Apple iOS 8.1 4 iPhone 5-6+ could fix Bluetooth issue with hands-free devices/cars

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iOS81buetoothfixiOS 8 has been plagued with Bluetooth bugs connecting to in-car infotainment systems.The manifest of features for iOS update shows a Bluetooth fix which hopefully will help our readers who have tried everything from complaining to Apple to “nuking” their phones to get Bluetooth work. Almost every car maker was affected including BMW, Audi, GM(Chevy, GMC, Cadillac, Buick), Mercedes-Benz, VW, Mazda, Lexus, Fiat, Hyundai and more.

iOS 8.1, build  12B411 for iPhones, is available  through an over-the-air(OTA) upload and through iTunes. It brings Apple Pay support for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus (U.S. only). In the “connection fixes” area of the list of features of the update it states “Fixes an issue that could prevent connections to Bluetooth hands-free devices.” A car infotainment system is a hand-free device, therefore it “could” help.

We find the wording of “could prevent connections” to be one devised to not admit guilt.  However, in the court of public opinion from our readers, Apple is guilty of the whole Bluetooth connectivity snafu with in-car infotainment systems. If you have updated to iOS 8.1, 8.1.1 or  8.1.2 and it fixed or fried your Bluetooth issues with your in-car infotainment system, please let us know in the comments below, be sure to note your make, model and year of your vehicle.

Update 12/27/2014:You can show your dislike for the Apple iOS 8/iPhone 6/6+ Bluetooth debacle by voting for Apple as the winner of the Tech CARS Edsel Yugo Award for the biggest Car Tech Snafu in 2014. Invite your friends, mechanics and colleagues to vote, too. We don’t expect any new information over the holidays, but we will continue to seek remedies at the International CES 2015.

Update 12/10/2014:Reports from reader comments indicate that the update to iOS 8.1.2 has helped with some Bluetooth issues. We have also discovered that iCloud settings could be interfering with Bluetooth connections. However, people are still commenting that some forms of the “Nuke-it” fixes are working.

Update 10/28/2014:Reports from reader comments indicate that only some Bluetooth vehicle connection issues have been helped by iOS 8.1. We have comments that indicate Bluetooth connection problems with 2011, 2013 and even 2014 model vehicles. Read a summary of Bluetooth issues and fixes along with the new “audio-only” connection fix.

Apple stated that many changes in iOS 8.1  were made from user feedback.

Other fixes in the update are:

Resolves issues with Wi-Fi performance that could occur when connected to some base stations.
Fixes bugs that could cause screen rotation to stop working.
Fixes an issue in Safari where videos would sometimes not play.
Adds an option to select between 2G, 3G, or LTE networks for cellular data .
Fixes an issue in Safari where videos would sometimes not play
Adds AirDrop support for Passbook passes
Adds an option to enable Dictation in Settings for Keyboards, Separate from Siri
Enables HealthKit apps to access data in the background

Accessibility improvements and fixes:
Fixes an issue that prevented Guided Access from working properly .
Fixes a bug where VoiceOver would not work with 3rd party keyboards.
Improves stability and audio quality when using MFi Hearing Aids with iPhone 6 and 6 Plus.
Fixes an issue with VoiceOver where tone dialing would get stuck on tone until dialing another number.
Improves reliability when using handwriting, Bluetooth keyboards, and Braille displays with VoiceOver.
Photos include new features, improvements, and fixes :
Adds iCloud Photo Library as a beta service.
Adds Camera Roll album in Photos app and My Photo Stream album when iCloud Photo Library is not enabled .
Provides alerts when running low on space before capturing Time Lapse videos.

Messages includes new features, improvements and fixes:
Adds the ability for iPhone users to send and receive SMS and MMS text messages on from their iPad and Mac.
Resolves an issue where search would sometimes not display results.
Fixes a bug that caused read messages not to be marked as read.
-Fixes issues with group messaging.

Fixes an issue that was preventing the use of OS X Caching Server for iOS updates

268 thoughts on “Apple iOS 8.1 4 iPhone 5-6+ could fix Bluetooth issue with hands-free devices/cars”

  4. 2010 Lexus LS 460 with Mark Levinson sound system. iPhone 4 worked awesome.
    Just upgraded wife to new 6+, phone paired and connected easy enough but won’t stream music? Have deleted the phone and re connected twice now, still won’t stream.
    Now installing newest update, 8.1.3 to the phone and will try that. I’m guessing my 850 dollar phone is okay and the problem is my 80,000 dollar car.

    • Finished the update, rebooted the device, forgot the BT car connection, deleted the phone from the system in the car, re connected the device, everything fine at this point, switched audio to BT and no connection again. Gave up and emailed Apple support. See what they have to say, I guess its time to upgrade the car?

  5. SUCCESS!! BMW 120i 2012 I just upgraded the iPhone 6 to OSX8.2 and it resolved the pairing issue (I did have to put a code into the terminal first not the handset). Seems okay to make and receive calls – didn’t try other commands

  7. Bought my 1014 Honda Civic brand new May 2014. At the time had. Son had a 5S. Both paired to HFL just fine.. Phone book loaded etc., Bluetooth working . Made calls out- caller ID on HFL screen showed name of person calling, but that same person (who is IN MY PHONEBOOK) calls me … The caller ID does not work- name . Have the iPhone 6 now same thing. Beyond frustrated especially when I’ve been getting the runaround from the dealership for 11 months. Anyone experience this issue or have knoweledge ? I KNOW it should work!!!!

  9. I have a 2012 Forester that looses pairing with 5s iPhone every time you shut off ignition then you have to manually reconnect the next time you want to hear iPhone over radio. I have os8.2 software on phone.

  10. Had problems with Siri voice dialing over my Lexus IS 350 handsfree system once I updated to 8.0.2. Complained multiple times to Lexus and Apple because IOS7 with 2004 Lexus worked perfectly, loaner 2015 Lexus with IOS 8 worked fine. It was just older Lexus newer IOS. Today IOS 8.2 was released and it fixed the problem Hooray! I can voice dial via Siri again!

  11. I own a Lexus RX 350 can’t get Bluetooth to connect. I was going to my Lexus dealer tomorrow, but not after reading these articles. Apple needs to get on the stick PRONTO!

