Chevy Cruze Apple CarPlay: Everything You Need to Know

If you own a Chevy Cruze and want to know whether your car supports Apple CarPlay, how to set it up, or what to do when things go wrong, you're in the right place.

Key Takeaway

• 2016 and newer Cruze models come with factory Apple CarPlay support as standard
• 2015 and older models need aftermarket head unit upgrades to get CarPlay
• Connection works through USB cable for all factory systems, with wireless available on some newer models
• Most connection problems can be fixed by checking your cable quality, updating iOS, or resetting your phone pairing
• Common issues include grayed out CarPlay icons, cable failures, and compatibility problems with newer iPhones

Which Chevy Cruze Models Have Apple CarPlay

The 2016 model year is where things changed for Apple CarPlay in the Chevy Cruze.

When Chevrolet redesigned the Cruze for 2016, they made Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across nearly all trim levels. This made the Cruze one of the first affordable compact sedans to offer this tech right out of the box. In fact, Chevrolet became the first automaker to offer both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across the majority of its vehicle lineup in 2016.

Every Cruze from 2016 through the final 2019 model year came equipped with the MyLink infotainment system that supports CarPlay. This includes the base L trim, the mid-level LS and LT, and the top Premier trim.

There's one exception worth mentioning. The 2016 Cruze Limited is a special case that causes confusion. This was the old first-generation Cruze sold alongside the redesigned 2016 model, mainly for fleet and rental customers. Some owners report their 2016 Limited doesn't have CarPlay because it uses the older infotainment system from the 2015 model.

If you have a 2016 Cruze Limited, check your actual screen. Look for the Apple CarPlay or Projection icon on your display. If you don't see it, your vehicle likely has the older system.

For 2017 through 2019 models, there's no confusion. All Cruze vehicles from these years support Apple CarPlay as standard equipment.

If you own a 2009 through 2015 Cruze, your factory radio doesn't support CarPlay. The technology simply didn't exist in consumer vehicles when these models were built. But there are aftermarket solutions for older models that we'll cover later in this article.

How to Connect Your iPhone to Chevy Cruze CarPlay

Setting up Apple CarPlay in your Cruze is pretty straightforward once you know the steps.

For Wired CarPlay (All 2016+ Models)

1. Make sure your iPhone is unlocked
2. Grab your iPhone's charging cable and plug it into one of the USB ports in your Cruze (usually in the center console area or near the radio)
3. Your MyLink screen should show a prompt asking if you want to enable Apple CarPlay – tap yes
4. On your iPhone, tap "Allow" when asked if you want to allow CarPlay while locked

Not all USB cables work for CarPlay. You need a data cable, not just a charging cable. The cable that came with your iPhone works perfectly. If you're using an aftermarket cable, make sure it's Apple certified with the "Made for iPhone" label.

If CarPlay doesn't launch automatically, look for the CarPlay or Projection icon on your MyLink home screen and tap it.

For Wireless CarPlay (Select 2018+ Models)

Some newer Cruze models support wireless CarPlay, though it wasn't standard on all vehicles.

1. Connect with a cable first (follow the wired setup steps above)
2. Once CarPlay is running through the cable, your MyLink system should prompt you asking if you want to enable wireless for future connections
3. Make sure your car is in Park when setting this up

After you enable wireless once, your Cruze will automatically connect to your iPhone when you start the car, as long as Bluetooth and WiFi are turned on for both devices.

iPhone Requirements

Your iPhone needs to be an iPhone 5 or newer. On 2024 and newer Chevy vehicles, you need iOS 14 or later, and keeping your iOS updated is always a good idea for Cruzes from earlier years too.

What You Can Do With Apple CarPlay in Your Cruze

Once connected, Apple CarPlay transforms your Cruze's screen into an iPhone extension designed for driving.

Navigation and Maps

You get access to Apple Maps, Google Maps, and Waze. The directions appear on your Cruze's screen with voice guidance through your car speakers. You can ask Siri for directions by pressing and holding the voice button on your steering wheel, then saying something like "Navigate to the nearest coffee shop."

This beats trying to prop your phone up somewhere or glance down at it while driving.

Phone Calls and Messages

CarPlay handles calls through your car's speakers and microphone. When someone calls, their name appears on your screen and you can answer with a steering wheel button or screen tap.

For texts, CarPlay reads them out loud to you. You can dictate replies using Siri without touching your phone. Just say "Hey Siri, tell John I'm running 10 minutes late."

Music and Podcasts

Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and most other audio apps work through CarPlay. Your music appears on the Cruze's screen, and you can control playback using steering wheel controls or the touchscreen.

You can browse playlists on the bigger screen instead of fumbling with your phone.

