8 Potential Solutions
As technology progresses, the vehicles we drive grow more and more complex. That wasn’t always the case. In the 1930s, laws were proposed to forbid radios from cars, with supporters claiming they would be too distracting to drivers. Today, however, you can even purchase vehicles with TVs built in.
One of the most popular technologies built into today’s vehicles is Bluetooth, a tool for wirelessly exchanging data over short distances. With Bluetooth, you can directly connect phones and other mobile media players directly to your car stereo. Though it has certainly proven its usefulness, your Bluetooth can malfunction.
If you’re unable to fix your Bluetooth device after troubleshooting, there could be a defect in your car. In this case, reach out to us at 833.422.7529 for a free consultation and we’ll investigate a flaw in the car’s design.
Problems with Bluetooth
There are dozens of factors that could interfere with your Bluetooth connection. One of the biggest issues some see is the age of the mobile device. Bluetooth-equipped vehicles manufactured 10 years ago were designed with an older version of Bluetooth in mind. Although today’s devices are typically engineered to be compatible with older version of Bluetooth, that isn’t always the case.
You may also run into the opposite problem: an older device won’t connect with a newer vehicle. In both cases, an upgrade may be the easiest fix.
Another problem is simply human error in the design stage. It’s not uncommon for the latest mobile devices to come off the shelf incompatible with some Bluetooth devices, despite the manufacturer’s best intentions.
Finally, interference—in many different forms—can prevent proper connectivity. Interference could be anything from an intrusive app downloaded to the device to another Bluetooth-equipped device in the area.
Solving Bluetooth Problems
Troubleshooting Bluetooth issues in your vehicle requires examining four separate components: your phone’s hardware, your phone’s operating system, the vehicle’s hardware, and the vehicle’s operating system. Typically, however, you’ll find the solution in one of the operating systems.
Potential solutions you can try right away:
- Enable both Bluetooth devices. This includes making sure the feature is enabled on your phone or tablet, and also checking that it wasn’t turned off in your vehicle.
- Turn your mobile device off and then back on. It’s an old technique that works by resetting the device.
- Sit the device close to the stereo. Bluetooth technology typically works within a close range, but too many obstacles can reduce its signal strength. When connecting, keep your device out of all bags, and place it near the stereo.
- Eliminate interference. Simply turning your phone into a hotspot for WiFi can create interference that makes it impossible to connect. If your Bluetooth isn’t working, keep your hotspots turned off. Apps designed to connect to certain smart devices may also create barriers, so delete any recently-downloaded apps to see if any one of them is the culprit.
- Check your power. Many of today’s devices are equipped with a power-saving mode. This works by preventing unnecessary features from running in the background, and this can interfere with Bluetooth functionality. Check your power mode, and consider recharging.
- Keep your device up-to-date. Ensure you’re running the latest version of your operating system so you’re not missing out on a Bluetooth-impacting patch.
- Delete your profile. If you’re still having issues, try deleting your user profile from your vehicle’s software. Afterwards, try reconnecting with your device.
- Turn off other Bluetooth devices. Too many Bluetooth-equipped devices nearby can create barriers to connection.
Legal Help for Bluetooth Problems
If your vehicle’s Bluetooth feature is malfunctioning, it may be a flaw in the vehicle’s design. Robison Lemon Law Group is here to help. With years of experience in the industry, we understand state laws and the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act—which were put into place to protect consumers like you. We can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your faulty vehicle.