How Do I Connect My Phone to My Toyota Yaris? Step-by-Step Guide

Connecting your phone to your Toyota Yaris can make every journey more enjoyable and convenient.
From hands-free calls to streaming your favourite tunes and navigating easily through your phone’s maps app, linking up your phone opens up a world of features that simplify your driving experience.
Here’s an easy-to-follow guide on connecting your phone to your Toyota Yaris, with details for both Bluetooth and wired connections, covering models with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Check Your Toyota Yaris Model for Compatibility

Before diving in, it’s essential to know what type of connectivity your Toyota Yaris supports.
Older models generally offer Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, while newer models may also have USB connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, giving you greater control over apps, maps, and media on your phone’s screen.

What Model Years Support Phone Connectivity?

Typically, Yaris models from around 2014 onwards come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity.
For Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you’ll find support in models from 2020 onward.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Toyota Yaris in general, check out our page on Toyota models for more insights.

Understanding Your Yaris’s Connectivity Options

• Bluetooth: Most common across Yaris models, Bluetooth allows wireless connection for hands-free calls and audio streaming.
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Available in more recent models, these systems enable you to access certain phone features directly on your car’s touchscreen. To use either, you’ll need a USB cable connection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting via Bluetooth

If you have a model with Bluetooth support, this is a quick and easy way to connect your phone.

1. Prepare Your Phone and Car for Pairing

• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone. You can typically find this under “Settings” > “Bluetooth”.
• Make sure your Yaris is turned on and that you’re stationary. While the pairing mode is active, some settings may be restricted when the vehicle is moving.

2. Find Bluetooth Settings in the Yaris

Go to the multimedia screen in your Yaris.
Select “Menu” > “Setup” > “Bluetooth”.
Choose “Add New Device”.
This step may vary slightly depending on your Yaris model, but the Bluetooth menu will generally lead you to a pairing option.

3. Initiate Pairing from Your Phone

• On your phone, locate your Yaris in the list of available Bluetooth devices. It may show as “Toyota Yaris” or a similar name.
• Select the Yaris from the list, and you’ll likely see a prompt to confirm a pairing code on both your phone and the Yaris’s display. If the codes match, confirm on both devices.

4. Verify Connection and Finalise Setup

• Once paired, the Yaris should confirm that your phone is connected. You’ll be able to make hands-free calls and stream audio directly from your phone.
• If you encounter any connection issues, restarting both your phone and car can sometimes help. You can also try deleting the device from both ends and re-pairing.

Connecting via USB for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

Using a USB connection to enable Apple CarPlay or Android Auto lets you unlock more advanced features.
This setup is only available in compatible Toyota Yaris models, generally from 2020 onwards.

What is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto replicate certain phone features on your car’s display, making it easier to access maps, messages, music, and more in a way that’s optimised for driving.
To explore more about the Yaris’s tech and production, you may want to have a look at our article on where the Toyota Yaris is made.

How to Connect an iPhone via USB Cable

• Plug a certified Apple Lightning USB cable into your iPhone and the Yaris’s USB port.
• If this is your first time connecting, a prompt should appear on your phone asking if you’d like to enable CarPlay with your Yaris.
• Confirm the prompt, and you’ll see the Apple CarPlay interface on your car’s screen, allowing access to apps like Maps, Music, and Messages.

How to Connect an Android Phone via USB Cable

• Make sure your Android device is running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later and has the Android Auto app installed.
• Connect your phone using a USB cable. For the initial setup, you may be prompted to accept permissions to allow Android Auto to access your phone.
• Once permissions are granted, the Android Auto interface should appear on your Yaris’s display.

Accessing and Customising Media Options

Navigating Audio and Media through Bluetooth

For Bluetooth users, accessing audio is straightforward.
Use your car’s touchscreen to select “Bluetooth Audio,” which will stream music or podcasts directly from your phone.
Adjust volume and playback through the steering wheel controls or on-screen.

Using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for Navigation and Calls

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide easy navigation via popular maps apps like Apple Maps, Google Maps, or Waze.
They also enable hands-free calling by syncing your phone contacts, allowing you to make calls using voice commands or through the screen interface.

Setting Favourites and Customising Quick Access

Some Toyota Yaris models allow you to customise the interface, letting you save favourite contacts, apps, or audio settings for quick access.
This feature helps streamline your driving experience by putting frequently used functions within easy reach.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Connectivity can occasionally be finicky, but here are some simple fixes to get back on track.

Common Bluetooth Issues and Solutions

• No Devices Found: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both your phone and the Yaris. Restart both devices if necessary.
• Failed Connection: If the Yaris doesn’t pair with your phone, try deleting the pairing history from both devices and then reconnecting.

Problems with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

• Unresponsive Apps: If apps aren’t working on the screen, unplug and re-plug the USB cable.
• Connection Dropping: Use a high-quality USB cable, as inconsistent cables can lead to connectivity issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

If the steps above don’t resolve your issue, it may be time to consult a Toyota technician, especially if your multimedia system may need an update.
And if you’d like some guidance on what to expect with service times, feel free to check out our page on how long it takes to service a car at a dealership.

Additional Tips for Seamless Connectivity

Keep Software Updated

Updating both your phone’s operating system and the Yaris’s multimedia software can resolve compatibility issues and introduce new features.
You can typically check for updates on your phone under “Settings” and your Yaris at a Toyota dealership.

Managing Battery Usage

Connections like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto can drain your phone’s battery quickly.
To keep it charged, plug it into the Yaris’s USB port or consider using a car charger if you’re on an extended journey.

Safety First

Using your phone in the car can be a great way to stay connected, but remember to always use hands-free options and keep your focus on the road.
Voice commands and steering wheel controls are designed to minimise distractions and make it easy to control your music, calls, and maps safely.

Conclusion

Connecting your phone to your Toyota Yaris is more than just a convenience; it’s a way to make every drive smoother and safer.
Whether you’re navigating with Apple CarPlay, enjoying a playlist via Bluetooth, or staying in touch hands-free, the options available ensure you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips.
Are you looking to buy a new used car? Contact us today and we can help you!