Other Apps

CarPlay supports various third-party apps that developers have optimized for in-car use. This includes audiobook apps like Audible, messaging apps like WhatsApp, and other navigation options.

The interface is simplified compared to your phone. Everything has larger touch targets and simplified menus, making it safer to use while driving.

Troubleshooting Common Chevy Cruze CarPlay Problems

Even though CarPlay is generally reliable, connection issues do happen. Here's how to fix the most common problems.

CarPlay Won't Connect At All

Start with the basics:

1. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay
2. Make sure CarPlay is turned on and your Cruze appears in the list
3. Check that "Allow CarPlay While Locked" is turned on
4. On your Cruze's MyLink screen, go into settings and look for smartphone connection or Apple CarPlay settings
5. Make sure it's activated there too

Check Your Cable

Cable problems cause a ton of CarPlay issues.

1. Inspect your cable for any damage – look for fraying near the connectors, cuts in the cable, or bent pins
2. Try a different cable if you have one
3. Make sure it's a real Apple cable or a certified third-party cable (cheap gas station cables often only charge and can't transfer data)

Some owners report cables failing after just a few weeks of regular use. If your cable looks fine but CarPlay still won't work, try borrowing a friend's cable or buying a new Apple-certified one to test.

Try Different USB Ports

Your Cruze might have multiple USB ports. Some ports are data ports that support CarPlay, while others are charge-only ports.

1. Try each USB port in your car to see if one works better than the others
2. Check your owner's manual to confirm which ports support data transfer

Restart Your iPhone and Car

This simple step fixes many glitches.

For iPhone X and newer:

1. Press and hold either volume button and the side button until you see the power slider
2. Slide to turn off
3. Wait 30 seconds
4. Press and hold the side button to restart

For older iPhones with a home button, hold the top or side button until you see the slider.

For your Cruze:

1. Turn off the car completely
2. Open the driver's door and close it
3. Wait until the OnStar LED on your rearview mirror turns off
4. Restart the car

Delete and Re-pair Your Phone

Sometimes the connection data gets corrupted and needs a fresh start.

1. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay
2. Find your Cruze under "My Cars" and tap "Forget This Car"
3. In your Cruze's settings, find the phone pairing section and delete your iPhone from the list
4. Go to your iPhone's Bluetooth settings, find your Cruze, and tap "Forget This Device"
5. Restart both your phone and car
6. Try connecting from scratch like it's the first time

Grayed Out CarPlay Icon

If you see the CarPlay icon on your Cruze's screen but it's grayed out and won't tap, this usually means a connectivity issue.

1. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on for your iPhone (go to Settings and check that Bluetooth is enabled)
2. Confirm WiFi is turned on in your iPhone settings, even if you're using wired CarPlay
3. Check for software updates on both your iPhone and your car's infotainment system

iPhone 15 Connection Problems

Newer iPhone 15 and 16 models use USB-C instead of Lightning connectors. If your Cruze has USB-A ports (the older rectangular ones), you'll need a USB-C to USB-A cable or adapter.

Make sure you get a quality adapter. Some cheap adapters don't work reliably for CarPlay even though they charge fine.

Some owners struggled with iPhone 15 connections until they bought an Apple-certified adapter cable.

iOS 18 Compatibility Issues

Some Cruze owners report that iOS 18 caused CarPlay problems in their vehicles. Connection drops, freezing, and failures to reconnect are the main complaints.

If you updated to iOS 18 and CarPlay stopped working reliably, check with your Chevy dealer about infotainment system updates. Sometimes the car needs a software update to work with new iOS versions.

As a temporary fix, some people have success switching to wired CarPlay if they were using wireless, or trying the delete and re-pair process above.

USB Restricted Mode

This security feature can block CarPlay if your iPhone has been locked for more than an hour.

1. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode)
2. Scroll down and turn on the "USB Accessories" option

This allows CarPlay to work even when your phone has been locked for a while.

Adding Apple CarPlay to Older Chevy Cruze Models

If you have a 2015 or older Cruze, you'll need an aftermarket solution to get Apple CarPlay.

Aftermarket Head Unit Replacement

The most complete option is replacing your factory radio with an aftermarket head unit that supports CarPlay.

Brands like Alpine, Kenwood, Sony, and Pioneer make double-DIN units that fit the Cruze and include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These typically range from $300 to $800 depending on screen size and features.

Screen sizes usually range from 6.5 inches up to 10 inches. The bigger screens are easier to see and use while driving, but they cost more.

Installation requires removing your factory radio and connecting wiring harnesses. Many units come with adapters that preserve your steering wheel controls, which is important for safe operation.