  12. My Honda Civic (Mitsubishi radio is used by Honda) 2014 hatch, works perfectly except it insists on playing music once paired. The music app is not open by if you open it and pause the music it begins again, especially if another app is running which can use audio

  13. Updated iphone 4 as was advised to do, Hyundai ix35 Trophy,
    Dealership also tried many times to pair my phone to the Bluetooth but still won’t connect.
    This is very annoying and trying to run a Company on the go isn’t helping.
    One day it’s working then later the same day got back into car and no connections. This is so disruptive I wonder if it’s a ploy to make us all buy new phones.

  14. I have IPhone 5 with version 8.1.3. It will pair with my 2014 Outback, but I have lost my contacts (phonebook). Not very convenient to “dial by number” every time. It was there before . Ideas anyone?

  16. I,ve got a Iphone 5 with IOS 8.1.3 and a 2014 Pajero incoming calls works fine over handsfree set. Outgoing calls default to Iphone instead of Handsfree set. Very frustrating. Any suggestions???
    Johan

  17. Have 8.1.3 running on my 2015 Lexus RX450h and calls come thru great but once sync’ed, I get no notification sounds! It’s like the phone switches to silent without me toggling the switch on the phone. I have missed messages and typically only find out when I am out of the car. Very frustrating.

  19. I am running iOS 8.3 on my Verizon iPhone 6. I cannot pair with my 2014 Honda CRV. My iPhone 4s worked fine. This is a terrible problem and needs to be addressed IMMEDIATELY. In my opinion this is giving Apple a very bad PR problem Just look as the number of problems listed here.

  20. Wow!! This is big!!! So many people with problems!!
    I’m running iOS 8.1.3 on my AT&T iPhone 6+
    Cannot pair with my 2014 Honda Accord!!!!
    Phone tells me that I shoud turn off: “handsfree”
    Whatever that means!!!
    Apple should address this NOW!!!

  21. Wow!! This is big!!! So many people with problems!!
    I’m running iOS 8.1.3 on my AT&T iPhone 6+
    Cannot pair with my 2014 Honda Accord!!!!
    Apple should address this NOW!!!

  22. Iphone 6plus on iOS8.1.3 and connecting to an alpine INE-W940EAU head unit and all bluetooth streamed music stutters, Spotify and apple, makes no difference, Phone works fine. Devices work fine in the factory set up in an Audi RSQ3 2014 but not in the Ford Ranger with the Alpine….real pain

  23. Just upgraded to iPhone 6 from iPhone 5. New phone does not pair Bluetooth w/my VW Tiguan 2010. Very UPSET !! Does anyone have any advice how to do this or fix this problem?

  26. New 2015 outback so still learning but iPhone 5 8.1.2 seems to pair for telephone use ( uploads contacts, makes calls, receives calls) but will not setup for messaging SMS/MMS. Says my Bluetooth needs to be “connected properly” whatever that means. Apple needs to prioritize this fix. Son’s android with his 2015 outback works fine. I will never here the end of it either.

  27. Jeep Grand Cherokee 2012, iPhone 6, 8.1.2, Bose headset bluetooth S2 randomly disconnected from car, sound and also calls. Frecuently reconnects also randomly from last two.

  28. 2014 VW Passat TDI…sometimes I can connect and other times no. I hate this problem for long distance trips

  29. IPhone 5 8.1 my phone Bluetooth doesn’t detect my car BMW 2006 X3, I tried all possibility it still doesn’t detect my car hand free device of the car. It used to connect before I updated my ios.

  30. I have a 2013 ATS, my IPhone 4 stopped working 2 days ago, I discovered it was calling my own cell phone number, I deled it from the CUE system and now the phone will not pair. I have IOS 8.1.2. Who can I call to get this fixed?

  31. I believe the Bluetooth issue goes beyond the link to cars. I have a Nuvi GPS and a hands-free device (forget the mfgr), and my old iPhone 5 did, and still does, see these devices. However, my new iPhone 6 Plus does not see them. In fact, it doesn’t see any Bluetooth devices anyway. I’ll probably end up taking it to an Apple store, but this is really ridiculous.

  33. I posted just a bit earlier that my iPhone 5 with IOS 8.1.2 would not stream music on my new 2015 Honda Accord EXL. That was with Bluetooth paired to car. I just went out to see if I could stream music via USB. I couldn’t but then noticed the volume on my phone was all the way down. Sheesh! I never mess with volume, but evidently after IOS update the volume to Bluetooth goes way down.

    Maybe others have a similar problem.

  34. I have Acura 2013, always was using Andriod until I switched to iphone 6plus and problems appear, if I making a dial from the phone I wont get a ringing tone until the other party I’m calling answer the phone or goes to voice mail BUT if I’m calling from the car phone book it has no problem and ringing right away, I though could be device problem so I changed the device but same problem. Do you have any information on that?

    As well my second car is Mercedes ML 2014, When I was using Andriod I had the option getting the received SMS on the car screen and I was able to read it as well but after switched to Iphone 6plus this option is disappeared which you still can see the icon for SMS but its blurry which you cant click on it, do you have any information on that too?

    • I have same problem with my 2013 Pajero! Incoming calls is fine just dialling out from iPhone it won’t connect to hands free until someone picks up or it goes to MessageBank

  35. Spotty connection a real deal breaker for me. Mazda 3 2013 worked fine before the update to 8 on a iPhone 5. Updated to iPhone 6 and problem is even worse, both cases calls take forever to connect to calls, dropping the bluetooth selection upon connection. Reselecting connects but then in the middle of conversation, sporadically the radio interrupts conversation, then caller, then radio then caller and so on.

  36. 2014 Mazda 6, voice over the car works fine even playing music over bluetooth works fine. But when I plug it in via USB (it lets me scroll through all songs, see song names, etc) it wont work, “iPod error”. Worked fine with iOS 7.

  37. Subaru Impreza 2012, latest iOS update for iPhone 6 – still has not fixed auto-sync issue. Have to go through it manually.

  38. I have an 2014 Acura RLX and iPhone 5S. Since upgrading to IOS 8 it won’t download the phonebook. I tried unsyncing and resyncing, but no luck.

