Why isn t my chevrolet Bluetooth working?
In most Chevrolet Bluetooth problems, the issue comes down to pairing, software, or device compatibility. Re-pairing the device, updating firmware, and checking basic settings usually fixes the problem.
This guide outlines common causes, a step-by-step troubleshooting approach, and model-specific tips for popular Chevrolet vehicles to help you restore hands-free calling and music streaming.
Common causes of Bluetooth problems in Chevrolet vehicles
Understanding the typical culprits helps you target the fix quickly. The following issues cover the most frequent scenarios faced by drivers.
- Outdated or corrupted infotainment firmware
- Phone compatibility issues or unsupported features
- Bluetooth pairing not completed or devices still saved in the car’s or phone’s memory
- Phone settings blocking audio or hands-free calling (e.g., media routing or contacts access)
- Interference from other devices or a recent system reset
Addressing these items resolves the majority of Bluetooth problems without professional service.
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Begin with quick checks on both the phone and the car, then move to re-pairing and firmware updates if needed. This sequence covers the most common failure points.
- On your phone, ensure Bluetooth is on and the device is discoverable.
- In the Chevrolet infotainment system, turn Bluetooth on and verify the car is in pairing mode.
- Remove the car’s Bluetooth entry from your phone and erase the phone’s entry for the car in the infotainment system.
- Power off and then restart both the phone and the vehicle's infotainment system, then try pairing again.
- Check for available software updates for your phone and for the Chevrolet infotainment system; install if available.
- Test making calls and playing audio to confirm Bluetooth is functioning as expected.
If the issue persists after these steps, there may be a hardware fault in the infotainment module or the vehicle may require a dealer diagnostic.
Model-specific tips
Chevrolet Equinox (2018–2023)
Equinox models use GM’s MyLink infotainment platform. If Bluetooth fails or audio drops, use this model-specific checklist to resolve it.
- In your phone’s Bluetooth settings, forget the “Chevrolet MyLink” entry, then delete the car from MyLink’s paired device list.
- Reset the infotainment Bluetooth module (Settings > Bluetooth > Clear paired devices) and perform a fresh pairing from scratch.
- Restart both the phone and the vehicle, then re-pair and grant necessary permissions for contacts and media access.
- Ensure the audio output is routed to Bluetooth for calls and media; avoid routing through Apple CarPlay/Android Auto while testing Bluetooth audio.
- Check for MyLink firmware updates via GM/OnStar or your dealer and install the latest version.
If the problem remains unresolved after these steps, a dealer diagnostic may be needed to check the infotainment hardware.
Chevrolet Silverado / Tahoe (2019–2024)
Truck models share many Bluetooth characteristics with cars but may have different wiring for audio routing and hands-free features. Use this model-specific approach when you’re troubleshooting in a pickup.
- Verify that Bluetooth is enabled on the phone and that the Silverado/Tahoe is discoverable in the infotainment system.
- Remove all previously paired devices from both the phone and the truck’s Bluetooth list, then re-pair from scratch.
- If you regularly use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, test Bluetooth for calls and audio separately to ensure CarPlay isn’t occupying the audio channel.
- Update the infotainment system firmware if an update is available from the dealer; some models require a dealership update for full compatibility.
- Perform a soft reset of the infotainment system if the option is available (Settings > General > Reset or similar).
Hardware-related Bluetooth issues in trucks are less common but may require dealer intervention if the problem persists after updates and resets.
Chevrolet Malibu / Cruze (2016–2020)
Malibu and Cruze vehicles use MyLink with Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming. If problems persist, try this model-focused sequence.
- Forget the car on your phone and forget the phone on the car’s Bluetooth list, then re-pair.
- Check for and apply any available infotainment firmware updates from GM or your dealer.
- Ensure the phone’s media and Bluetooth permissions are enabled, and that the app you’re using isn’t competing with CarPlay/Android Auto.
- If you perform a system reset (soft reset) of the infotainment, be aware you may lose saved presets and radio favorites.
Persistent issues after updates and resets may indicate a need for service or a replacement infotainment module in older Malibu or Cruze units.
What to do if none of this works
If you’ve exhausted basic troubleshooting, contact your Chevrolet dealer or GM Customer Care. In some cases, Bluetooth problems are addressed by firmware recalls or field service bulletins, and a dealer can perform a diagnostic test or install a software update to restore full functionality.
Summary
Bluetooth problems in Chevrolet vehicles are most commonly caused by pairing issues, outdated software, or phone compatibility. A systematic approach—verify settings, remove and re-pair devices, update firmware, and test audio and calls—resolves the majority of cases. Model-specific checks for Equinox, Silverado/Tahoe, and Malibu/Cruze can help you address nuances in each infotainment setup. If issues persist after these steps, a dealer diagnostic is recommended to rule out hardware faults.
Why isn't my Uconnect Bluetooth working?
Ensure your phone's Bluetooth is on and visible. Delete old paired devices from both phone and Uconnect to avoid conflicts. Check for software updates via the Uconnect portal or dealership. If issues persist, inspect the Uconnect module fuse and reset the system by disconnecting the vehicle battery for a few minutes.
Why is my vehicle not connected to my Chevy app?
If your correct vehicle isn't appearing in the app, it is likely an account linking issue. This may be because your account is linked to an old email or you didn't link your account when you set up your profile. You'll have to manually link your account in your vehicle profile online.
How to reset Bluetooth on Chevy?
To reset your Chevy's Bluetooth, first try a soft reset by turning the vehicle off, opening and closing the door, waiting a few minutes, and then turning it back on. If that doesn't work, a hard reset of the infotainment system can be performed by holding the Home and Fast Forward buttons on the radio for 10 seconds until the Chevrolet logo appears.
Soft reset
- Turn your vehicle completely off.
- Open and close the driver's side door.
- Wait for about two minutes.
- Restart the vehicle and try pairing your phone again.
This video shows how to perform a soft reset of the infotainment system on a Chevy Malibu: 59sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Oct 23, 2025
Hard reset (infotainment system)
- This will clear all paired devices and personal settings.
- Hold down the Home and Fast Forward buttons on the radio's face simultaneously.
- Continue holding for 10 seconds until the Chevrolet logo appears on the screen, which indicates the system is rebooting.
This video demonstrates how to perform a hard reset of the audio and WiFi system on a Chevy Silverado: 57sDissecting DiyYouTube · Apr 2, 2025
Additional troubleshooting steps
- Delete from both devices: Go into your phone's Bluetooth settings and "forget" the car. Then, on the Chevy's infotainment screen, go to the Bluetooth menu and delete your phone. After this, try pairing them again from scratch.
- Use the settings menu: Navigate to Settings > System > Reset Options on the infotainment screen and choose to Clear All Paired Devices or perform a Factory Reset.
- Check for updates: Make sure both your phone's operating system and the vehicle's infotainment system software are up to date.
- Restart your phone: Turn your smartphone off, wait a moment, and turn it back on before attempting to pair again.
