How Do I Connect My Phone To My Car?

The frustrating question of “How do I connect my phone to my car?” has plagued many drivers. Due to increasing restrictions in many states, hands-free phone use is integral to driving. 

There are many ways to connect your phone and car, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Bluetooth is the easiest way to connect your phone and perform hands-free functions such as calling, listening to music, and accessing navigation tools.

The car experts at Sierra Blanca Motors have compiled this guide to assist you in this essential process. Serving Ruidoso, NM, and the surrounding communities for over 50 years, we're here to help with all your vehicle needs.

Turn On the Bluetooth Setting on Your Phone and Car

Step one in connecting your phone to your car is to turn on the Bluetooth setting. Click a small icon located either on the dropdown menu or in your phone’s settings app labeled “Bluetooth.”

Most car models produced after 2010 have Bluetooth capabilities. However, the way that you access Bluetooth in your car may vary.

Some cars have a button displaying the Bluetooth symbol, while others have interactive touchscreens showing a Bluetooth button. Access this information using an instruction manual or the help menu on your phone.

Pair Your Phone with Your Car

Once you turn on Bluetooth on your phone and in your car, you may pair the two devices. “Pairing” means connecting via a Bluetooth signal.

To pair your car and phone, access the Bluetooth tab in your settings app. Look for a “pair new device” phone option. Under this tab, find the name of your car or the name shown on your car’s screen.

Many cars require phone setup through the car display as well, perhaps through a password. Check your car’s manual to learn your car’s password.

Set Up "Hands-Free" Driver to Use Voice Commands

The hands-free driver allows you to control your car the same way you would use the Siri digital assistant on an iPhone. Oftentimes, cars have a button located either on the steering wheel or shown on the interactive touch screen.

This setting, however, does not work in all cars. If your Bluetooth is connected to your vehicle, you can often use your phone’s digital voice assistant (such as Siri) to send a text or activate a call while you concentrate on driving. This way, you can send important information while safely driving.

Confirm All Contacts Are Added to Your Phone

Now that we have answered, How do I connect my phone to my car, there are some important things to know about hands-free navigation. If you need to make a call or send a text, it is essential to save your contacts.

By saving your contacts under simple names, you can easily give clear voice commands that your car comprehends, such as “Call Mom.” Make sure the names are specific but not too complicated, so your car’s artificial intelligence (AI) comprehends your commands. Simplicity enables you to complete tasks while safely driving.

Be Patient; It Might Take Time to Connect

The most important step in this process is to maintain patience. Although technology is now faster than ever, your car or phone may take some time to process a new connection. There are also various ways to troubleshoot if your phone is not pairing with your car.

For example, if multiple people use your car, sometimes the Bluetooth may connect automatically to another device that previously paired to your car’s Bluetooth. If that person is in the car, make sure they disconnect from your car’s Bluetooth signal. Then, try connecting yours again.

Sierra Blanca Motors | Your Local New Mexico Dealership

It’s okay to consult an expert. Sierra Blanca Motors is a family-owned car dealership in Ruidoso, NM, that will help with your car needs. Our family-owned dealership has operated for over 50 years.

We offer a large selection of new and certified pre-owned vehicles. We work with you to find the vehicle that perfectly suits your needs. At Sierra Blanca Motors, we provide excellent, friendly services.

Contact us at (575) 315-0145 or come and visit! We are always here to answer your questions and make the car-buying process as smooth as possible.