Most Americans with a driving license today won’t buy a new car unless it has Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility. Smartphone manufacturers are finding their share in the automotive world!
These widely-used systems are generally easy to set up. However, there are always bugs and glitches to be found and remedied.
Apple CarPlay on the VW ID.4 connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi or with a wired connection. This guide will take you through the setup process and explain the basics of using Siri voice commands.
As always, read your owner’s manual before setting up or operating Apple CarPlay in the ID.4. That way, you’ll get the most model-specific information. It’s what it’s there for, after all!
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How to set up VW ID.4 CarPlay
As mentioned, you have two options for connecting your iPhone to Apple CarPlay.
- Wireless
- Wired
Note that the App-Connect button is an icon of a mobile device in front of the infotainment system screen.
How to connect to Apple CarPlay – wireless connection
Follow the below instructions to wirelessly connect to Apple CarPlay in your ID.4.
- Ensure you’re safely stopped and in Park, for example, in your driveway.
- Pair your phone with the car.
- Ensure WLAN (Wi-Fi) and Bluetooth are activated on the phone.
- Press the Home button on the infotainment system.
- Select the App-Connect icon.
- Choose the Apple CarPlay icon.
How to use VW ID.4 Apple CarPlay
You can use Apple CarPlay in the ID.4 with voice commands or by selecting the icons on the infotainment system screen.
It’s recommended that you don’t operate the touchscreen while driving.
- Choose the relevant apps on-screen.
- For example, you could select Messages and then use Siri to send a message.
- These days, many apps can be mirrored in Apple CarPlay.
- Alternatively, press and hold the voice command button on the steering wheel.
- This activates Siri, which can be used to control Apple CarPlay and your iOS device.
- Tapping the voice command button (not holding it) will start the car’s standard voice control function – not Siri.
Disconnecting Apple CarPlay from the VW ID.4
To disconnect your phone from a wireless CarPlay connection:
- Press the VW icon while CarPlay is open.
- This takes you to the App-Connect menu.
- Tap the disconnect button to sever the connection.
- The disconnect button is an icon of a mobile device with an ‘X’ in front.
The process is even simpler if you’ve connected via a USB-C wired connection.
- Pull the USB-C connecting lead out of your phone’s charging port.
The connection to CarPlay in your ID.4 will automatically sever.
VW ID.4 CarPlay system limitations
Even if your VW ID.4 has Apple CarPlay (or Android Auto), you must maintain awareness of the road and your surroundings.
Only use Apple CarPlay if it’s safe to do so.
Some apps aren’t compatible with CarPlay, too. Don’t try to look through the system while driving since this could distract you from impending danger.
The following restrictions also apply:
- Apple CarPlay and App-Connect are only available in certain parts of the world.
- The iPhone must be new enough to support Apple CarPlay.
- You have to turn on Siri and CarPlay in the iPhone settings.
- If connecting via a USB-C wire, you need an original one from Apple. Aftermarket products might not work.
- Apple CarPlay can’t work simultaneously with many of the VW system’s standard functions, including navigation and media. For instance, you can’t use your iPhone as a Media source in the usual menu.
Apple CarPlay must be used safely. However, it’s a great addition to a modern car and compatible with all VW ID.4 models.
Read your owner’s manual before setting up and using CarPlay, so you understand the (very few) restrictions that come with it.
You’ll find a PDF copy of the VW ID.4 owner’s manual below.
