CarPlay is pixelated with iPhone 18 Pro

The problem could also be related to a firmware update for your car’s infotainment system, a CarPlay compatibility issue, or a communication glitch between the iPhone and the vehicle. Just because the issue appeared after an upgrade does not automatically mean that the model is responsible.

Have you checked whether your car manufacturer has released any firmware updates for the infotainment system? More importantly, have you contacted the manufacturer or an authorised service centre to report the issue and check for known CarPlay compatibility problems?

If CarPlay doesn't detect your iPhone, make sure CarPlay isn't restricted. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. If Content & Privacy Restrictions are turned on, tap Allowed Apps and make sure CarPlay is enabled. Go to Settings > General > CarPlay, tap your car, and then tap Forget This Car.

If you need help with CarPlay - Apple Support (IN)

Search for accessories that have completed MFi certification. Once an accessory has completed MFi certification requirements and is reported to Apple as sold/distributed, it will be searchable in our public database of authorized Lightning, headset, charging, iAP-enabled, and Find My network-enabled accessories.

Learn how to identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning-based accessories.

On your device, go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth. Stay on this screen until you've completed the steps to pair your accessory.

Pair a third-party Bluetooth accessory with your iPhone or ...

If you're still having trouble with your car's audio system using CarPlay or Bluetooth, try the Aux cable. To get it fixed, there are two options:

1. Take your car to a reputable car dealer or car audio specialist. They have experienced technicians who can diagnose the problem with the Aux cable. This could be a loose connection, a faulty cable itself, or an issue with the system's Aux port. They'll be able to repair the issue or recommend a replacement cable if needed.
2. Consult your car's infotainment system manuals. These manuals often include troubleshooting sections that might address common Aux cable problems. You might find instructions for resetting the system, cleaning the Aux port, or confirming the cable's compatibility.

Before taking your car to a dealer, it's always a good idea to check the manuals first. This can sometimes save you time and money if it's a simple fix you can handle yourself. However, if the manuals don't offer a solution, or you're uncomfortable tinkering with the system, then a car audio specialist is the way to go.

Refer to the list of cars that are compatible with CarPlay --> iOS - CarPlay - Available Models

Most cars today are designed to support either Android Auto or Apple CarPlay at a time, not both simultaneously. This limitation comes from how the infotainment system establishes a connection: it prioritizes one protocol (Android Auto or CarPlay) depending on the connected device.

Here’s how it typically works:

• Single protocol per session: When you plug in an Android phone, the system launches Android Auto. If you later connect an iPhone, you’ll need to disconnect the Android device first, then switch to CarPlay.
• Manual switching: Some cars allow you to toggle between Android Auto and CarPlay in the infotainment settings, but you still can’t run them side by side.
• Device priority: If both devices are connected, the car usually defaults to the first one it detects. To change, you must remove or disable the current connection.
• Reason for limitation: Running both simultaneously would require parallel handling of two distinct ecosystems, which complicates interface design, audio routing, and driver safety compliance.

A few premium or newer infotainment systems are starting to experiment with multi-device support, but it’s rare. For most drivers, the practical solution is:

• Use Android Auto if you want to connect an Android device.
• Disconnect and switch to CarPlay if you want to use an iPhone.