How do I mirror my phone to my Chevy MyLink?
You generally cannot mirror your entire phone screen to Chevy MyLink. Instead, you project compatible apps through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, using either a wired connection or wireless projection if your model supports it.
What MyLink supports and how it works
Before you start, it helps to know that Chevy’s MyLink system relies on Android Auto or Apple CarPlay for on-screen phone integration. Depending on your vehicle’s year, trim, and firmware, you may have wired or wireless options. This guide walks you through the common setups so you can access navigation, messaging, music, and more on the dash display.
Using Android Auto
Android Auto connects your Android phone to MyLink so you can run compatible apps on the car’s display. The method varies by whether you’re using a cable or a wireless connection.
Wired Android Auto
- Prepare your device: ensure your Android phone runs Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or newer, with Android Auto installed and permissions granted (location, microphone, contacts, etc.). Use a data-capable USB cable (not just a charging cable).
- Connect: plug the USB cable into the vehicle’s USB port designated for Android Auto, and connect the other end to your phone.
- Activate on the car: on the MyLink screen, select Android Auto or Projection. Your phone may display prompts to allow access and enable always-allow permissions.
- Use the display: once connected, you’ll see supported apps (Maps, Messages, Spotify, etc.) on the car’s screen. Siri or Google Assistant can assist with hands-free control when available.
Wired connections provide a reliable, consistent link and often charge your phone while in use. They do not mirror every phone function; instead, they project predefined Android Auto-compatible apps.
Wireless Android Auto
- Check compatibility:Wireless Android Auto is available on many newer GM models; confirm that your vehicle supports it in its settings or user guide.
- Phone setup: on the phone, go to Settings > Connected devices > Android Auto, and enable Android Auto Wireless. Ensure Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth are on.
- Car setup: in MyLink, enable Wireless Android Auto (the car may require initial pairing via Bluetooth and a one-time setup).
- Connect and use: follow prompts on both devices to complete pairing. Once connected, you can access compatible apps on the dashboard without a USB cable.
Wireless Android Auto offers convenience, but its availability depends on the model year, trim, and firmware. If it’s not available, use the wired method above.
Using Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay mirrors iPhone apps on the MyLink display. Like Android Auto, CarPlay can be wired or wireless depending on your vehicle’s capabilities.
Wired Apple CarPlay
- Prepare your iPhone: ensure iPhone 5 or later with iOS 7.1 or later; unlock the phone and allow CarPlay to access while locked if prompted.
- Connect: plug your iPhone into the USB port designated for CarPlay (the port may be labeled or documented in your owner’s manual).
- On-screen setup: select CarPlay on the MyLink screen and follow prompts to enable permissions and complete pairing.
- Use CarPlay apps: Maps, Messages, Music, and other CarPlay-enabled apps appear on the display; use Siri for hands-free control.
Wired CarPlay offers a stable connection and can charge the phone while in use. It does not mirror every phone function, only CarPlay-compatible apps.
Wireless Apple CarPlay
- Phone readiness: on the iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay and ensure your car is listed; enable Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi as needed.
- Car setup: in MyLink, choose CarPlay as the source; your iPhone will connect via wireless (Wi‑Fi) when in range.
- Usage: CarPlay-enabled apps appear on the display and can be controlled with Siri or touch, depending on your vehicle’s interface.
Wireless CarPlay depends on model year, trim, and firmware. If your Chevy doesn’t support wireless CarPlay, use a wired connection instead.
What to do if your MyLink doesn’t support CarPlay/Android Auto
Not all older Chevy models or MyLink versions support phone projection. If you don’t see Android Auto or CarPlay options, you may be limited to Bluetooth audio and basic hands-free calling. In some cases, an aftermarket head unit that supports CarPlay/Android Auto can be installed, but that requires professional installation and can affect your vehicle’s electronics and warranty.
Tips for a smooth setup
Clear prompts on your phone and car display can vary by software version. Here are practical tips to minimize hiccups:
- Use a high-quality, data-capable USB cable for wired connections to avoid intermittent drops.
- Agree to all permission prompts on your phone during the first connection, and consider setting CarPlay/Android Auto to “Always Allow.”
- Ensure your vehicle’s firmware is up to date and check for any GM/ Chevrolet updates that enable newer features.
- Keep your eyes on the road and use voice control when possible to reduce distraction.
Following these steps helps you get the most out of your Chevy MyLink projection options, while keeping safety and reliability in focus.
Summary
In practice, you don’t mirror your entire phone screen to Chevy MyLink. Instead, you use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay to project select apps and features onto the dash, via wired USB or wireless projection where supported. Confirm your vehicle’s compatibility, prepare the correct cable or enable wireless settings, and follow the on-screen prompts to pair and grant permissions. If CarPlay/Android Auto isn’t available in your model, upgrading the head unit or consulting a professional installer may be options to explore.
