How Do I Connect My iPhone to My Toyota Avalon?

The Toyota Avalon is compatible with Apple CarPlay®, meaning anyone with an iPhone that’s relatively new can connect to it and enjoy their favorite apps through the car for safer, less-distracted driving. This blog is meant to take you step-by-step through the process of setting up Apple CarPlay®. These instructions apply specifically to the fifth generation of the Toyota Avalon, which includes the 2019 and 2020 model years, and will likely remain relevant for a few model years until the next time the Avalon is redesigned. 

Apple CarPlay® Setup Step One 

First off, you need to make sure your iPhone is compatible with Apple CarPlay®. You need to have an iPhone 5 or newer in order for it to work. That includes all versions of the iPhone 5, 6, 7, and on. As long as you have an iPhone 5 or newer, you need to turn on Bluetooth® on your phone, then pair your phone to the car’s Bluetooth®. If you need help completing this step, refer to this guide from Apple: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203412 

---

2020 Toyota Avalon Limited Interior Features

---

Apple CarPlay® Setup Step Two 

Start your car. As always, only navigate menus while parked, but when your car is on, press the menu button on the left side of the screen. Press the Setup button with the icon of a gear on it. In the list of setup options, you will need to locate the CarPlay® on/off button and switch it to “on.” 

Apple CarPlay® Setup Step Three 

To fully take advantage of Apple CarPlay® functionality, you need to connect your phone with a USB cable. This will likely be the cable your phone uses to charge. Plug the big rectangular end into the USB port in the center console of the Avalon. Note: there will be up to three USB ports, but two are marked for charging only. Use the one that is not marked for charging. In some versions of the Avalon, this port will have an auxiliary audio (3.5 mm) jack just above it. Plug the other end of the cable into your iPhone. 

Apple CarPlay® Setup Step Four 

Press the menu button on the left side of the car touchscreen again and select the Apple CarPlay® option and you’re good to go! In this mode, you can use your Apple Maps, Messages, and iTunes without needing to pick up your phone. It should also make hands-free calling as simple as can be. Learn to use the controls on your steering wheel and you’ll master Apple CarPlay® in no time! 

Posted in Toyota Avalon | No Comments »