  39. I have a 2010 Mazda 3 same issues as all the others, plays music via blutooth but no voice calls since ios8 or any of its subsequent ‘upgrades’. Totally hacked off with Apple and their refusal to accept that there is a problem. Bye bye Apple….

  40. I have a 2012 Subaru Outback and if Bluetooth is enabled on my phone, I can’t get any stereo options other than Bluetooth. In other words, I cannot access any AM or FM stations. So I have to turn off the Bluetooth option. Which is ok unless I have an incoming call. Thanks Apple.

  41. My husband and I just updated to IOS 8.1.2 for our iPhone 5’s, and Google Maps voice direction no longer works through the Bluetooth in our 2012 Fiat 500. Very frustrated and disappointed, as we need that voice direction right now after having moved to DC and we don’t know our way around…

  42. I have a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport with the Fuse Hands-Free Link System and when I updated my Iphone 5 with IOS 8 it still worked though I did have some unexplained Bluetooth disconnects. When I updated beyond the initial IOS 8 my Bluetooth was officially killed. I’ve been in touch with Mitsubishi and they say they are working on it. So disappointed.

  43. I have an iphone 5S and a 2011 Honda CRV. The bluetooth will connect through my contacts but not through the music. Both used to work until I upgraded to 8.1.2.

  44. I have a 4s and my voice command in my GMC 2013 Acadia stopped working. I reset my phone to factory settings and it worked. I restored my phone though iCloud and ITunes and it no longer works. If I leave my phone at factory restore it will work but once I upload my profile from the above it stops working. We thought it was my phone, so off to Sprint and bought the iPhone 6 and guess what, same exact issue. I brought my 4s to Apple and they found a few bugs on my iCloud profile which shouldn’t be there being that I just reset my phone to factory settings. I find this very interesting!!!!!!!!!!!!! So I either have to have my phone blank or use Siri to call anyone in my car.

    • Your observations are making it seem more like a problem with the iCloud and profile functions. We may be getting closer to the actual cause.

  46. I avoided updating to ios8, because of all the horror stories, until just recently (I own a 4S). I even went so far as to call Apple, regarding the potential issues with 8. After reassurance, I went ahead and downloaded 8. To my dismay, I no longer have the ability to use the Bluetooth in my 2015 Taco. To make matters worse, despite unchecking Auto download on I tunes and my phone, my backup updated to the new ios, so I am now stuck with a phone that no longer connects to my hands-free system. the current version I have is 8.1.2.

  49. Two cars have become unable to use Bluetooth reliably since the ios8 update. My 2012 Acura tl drops calls for 10 seconds at a time then resumes as if nothing happened. Once per call. My wife’s 2014 Subaru Forester will pair but not auto pair after the ignition has been cut off. Re-pair is necessary after each car-start.

    • I’m having the exact same issue with my iPhone 6, iOs 8.1.2, and my 2013 Acura TL. During a call, it will “drop” multiple time then resume again. Extremely frustrating! My iPhone 5 worked just fine.

  50. Since updating my iPhone 5s with iOS 8.1.2 not only can’t I get my phone connected to my 2010 Mercedes GLK but my Siri seems to have a glitch, also!

  51. I have a 2013 Honda SI. I have had the new IPhone 6 Plus for two days.
    Before that, I had the iPhone 5. Never had any trouble with the 5.

    Got in my car today and my blue tooth icon is gone!!!! Googled and now I
    Realize it is an Apple issue. Unbelievable!!!!!
    I was so excited about the phone, now I will be returning it!!! I do not want to go back to the five, so they lost me as a customer!

  52. 2014 Ford Fusion. Hands free phone still works, but no Bluetooth media streaming since I installed IOS8.1.2, really sux.

  54. updated iphone5 to IOS 8.1 in my Volvo XC70. Worked perfectly before but now will not recognise each other at all. Very frustrating

  56. bmw 530 2005 , car see the phone , phone see the car, when coming to pair , nothing hapenning, i had iphone 5 before whitout latest update, all was fine , now is garbage!!!.
    apple… hurry up with solution!!!!!!

  57. I have a Honda CRV 2012. I can connect but when I either make or receive a call it is dropped constantly. Had problem only occasionally prior to this update. My current update is 8.1.2

  58. New BMW 4 series. Uploaded to 8.1.2 and wouldn’t reconize I tunes music. Now only a few days ago phone dosent work at all so was advised to de pair and then pair again. Now the Bluetooth won’t reconize the I phone 5s and can’t phone out or recieve calls. A complete joke !!!!!!!!!! 44k worth of car and 3 months old.

  59. I have a 2007 Acura TL base and can not pair my iPhone 5c as the Acura HFL link is searching for the bluetooth. Phone is in discoverable mode. Phone has latest iOS8 update.

  60. Updated my iPhone plus 6 to iOS 8.1.2. Since then my Bluetooth sound is too low on my Nissan Juke year 2011. Cannot hear Siri at all and my wireless phone via Bluetooth doesn’t work anymore.

  61. I have a 2008 Lexus LS460. I updated to IOS 8.1.2. My Bluetooth connects fine but when I send or receive calls there is still no sound coming through the system and the car microphone doesn’t work either. What a drag.

  62. I have a 2008 Toyota camry. Siri/Bluetooth worked fine on iphone 5 before new OS 8. I have been in touch with engineering department for months – still no fix. Not sure if I will purchase iphone again if they can’t seem to fix this. There are enough complaints. Fix seems easy enough – backward compatible.

  66. I updated to iOS 8.1,2 and am still having issues pairing my iPhone 5 to my 2998 Mazda. It was working find before I updated to IOS 8.1

  67. iPhone 5S with IOS8.1.2 and have a Mitsubishi Pajero 2014. I can play my music through phone and can receive calls through the car no problem but if I make a call by using my phone it goes to the phone speaker and not through the car speaker. Very annoying!!!

  68. Does noes not work, has not been fixed in my wife’s 2014 Volkswagen tiguan with rns-315 Fender media system. Wife has an older iPhone 4s with iOS 8.1 update.

  69. iPhone 5s and Audi A3 2014. Sporadic disconnections since IOS 8 was released. Getting really tired and I don’t think Apple has handled this in a good way not listening to customers and blaming car dealers.

  72. My iPhone 6 worked fine when I first got it in my 2006 Acura TL, but after the 8.1 update it no longer works! I have called Apple Support and they had no clue what to do!
    I do a lot of long distance driving and I need to get my bluetooth system back and working properly!

