How do I connect my Apple CarPlay to my Dodge Charger?

Connecting Apple CarPlay to a Dodge Charger is typically done via a wired USB connection, and some newer Chargers also support wireless CarPlay. The exact steps can vary by model year and infotainment version, so check your Uconnect system and iPhone compatibility.

In this guide, we walk you through checking compatibility, performing both wired and wireless connections where available, and troubleshooting common issues to get you back on the road with CarPlay smoothly integrated.

Wired CarPlay connection

To connect via USB, start by confirming that your Charger supports CarPlay and that your iPhone is compatible. Then follow the steps below to establish a reliable wired link.

1. On your iPhone, verify CarPlay is allowed for your car: Settings > General > CarPlay, and ensure your vehicle is listed or select your Dodge from the available cars. If prompted, allow CarPlay while your iPhone is locked.


2. Plug a certified Apple Lightning cable into your iPhone and connect the other end to the USB port in your Charger’s center console. Look for a port labeled CarPlay or a standard USB port if no label is present.


3. Wait for CarPlay to appear on the Uconnect display. If prompted on your iPhone, grant permission for CarPlay access.


4. Use the Uconnect touchscreen or steering wheel controls to launch and navigate CarPlay apps such as Maps, Messages, and Music.


5. If CarPlay doesn’t start automatically, try a different USB port, use a different Lightning cable (preferably Apple-certified), or restart both your iPhone and the vehicle’s infotainment system.

Wired CarPlay provides a stable connection with steady power delivery, which helps keep your iPhone charged during use.

Wireless CarPlay connection

Some Dodge Charger trims with newer Uconnect systems support wireless CarPlay. If your model is equipped for wireless CarPlay, you can connect without a cable by pairing over Bluetooth/Wi‑Fi and completing the CarPlay setup on your iPhone.

1. Confirm that your Charger supports wireless CarPlay and that you have a recent iPhone running iOS 7.1 or later (with CarPlay enabled). Check the vehicle’s manual or dealer documentation for compatibility.


2. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay > Available Cars, and ensure Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi are on. On the car’s screen, navigate to the Apple CarPlay pairing option.


3. Select your Charger from the list on the iPhone and follow on-screen prompts to complete the pairing. You may be asked to allow CarPlay access and to enable CarPlay while the phone is locked.


4. Once paired, CarPlay should appear on the Uconnect display and you can start using compatible apps just as you would with a wired connection.

Wireless CarPlay offers convenience, but it can be less consistent in some environments and may require occasional re-pairing. If wireless CarPlay isn’t available or isn’t working smoothly, the wired method described above remains a reliable alternative.

Troubleshooting CarPlay connection

Common issues and fixes

• Ensure your iPhone is unlocked and CarPlay is allowed for your car in Settings > General > CarPlay.


• Verify that Siri is enabled on your iPhone, as CarPlay relies on voice and prompt capabilities.


• Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version and check for any available updates to your vehicle’s Uconnect software (via dealer updates or available OTA updates).


• Use a certified Apple Lightning cable (avoid third-party charging cables that don’t support data). If using wired CarPlay, try a different USB port on the vehicle.


• Restart your iPhone and reset or restart the vehicle’s infotainment system if CarPlay remains unresponsive.


• If you’re attempting wireless CarPlay, verify Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi are enabled on the iPhone and that the car is selected in CarPlay settings; re-pair if necessary.


• Consult your Owner’s Manual or contact a Dodge dealer if CarPlay still doesn’t appear on the Uconnect screen, as some model years require specific software versions or trims to enable CarPlay.

Following these steps typically resolves the most common CarPlay connection problems. If issues persist, a dealer visit may be needed to verify hardware compatibility or update the infotainment system.

Summary

Connecting Apple CarPlay to a Dodge Charger usually involves a wired USB connection, with wireless CarPlay available on select models. Start by confirming compatibility on your iPhone and Uconnect system, then follow the wired or wireless setup steps. When problems arise, use the troubleshooting tips to restore a stable CarPlay experience, and consider professional updates if needed.

Why isn't my charger connecting to Apple CarPlay?

If Apple CarPlay won't work on your Charger's Uconnect radio, first verify the USB cable and port are functional. Restart the infotainment system and your iPhone. Check that CarPlay is enabled in settings and the iOS is updated. Faulty USB ports or outdated firmware can cause connectivity issues.

How do I connect my CarPlay to my Dodge Charger?

To use Apple CarPlay in a Dodge Charger, connect your iPhone to the Uconnect system via a USB cable or wirelessly for Uconnect 5 models, and follow the on-screen prompts. Ensure Siri is enabled on your iPhone and the necessary connections (Bluetooth for wireless, USB for wired) are active before connecting. 
This video demonstrates how to connect Apple CarPlay wirelessly to a Dodge Charger with Uconnect 5: 59sCars With SteveYouTube · Jun 11, 2022
Wired connection (Uconnect 4 and 5)

1. Make sure Siri is enabled on your iPhone in Settings > Siri & Search. 
2. Connect your iPhone to the USB port in the vehicle, which is often located in the center console armrest. 
3. Unlock your iPhone and follow any prompts on the Uconnect screen to enable Apple CarPlay. 
4. Once connected, the phone icon on the Uconnect screen will switch to the Apple CarPlay interface. 

Wireless connection (Uconnect 5)

1. Ensure both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your iPhone. 
2. On your iPhone, go to Settings > Wi-Fi and make sure you are connected to the vehicle's Wi-Fi network and that Auto-Join is enabled. 
3. Press the "Phone" button on your Uconnect system. 
4. Follow the prompts to pair your iPhone. The Phone icon will change to show CarPlay is active. 

You can watch this video to learn how to connect Apple CarPlay wirelessly to a Dodge Charger with Uconnect 5: 57sCars With SteveYouTube · Jun 25, 2022
Troubleshooting

• Check your cable: If using a wired connection, ensure your USB cable is a data-transfer cable and not frayed or broken, as a faulty cable is a common issue. 
• Check the correct port: Make sure you are using the correct USB port. Not all USB ports may support CarPlay. 
• Adjust iPhone settings: If CarPlay doesn't appear, double-check that your iPhone's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are on and that Siri is enabled. 
• Access Projection Manager: In your iPhone's settings under General > CarPlay, you can see your connected cars and customize the app layout. 

Why is Apple CarPlay not working on Uconnect?

Cables and Wireless Connections Are Where to Start
If you are having trouble with a connection, it might be worth trying a new cable or one you know is functioning properly. This ensures the cable isn't the reason your device and Uconnect can't talk to each other.

How to activate Apple CarPlay on Uconnect?

If your Uconnect® system includes Apple CarPlay® support, you do not need to take any special steps to access CarPlay; simply connect your smartphone and your Uconnect system will do the rest.