
For a complete list of Siri commands and capabilities on Apple's website, you can always refer to Apple's official documentation.
Pro Tips & Hidden Features
Want to get the most out of Siri on CarPlay? Try these advanced tricks:
-
Customize Siri responses
-
In Settings > Siri & Search, you can adjust when Siri gives voice feedback (always, hands-free only, or silent).
-
-
Use Siri Shortcuts
-
Create shortcuts like “Hey Siri, start my commute” → this can open Maps, play your favorite playlist, and send a text to family automatically.
-
-
Multi-language support
-
Perfect for international truck drivers or riders who prefer commands in different languages.
-
-
Safer control while riding
-
On motorcycles, Siri makes it possible to control music or get navigation without taking hands off the handlebars.
-
Getting the Most Out of Third-Party Apps
The true power of Siri and CarPlay shines when you use it with your favorite third-party apps. While the core commands above work for popular services, support and specific functionalities can vary between apps.
For the best experience, always ensure your apps are updated to their latest versions from the App Store. Developers continually improve CarPlay and Siri integration, adding new commands and optimizing performance.
If you're unsure about what Siri can do with a specific app, we recommend checking the developer's official support pages. Here are links to the CarPlay guides for some of the most commonly used apps:
- WhatsApp: Using WhatsApp with CarPlay
- Spotify: Spotify CarPlay Help
- Google Maps: Use Google Maps with Apple CarPlay
- Waze: Using Waze on Apple CarPlay
- Audible: How to use Audible in the car with CarPlay
Pro Tip: If a Siri command doesn’t work with your preferred app, try using more generic phrases like “Play my [Playlist Name] on Spotify” instead of “Play [Playlist Name] on Spotify”. The first command triggers Apple’s native music playback system, which then hands off to the third-party app, and can sometimes be more reliable.
Why an External Touchscreen Upgrade Makes Sense
Not every vehicle comes with CarPlay. And even if it does, the system may be outdated or limited. Here’s why an Aoocci external touchscreen is the smart choice:
-
For Cars
- Upgrade older cars that don’t have CarPlay.
- Enjoy wireless CarPlay and Android Auto without replacing the entire head unit.
-
For Motorcycles
- Specially designed waterproof, vibration-proof screens.
- Safer navigation and music control with Siri voice commands.
-
For Trucks
- Long-distance drivers benefit from a bigger screen, clearer navigation, and hands-free Siri operation.
- Stable wireless connection avoids dropped calls or lost navigation.
FAQ
Why is Siri not working on my CarPlay?
Ensure Siri is enabled and CarPlay permissions are allowed on iPhone. If your vehicle mic or wireless link is unreliable, an Aoocci screen offers a clearer mic and more stable wireless CarPlay.
Can I use Siri with wireless CarPlay?
Yes. Siri works with both wired and wireless CarPlay. Aoocci screens are optimized for fast pairing and stable wireless performance.
Does Siri work on motorcycles with CarPlay?
Absolutely. Pair your iPhone with an Aoocci motorcycle screen to use Siri for navigation, music, and calls—even with riding noise.
Do I need a new car to get Siri CarPlay?
No. Add an Aoocci wireless touchscreen to enable CarPlay and Siri on most vehicles with a simple, non-destructive installation.
Conclusion
Siri makes CarPlay safer and smarter—keeping your hands on the wheel (or handlebars) and your eyes on the road. Whether your vehicle has factory CarPlay or not, an Aoocci wireless touchscreen lets you enjoy Siri, CarPlay, and Android Auto with clearer audio and a brighter display.