  73. I have an iPhone 6 running iOS 8.1.1 and a 2013 Subaru Forester. I used to just climb into my car and everything would connect up as normal. Now, it will connect and all of my calls and text messages come through, but when I go to play my iTunes even though the output is set to Car Multimedia I have to push the Bluetooth button on my stereo in order for the music to play through my car instead of it just switching on its own.

  74. My iPhone 5s worked fine with our 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan until I updated to the new IOS! Wish I didn’t do that. Also having troubles with my 2014 Nissan Sentra.

  75. My iPhone 6 does not connect with my 2012 Ford Focus. It will only sync music and reads it like an iPod. Any solution?

  78. IOS 8.1 still not corrected my Bluetooth with my Hyundai 2014 Sonata nor my Jam speakers. What gives for correction time? Getting tired.

  79. 2012 Mitsubishi Oultander – BT connects and works with Music Stream etc. Though, when making outgoing calls it loses its connection while dialing a number. Can be overwritten if manually re-select car kit.
    Worked seamlessly before update. Ridiculous update, surprised in the large range of BT systems effected.

  80. I have iphone 5s with a skoda octavia 1.8 TSI 2015 and everything works great, only thing is that i dont get pictures of contacts on my navi screen..

  81. I have a 2012 Hyundai Sonata and my Bluetooth worked fine with my IPhone 4. I just got an iPhone 6 and my Bluetooth doesn’t work at all now! What kind of junk is this?? So frustrating!

  84. I agree with a lot of those comments above. I have a Lexus GX 460 2013 and the blue tooth works for the phone but not playing music in the 2015 models it works on both. I had a rental Lexus Rx 350 2015 and had no problems using Bluetooth for phone and music. Just hit the axillary button when your phone is plugged in the USB port and it will charge and play your music. Thats the best fix for now.

  89. I HAVE UPDATED TO iOS 8.1.1 ON MY IPHONE 5S AND HAVE A 2015 AUDI A3 CAB, THE VOICE COMMAND OR MESSAGE FEATURE HAS NEVER WORKED ON MY CAR. I HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH APPLE AND AUDI TO TRY TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE FOR ABOUT 3 WEEKS, STILL NO RESOLUTION.

  90. I got iPhone 6 last week and I have a big problem set it to my Bluetooth. I have lexues and with my iPhone 4 I had no problem. As AT&T suggested I updated my phone to iOS 8.1 ,but it did not solve my problem. This is a very important issue for me…

  92. I am beyond frustrated; my 2014 Mazda 6 will not connect to my iPhone 6 – the bluetooth function on the phone doesn’t even pick up a “device” to sync with.

  95. updating my iphone 4s to os 8.1 first of all resulted in the “plug in to iTunes” screen of death, which took hours to rectify. AND, it won’t pair/sync with my Bluetooth in my 2013 Hyundai Sonata GLS. (mad face). I’m reluctant to update to the recent OS update (8.1.1) for fear of the “plug in to iTunes” issue, but I REALLY miss my Bluetooth. Epic fail on apple’s part.

  96. I have the iPhone 6 and cannot connect my Bluetooth in my 2012 GMC Acadia but can in my husbands 2013 BMW. Frustrating. I have done the most recent update.

  97. 2013 Subaru Outback – Updated to 8.1.1….will connect to bluetooth and works correctly, but will not reconnect after the inginition is turned off. Same as before.

  98. Mazda 3 Sport 2010 – Phone 5S ME438B.

    Just updated to iOS 8.1.1 but STILL got bluetooth issues – even after deleting the pairing on phone & car / resetting network settings / re-pairing!!!

    As before, my phone won’t auto-switch audio source when calls connect. Manually switching is dangerous when driving, but I have little choice.

    I pay a price differential for Apple products as they are (supposed to be) the best, and just work.

    I can’t put into words how I feel right now…

    • same problem here: updated to 811 ; phone autoswitches to its own speaker during dialing the number instead of remaining on bluetooth

  99. Older iPhone 4s and 4 worked perfectly with Mercedes GL 2009 and GLK 2012.
    iPhone 6 and iOS 8 can’t paired even with the older phones removed.

  101. 2013 Kia Optima. I was able to connect but had to go through the entire set up process every time I got in the car. The last time I tried, it wouldn’t even connect. I have IOS 8.1

  102. BMW 530 xd year 2012, blue tooth pairing no longer works with IPhone 4S IOS 8.1 (12B411). Answer from Apple local support: get your BMW service center to upgrade the vehicle software!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Outrageous

  103. I have an iPhone 6 plus and a 2007 Mercedes S600 with bluetooth adapter in center console.
    Cannot pair the new phone…screen message says No Phone insert or connection failed

  104. I have a 2009 Ford Escape with Sync. My Iphone 5 was replaced by ATT due to battery issues. It was shipped with OS 8.1. It will try to pair and when the code is entered it says invalid.
    All older phones were deleted from the system and still the same issue.
    Frustrating since the dealer has no clue.

  106. 2011 Toyota Camry and iPhone 5c. I can connect music through Bluetooth to my car but I can not make or receive calls like I could with my 4s. Pissed off!

    • I agree., Amber, me too! I lost ALL Bluetooth connectivity when “upgrading’ my 4s to OS 8.1 I can’t make or receive phone calls, listen to iTunes from my phone or anything. it is really frustrating and a RIP OFF. At least apple should allow an uninstall of an upgrade!!!

  107. I have a 2011 lexus LS 460 , my I phone 6+ audio Bluetooth connect does not work , I have updated my phone software to 8.1 , and it still does not work .

  109. My iPhone 5S automatically updated to IOS 8.1, iphone 6 plus with IOS 8.1 and none work well on my BMW 128i. BMW promised a update by end of October, but that never happened. The web site where you normally download updates hasnt worked for over a month. When you enter your vin number, you get a message “Invalid Vin”. BMW doesn’t seem to be keeping up with changes. I don’t understand why these car manufactures are not on the Apple beta test program along with other developers.