You can install these yourself if you're comfortable with car electronics. There are plenty of YouTube videos showing the process for the Cruze. Otherwise, professional installation at a car audio shop typically costs $100 to $200.

The upside of aftermarket units is you get modern features like larger touchscreens, better sound quality, and sometimes additional features like dashcam integration or enhanced navigation.

Universal Head Units

We offer universal single-DIN and double-DIN head units that work with most vehicles including older Cruze models.

These units come in various screen sizes from 10.1 inches up to 15.1 inches. They include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Android apps like Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube for when you're parked.

The units feature powerful processors with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, making them responsive and capable. They maintain compatibility with your steering wheel controls when installed with the proper harness adapters.

Installation is similar to other aftermarket radios, requiring removal of your factory unit and connection of the new wiring.

Wireless CarPlay Adapters

These small devices plug into a USB port and convert wired CarPlay to wireless, but they only work if you already have factory wired CarPlay.

Since pre-2016 Cruze models don't have any CarPlay support, wireless adapters won't help. You'd need a full head unit replacement first.

However, if you have a 2016 or newer Cruze with wired CarPlay and want to upgrade to wireless, adapters from brands like CarlinKit or MMB can work. They typically cost $40 to $100 and just plug into your USB port.

Things to Know About GM and Apple CarPlay's Future

General Motors made some announcements in 2025 that affect the long-term outlook for CarPlay, though they don't impact current Cruze owners.

GM announced they're phasing out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from all new vehicles starting with the 2028 model year. They're replacing it with their own built-in system powered by Google.

This doesn't affect any existing Cruze models. The Cruze was discontinued in 2019, so there won't be any new Cruze models to worry about.

If you own a 2016-2019 Cruze with CarPlay, it will continue working exactly as it does now for as long as you own the vehicle. This is about new cars GM will build in 2028 and beyond, not vehicles already on the road.

The decision has been controversial. According to research, nearly half of car buyers say they wouldn't consider a vehicle without Apple CarPlay. Many owners prefer the familiar interface and regular updates that come with smartphone integration rather than built-in systems that can become outdated.

For Cruze owners, this is mainly just industry news. Your CarPlay will keep working just fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Chevy Cruze have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, all Chevrolet Cruze models from 2016 through 2019 come with Apple CarPlay as standard equipment. The 2016 Cruze Limited may not have it depending on which infotainment system it has. Any Cruze from 2015 or earlier does not have factory Apple CarPlay and requires an aftermarket head unit upgrade to add it.

How do I activate Apple CarPlay in my Chevy Cruze?

Connect your iPhone to a USB port in your Cruze using a data-capable cable, then tap "Allow" when prompted on both your car's screen and your iPhone. The CarPlay interface should launch automatically. If it doesn't, tap the Apple CarPlay or Projection icon on your MyLink home screen to start it manually.

Why won't my Chevy Cruze connect to Apple CarPlay?

The most common causes are faulty USB cables, disabled CarPlay settings, or software compatibility issues. Try using a different Apple-certified cable, check that CarPlay is enabled in your iPhone settings under General > CarPlay, and make sure "Allow CarPlay While Locked" is turned on. Restarting both your iPhone and car often fixes temporary glitches.

Can I add wireless Apple CarPlay to my Chevy Cruze?

Some 2018 and newer Cruze models support factory wireless CarPlay. For earlier models with wired CarPlay, you can add wireless capability using an adapter like CarlinKit that plugs into your USB port. For 2015 and older Cruzes without any factory CarPlay, you'll need to install an aftermarket head unit that supports wireless CarPlay.

What iPhone do I need for Apple CarPlay in a Chevy Cruze?

You need an iPhone 5 or newer. For best compatibility with 2016-2019 Cruze models, keep your iPhone updated to the latest iOS version. Some newer Chevy vehicles require iOS 14 or later, though this requirement applies across most CarPlay-equipped vehicles regardless of age.

Does the Chevy Cruze have Android Auto too?

Yes, all 2016-2019 Cruze models support both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through the same MyLink system. You can use one or the other depending on which phone you connect, but not both simultaneously. The setup process for Android Auto is similar to CarPlay.

Will my steering wheel controls work with Apple CarPlay?

Yes, your Cruze's steering wheel controls continue to work when using Apple CarPlay. You can use the volume buttons, track skip buttons, and voice command button on your steering wheel to control CarPlay functions without touching your phone or the touchscreen.

Can I use Apple CarPlay while my phone is locked?

Yes, but you need to enable "Allow CarPlay While Locked" in your iPhone settings. Go to Settings > General > CarPlay, select your vehicle, and turn on this option. This lets CarPlay function even when your iPhone's screen is off and locked, which is the normal way to use it while driving.