    Distracted Driving Laws:
    Many states have issued laws prohibiting use of phones while in motion , which I feel is a good idea, however, the law should’ve started by mandating technology safety features are installed in vehicles first. If you travel for business, rental cars a re a very good example of vehicles lacking technology safety features. I feel the law was implemented in the wrong order , penalizing users instead of mandating auto manufactures provide hands-free features that work. I parked my BMW until BMW gets their act together. I was about to buy a new model and decided to wait until the technology works. There is no use in wasting any more money buying new vehicles until these feature work and there is a focus to insure continued operation. In my opinion, there is absolutely no excuse for these technology issues with new vehicles.

    Technology and Auto Indus
    The technology manufactures and the auto manufactures should work together to insure the software is function before forcing automatic updates or releasing products to market that do not work. This should be a national safety mandate. In the US, employers expect us to be available. Of course they all include a policy to protect them form lawsuits, but there is an expectation that employees are available when traveling for business purposes.

    I’ve read all the comments about pulling over and taking 10 hours to make a 3 hour drive. The technology simply needs to work. There is not enough battery life in a hands-free earpiece when you are on calls all day long.

    So one needs to ask why is that auto manufactures are not treating expensive technology packages the same as other safety features? I’m wondering if these features are worth the additional cost.

    I expect more from BMW. It sounds like other manufactures are having similar issues. So, why is our government asleep and not dealing with this issue instead of inflicting stupid fines for touching a phone to unlock and get the hand-free device to place your next call.

    Lawmakers only care about collecting more revenue and try to convince us its about safety. I don’t buy it. If it’s about safety then penalize the tech industry and auto manufactures when the technology doesn’t work. We live in a tech age, there is no excuse for these issues.

  110. I updated an iPhone 5s still won’t auto connect to 2012 Subaru this is a big deal to me and I am sorry I switched iPhone.

  111. 2011 Chevy Malibu with JVC KW-R910BT installed – will no longer auto-answer call nor automatically send sounds via bluetooth audio.

  112. I have a 2015 Chev Equinox and the hands free will not stay connected. My phone is updated to IOS 8.1

  113. I have a 2007 Toyota Camry. I noticed that after my upgrade to iOS 8.0 on my iPhone 4S when I would tell Siri to call someone it would repeat what I asked, would start to call and disconnect before it went through. I just got an iPhone 6 plus and have the same problem. I hope they can fix this soon as in California your not allowed to mess with phone when driving

  114. I have a 2010 VW CC. My bluetooth work fine while i still had my iPhone 4s. I upgraded to the iPhone 6 and iOS 8.1 and still cannot connect to bluetooth. This is killing my driving experience, safety and convenience!

  115. With the update to IOS 8.1 my iPhone 6 could not made a connection with my car kid anymore. With iOS 8.0 I had no problems!
    VW Touran 2.0 TDI, august 2014

  117. I have a 2014 Honda accord and the and text messages don’t alert through my car as they should. Please fix ASAP. Also takes a while for Bluetooth in my car to find my iPhone 6.

  118. I have the new iPhone6 with iOS 8.1 and a 2012 Toyota Camry. The bluetooth does not work. I previously had an iphone with the updated iOS 8.1 and the bluetooth worked just fine before i purchased the iphone6

  119. I have an iPhone 6 Plus with iOS 8.1, and a BMW 320i october 2013: the bluetooth still does not work, while before -iPhone 5 with previous Ios – it worked perfectly. iOS 8.1 did not fix the issue.

    • Remove the iphone from your device list on your car, and forget your BMW handsfree from your phone. Then switch the bluetooth off then on on your phone. it should now recognise your car. If not you might have to reset your phone back to factory settings first, then follow the above steps

  120. I have a new 2014 Honda CR-V and Iphone 5. Ever since update my phonebook does not load, and dialing is disabled.

  121. I bought the iphone 6 last month and it paired with my BMW handsfree. I then updated to IOS 8.1 llast week and my phone wouldnt recognise my car. I phoned Apple and they suggested that I try and connect to another bluetooth device, I paired it to my wifes VW handsfree device and it connected. I then wiped my phone and then reinstalled it, but my BMW still wouldnt recognise my phone. I then removed my cars handsfree from my iphone (forget this device) and also i removed my iphone from my list of bluetooth devices in my car. I then turned my bluetooth off on my phone and then switched it back on again, then after a few seconds my BMW Handsfree appeared on my phone, and when I hit connect it paired to car.

  122. 2014 Subie, STI, have to manually pair my iPhone 6 every time I start her up…. Pretty inconvenient Apple….

  127. I have a 2015 Mazda 6 and the iPhone 6 and my bluetooth works fine. Since updating my iPod Touch 5th gen I have been getting iPod error messages when it is plugged into the USB port. Because I use my iPod for music only, I rolled it back to when it worked. Hopefully Apple fixes this issue soon.

  129. Lexus 350 2014 my SMS, Whatsapp notification sound plus YouTube and lock sounds are not heard when my iPhone 6 is paired with my car. I also noticed the same sound notification problems when the Bluetooth is turned on at home and at work. I’m on my THIRD iphone 6 within 3 weeks because I thought something is wrong with the hard wear. I’ve don’t all the proper troubleshooting numerous times with the help of personals at the Apple head quarter and Apple Store in Ontario. NOTHING helped.

  130. Just gave up my Samsung Galaxy S4 and went with the iPhone 6, would not connect via bluetooth, downloaded Yosemite 8.1 upgrade this morning, will not connect to 2013 Avalanche, can’t believe Apple is this inept, maybe Tim Cook should spend more time with R&D rather than his own bio promotion. I’m now going to sell all my Apple stock. This is bad news for them, hands free devices in California Tim, did anyone tell you??

  131. 2012 Mazda CX-7, iPHONE 5, worked with iOS7, after installing to iOS8, outgoing calls falls back to handset, can be switched over to cars BT manually only AFTER my call is actually answered. Very frustrating, distracting attention from traffic. Tried all tricks, no help. iOS 8.1 brought no improvement at all. The fact that it worked before and it does not work now is TERRIBLE. Considering to get all the people in our company SONY phones and to stop buying the rotten apple overpriced s…t products altogether.

  132. I have 2104 528i and just got an iPhone 6 with IOS 8 updated to 8.1. My phone says it is “up to date”. Phone and phone book work in car, but no email or text. I use the TuneIn radio app in the car (or did). With iOS 8 it won’t work. Every time I get in the car that @&$¥! U2 album auto plays and the album cover of the “boys in their underwear” pops up on my dash display.

    Very disappointed. Miss the email and text feature a lot and never cared about Bono and his ‘boys’, in fact somehow being forced to listen to them every time I start the car is downright annoying Plan to return the phone and return to Android. Can’t see waiting for Apple to get it fixed.

  133. My iphone with IOS 8.1 pairs with the high end navigation system of a 2015 Subaru Outback, but all attempts to get the SMS messaging emulation on the navigation screen have failed. There does not appear to be an issue with sending or receiving phone calls.

  134. Can’t make outgoing bluetooth calls after the IOS 8/8.1 updates. I drive a 2012 Mazda 6 GT V6. I can receive calls and my music connects via bluetooth, it’s just the outgoing calling feature that’s not working properly. Very frustrating!

  135. After updating to iOS 8 on my iPhone 5, I couldn’t Answer a phone call with Bluetooth in my 2013 Honda Civic EX (not with the upgraded NAV system). iOS 8.1 fixed that, but introduced a new Bluetooth problem. After the update, using Siri in the car also makes the phone start to dial the last number called. I’m simply not using Siri anymore in the car because of this, so iOS 8 is far less useful in the car than iOS 7. I’ve reported this on the Apple bug report site.

  138. 2014 GMC Acadia…worked fine with 4s before 8.0 update then stopped being able to call contacts by name, only number. Received new 6+ a couple of weeks ago, same. Updated to the FIX 8.1 but still has the same problem! Sadly, I don’t know everyone’s phone numbers which means I have to dial from the phone and then talk over car speaker…not safe. I am EXTREMELY unhappy and have an appointment with Apple, but sounds like there won’t be any resolve. Might be returning iPhone and going Samsung.

  139. Had the fist iOS 8 and had Bluetooth problems in my golf. After update it actually works fine. The only problem I had though was that it wouldn’t make calls. The connection was fine otherwise. All fine now though.

  140. 2014 Chevy Equinox with an iPhone 6. No problems with bluetooth prior to installing the IOS 8.1 but I certainly have connectivity issues now and I hope it is fixed promptly. Very frustrating 🙁

  141. Kia Optima ’12. Iphone 6 plus with iOS 8.1 will not discover car system at all. It does discover other bluetooth enable devices (headphones, jawbone, tec..) but not the car. Apple sucks

  143. 2011 Mazda 3 and iPhone 5s. installed iOS 8.1 and bluetooth connection to phone still does not work properly. I can receive a call; however, there is a lot of static and the call cuts in and out. Phone says connected but cannot make an outgoing call through the bluetooth connection and if I make a call with just the phone – it messes that up as well. Still a mess Apple. FIX IT PLEASE.

  144. Since the iOS upgrade my iPhone messaging capabilities ( message notification sound on phone and connection to Bluetooth so message is read to me) with my 2014 Lexus RX 350 no longer works

    • I have the same Lexus 350 2014. SMS, Whatsapp, facebook Messanger, YouTube Will shows the preview message on the phone screen, but they arrive with no sound. Lock sound does not work either. I tried all the troubleshooting, including getting new devises within 3 weeks ( I’m on my third iPhone 6!!!!). Not sure where to go from here. HELP

  147. I got a 2013 Honda CR-V LX. I updated my iPhone 6 to IOS 8.1 as well. I can pair my phone to my car via Bluetooth. I can make/receive calls, listen to music. But the text message function is completely down. It says on the car screen “this phone isn’t compatible with text message services”.

  149. I also have a Mazda 3 Sport 2010 – I’ve updated to iOS 8.1 (what a mistake). It was fine before I upgraded. Now the calls take forever to go thru and bluetooth switches from Mazda to iPhone and I have to keep switching it back. This is so annoying. Hopefully they can fix it. Wish I hadn’t upgraded as everything was fine before that.

  150. Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 2009 and 2012. IOS 8.1 did NOT fix Bluetooth issues. Can play music. Also can receive phone calls. Have to keep forcing connection on outgoing calls. It keeps reverting back to phone until someone answers on the other end, then it will connect from the force. (continually pushing mazda on phone). It all worked perfectly on both cars before this update. We both have iPhone 5’s.

    • Exactly the same issue on my 2012 CX-9 GT with NAV. Incoming calls no problem, outgoing calls revert to speaker until someone answers. Once the line is connected, a click of the bluetooth button works. Verrrrrryyyyyy frustrating.

  151. Acura RDX 2014. The iOS update did NOT fix the Bluetooth probkem. Bluetooth turns on and off randomly. Apple insists it’s an Acura problem. Acura claims it’s a phone problem.

  152. My Lexus (2010) RX350 works even worse than before the “upgrade”. I cannot access my contact list via voice prompt. I have to use the phone itself or just dial! When I ask via Bluetooth to call some contact the reply is: “lower temperature” $%#$#@#@

  153. 2013 Honda Fit with an iPhone 6. Bluetooth actually seemed fine with ios8.0 for me. Now that I updated to iOS 8.1, bluetooth will constantly disconnect and reconnect in the middle of phone calls. Streaming audio seems to work fine, just phone calls have the issue. I have tried repairing the phone to Honda’s hands free link and clearing BT devices on both phone and vehicle. Also restarted my phone. Still no luck. Hopefully a fix will be available soon. In the meantime, I’m using a Bose Bluetooth Headset for calls.

  154. I still have bluetooth audio problems with my iPhone 6 Plus. I’m running 8.1. I drive a 2011 Lexus CT200h. I get broken/stuttering audio on phone calls. The other side can hear fine. I’ve deleted all phone from my car system. I’ve deleted all bluetooth audio devices from my phone. I’ve restarted my phone, reset all setting, synched my phone. Nothing works.

  155. 2010 Mini Clubman – Bluetooth worked perfectly on every iPhone prior to the iPhone 6. Bluetooth on the iPhone 6 has never worked in my Mini, even with the new 8.1 update. All California cars are sold with Bluetooth, because it’s the law to use your phone hands free. Thanks Apple for downgrading your once reliable phones. What a load of *#&@*)!!&

  158. Could Not connect iPhone 5 (iOS 8.0) to New 2015 Mazda CX5. Bluetooth music worked fine but no phone capabilities. Downloaded iOS 8.1 as suggested on this site and everything is working PERFECTLY!!!!

  159. Have the Subaru Tribeca 2011. My iPhone 5C work fine to 8.1 now it’s sporadic at best. Apple is capable of much better. Why did they release something before it’s not ready is this the direction you’re going to take?

    • Steve Jobs drove a Mercedes. For years, he drove around Silicon Valley in a a silver 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG without a license plate. Steve Jobs drove only 5,500 miles per year. If he was around iOS 8.1 would be Bluetooth 4.0 downward compatbile.

  161. iOS 8.1 iPhone 6, and 2014 Honda Accord: Bluetooth connection and phone functions seem to work. Audio controls from car via Bluetooth DO NOT work. It all worked before on on iOS 7 and iPhone 4s.

  162. 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser. iPhone 6 w/iOS 8.1. After a struggle I had a struggle I somehow got the BT to work perfectly w/ the car audio (phone and MP) using 8.0.2. This lasted about a week. Driving down the road listening to music when it just stopped. I was able reconnect to the car audio, but only the MP worked, no phone calls. Installed 8.1 hoping it would resolve the problem. No luck. I’ve tried everything. Car audio connects to the phone – no problem. MP plays – no problem. Forget about phone calls, that’s not happening. If I try to dial out, the car radio dutifully pauses the music, but the call goes through the phone not the car audio 🙁 This is not good!!

    • Same for me with a 2013 FJ Cruiser – I have yet to be able to get the device to work at any time with my head unit in the car and have given up, I have given the iphone6 to my 14 YO daughter and gone back to the iphone5 with zero issues. Same old same old, no phone function but plays music just fine, problem is funny enough I use my phone to call people and not as an mp3 player so the primary function of the phone does not work with my car. I have given them till the 1st of Jan before I go Android.

  163. My Subarus dealer got 5S with iOS 8.1 paired in 10 minutes. She first deleted previous phones, then paired with internal audio option, not the pair phone option ( which would not work).

  164. 2014 Dodge Durango…Bluetooth working after upgrading iPhone 6 to iOS 8.1 without issue. It also fixed the Bluetooth Connection with my LG Tone+ Headphone.

  165. 2014 honda accord touring. My previous iPhone 4 worked perfectly. Bought the new iPhone 6 plus and it will not recognize the phone at all, even with the upgrade to 8.1 or maybe especially because of it. Very disappointed.

  166. MB 2015 c220 bluetech no blue tooth connection and no CarPlay on Iphone6 Galaxy s5 connects without any issues, not impressed if there is no fix for this in the next week the Phone is going back and the contract will be terminated, I need to be connected to my phone for my job, Apple, this is unacceptable!

    • When Apple starts seeing the numbers of iPhone 6 returns it may wake them up. People live with their cars for an average of 5-7 years and a smartphone around 2 years. I would return the phone and get a Samusng Galaxy Note 4.

  168. Mazda6 2013 Model… Still broken Bluetooth with iOS8.1. Weird that I can receive calls via the car kit & bluetooth, though when I go to make a call, the car displays “searching’ and then the iPhone (5) defaults to the handset. I can then toggle over to “Mazda” and connect… I wish Apple would fix this!

  169. I also upgraded run IOS 8.1 on my new iPhone 6, but the carkit of my Mercedes does not recognize my device, even after disconnecting from iCloud and resetting my iPhone. Tomorrow an Apple service agent will call me, but I am already rather skeptical since the T-Mobile agent agreed that there is a serious issue that will be repaired, but when he does not know. It looks like Apple is meeting similar problems of backward compatibility that microsoft experienced years ago. I will return the device if I can not use it with my handsfree set. Funny, but I did not have the issue with the iPhone 5 on IOS 8.1. However, since I upgraded from IOS6 to 7 I lost automatic recognition as I had to manually make connection each time when entering the car…

  170. I have a 2012 Sonata. My bluetooth connects just fine. I make and receive calls. My problem is that the contact list won’t download. I get the message “no phone directory”. I connected my old phone back to my car and the contacts load automatically.

  172. I have an issue in my MINI Countryman. My bluetooth connects just fine, I can make and receive calls, my phone charges with the plugin, the car even recognizes the device when I go to multi-media, but when I click to play a song, it doesn’t recognize the files. ALL was fine until 8.1

  173. Quick update – found a post on another site to use General – Reset all Settings, then delete the bluetooth pairings and re-pair. This worked for me. If you have any documents be aware there is a bug that may cause your documents to be permanently deleted, so save them first.

  174. iOS 8 and 8.1 work with my 2014 Equus, but 8.1 broke connectivity with my LG headset. Every 30 odd seconds it disconnects, then reconnects – stopping play of music. After hearing that a few dozen times while running, I opted for silence.

  175. 2012 Fiat 500 Sport. IOS 8.0.2 worked great but the new 8.1 version is back to being broken. Every time I sit in the car, Blue&Me needs to sync the phonebook contacts. This is the same thing that was wrong on IOS 8.0 version.

  177. Upgraded to 8.1 and my 4s Bluetooth worked temporarily with my Pioneer NEX4000 unit. Then could no longer answer phone via Bluetooth just as before.

    • Pioneer claims no Bluetooth issues with iOS 8.

      Their PR guy says there are no issues. However they do have a support line at 1-800-421-1404, Monday – Friday, Between 7:30 – 11:30 AM and and 12:30 – 4:00 PM PST.

      So far we have not been able to get any company to admit that there is a problem.

  178. I have a Hyundai Sonata 2013 and the Bluetooth connection is still not working as prior to the iOS 8 updates, including the latest 8.1. I can never hear the dial tone.

  180. I have been having problem connecting my new iPhone 6 plus with my 2006 Lexus GX 470 Handsfree Bluetooth and my after market Bluetooth Grom-car audio. These devices worked seamlessly with my iPhone 5s. Apple is on it’s way to loose a lot of customers from this multitude of problems plaguing their iOs. Someone needs to remind Apple that Samsung is happy and looking forward to welcome their customers.

  181. I updated to 8.1 and the iPhone will not make nor receive calls via bluetooth on my 2015 Subaru Forester and iPhone 6.

  182. Still no outgoing calls. Mitsubish Lancer 2014. Looks like a move away from Apple after many years of loyalty. No choice, work affected.

  183. Mazda 3 Sport 2010 – updated to iOS 8.1 but still got bluetooth issues!!! (won’t auto-switch audio source when calls connect). Manually switching is dangerous when driving, but I have little choice. Well done Apple – NOT!!!
    Price differential is no longer worth it – just waiting for contract renewal. So disappointed. 🙁

    • Seconded, I had no problems with my 5s when it was running iOS 7, as soon as I upgraded to 8 outgoing calls default to my phone speaker even when I’m connected to bluetooth in my 2012 Mazda 3. Incoming calls and music still work fine though.

  188. I have a 2013 Subaru STI and have not been able to connect since getting the iPhone 6+. My wife’s 6+ does not connect either. Both our phones now don’t connect to all our blue tooth electronics in our home 🙁 I’ve updated to 8.1 thinking it would have fixed the issue. Now have to try her phone on her MB GL550- bet it will be bad as well. The iPads connect since I’ve not updated the software to the latest IOS.

  191. Cannot get outgoing calls with Bluetooth and iOS 8.1 in Mitsubishi Outlander 2013 – worked fine before I updated! How can Apple release something which won’t work in so many vehicles – surely they must check this out by trials!!!

  193. I have a 2010 MB GLK and iOS 8.1 on my iPhone 5 worked fine. Got a iPhone 6 today and it can’t find my phone.

  194. I have a 2015 outback and 8.1 did not fix my problem. iOS 8 broke my ability to access menus from car controls when connected via BT. It worked with iOS 7.x. I’ve tried nuking settings without success.

  196. I have 2014 Cooper S convertible (no Mini Connect). BT worked perfect before the new IOS. Installed 8.1 today and problem persists.

  197. 2010 Honda Accord – no change. Must connect manually. Once connected, it stays connected, but I must manually connect each time I start the engine.

  198. Bluetooth was working fine with my Grand Cherokee 2011 prior to 8.1.
    Since the update my iPhone 5 doesn’t seem to see my car anymore ?

  199. I have a 2013 Subaru Crosstrek and the Bluetooth paired when initially set up on my iPhone 6 (iOS 8.1), but does not stay connected after the ignition is turned off / on.

  200. ’15 Subaru Outback the song LIST button is still absent (was there before 8.x updates). No longer displays the picture/icon of the artist.

    • It looks like the update only helped with 2015 model cars and there is a download compatibility issue. Since most car development cycles for infotainment units is 3 years.

    • The update appears to only helping with new model cars and there is a Bluetooth downward compatiblity issue.

    • Just bought Honda Fit 2015. How did you repair Bluetooth issues. I can either have Bluetooth and phone or no Bluetooth and have map
      Ing directions. Not both

  204. I have a 2013 Hyundai Sonata and I am still having Bluetooth issues. I have to manually connect and the Bluetooth will randomly disconnect while driving. When I exit my car, I have to restart my Iphone 6 because the sounds will not work.

  205. I have a 2013 Subaru Outback and the Bluetooth pairs with my iPhone 6 (iOS 8.1), but does not stay connected after the ignition is turned off.

    • iphone6 8.1 pairs with 2014 Subaru Forrester but will not automatically reconnect. Re-pairing every time the ignition is turned off.

      • I have the same problem with my 2013 Impreza. It is very frustrating to have to pair it every time I get in the car, often I have to try it 2-3 times before it connects.

        • Outback 2013. Have to manually connect every time too. Most times at least 3 tries before it works. Now it sometimes shows connected on my phone but not on the stereo display. So frustrating!!

          • I have a 2015 Subaru Legacy…The Bluetooth connection worked with my iPhone 4s I bought the 5s 10/26/14 (my bday) and the connection did not work. If I try to connect with my old phone it works; it has to be iOS 8.1. Praying for fix soon.

      • I have the same issue with my 2011 Impreza. I loved getting into my car and last song I was listening to would automatically come on… Now I have the 6+ and I have to manually connect it every time in the freezing cold

  206. I updated to ios 8.1 and the bluetooth auto connect still does not work with my 2013 Subaru Outback and iphone 6. It worked great with my iphone 5 before the ios update. Apple needs to fix this or they will loose a customer. It seems to connect most of the time on the first manual connect try which is better than the 5 or 6 trys it would take before.

    • I have a 2013 Cadillac XTS – have loaded in 8.1 and still have Bluetooth sporadic connection problems to the telephone voice command system

      • 2015 KIA Optima-5c iPhone voice command to dial contacts does not recognize correct names. Dealer tried connecting with a 5s and supposedly worked fine. Both using 8.1. 2012 Hyundai Sonata worked much better!!

        • 2014 Kia Cadenza pairs with iPhone 6 and reconnects but the sound is not audible and the microphone doesn’t work renderin the connection useless

    • I have a 2010 Volkswagen Sportswagon. Updated to iOS 8.1. No connection now with my iPhone five. I should have never updated!

      • Town and Country Chrysler, 2009, iPhone 5s. Now I have NO Bluetooth! Not in car or in house phone. Tried all “fixes”.

    • Have version 8.1.2 and iphone 6 cant find or connect my plantronics legend headset. No problem with 5s. $800 for a phone not able to do the basic stuff is completely unacceptable Apple. I will return my phone today and go away from Apple forever. All those spps purchased now a waste. But Apple has been losing grip for some time now si no longer worth paying a premium.

    • I didn’t have in issue with my iPhone 5 with the Bluetooth connection. As soon as I got my iPhone 6 about a week ago, therefore updating my phone to iOS 8.1.2, my phone will literally connect and disconnect to my car every 30 seconds or so, my call also dropped 5 times in the matter of 10 minutes today. I have a 2013 Honda Civic.

      • Same thing here but whoever I call hears a noise sometimes so bad , they just want to end the conversation , I have a 2012 civic and iPhone 6+

        • I found that if you turn the volume on your phone down before connecting it stops that horrible noise. Don’t have to turn it all the way down just less under halfway.

      • I recently started to see the same issues. I have an iPhone 6+ and my phone connects and disconnects randomly to the handsfreelink on my 2013 civic. Any ideas on what the problem might be, or what you did to fix this issue?

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