Resolve Incorrect Location in CarPlay with Hard Reset and Start/Stop Button
Having recently purchased an iX50, I was excited to take it on a family trip to Tahoe. The car performed flawlessly, and CarPlay worked without any issues. However, the next day when I was driving to the store, the HUD suddenly told me to get back on the highway. Upon further inspection, I noticed that both Google Maps and Apple Maps were showing an incorrect location.
I tried rebooting my phone twice but there was no change. It seemed like a software or firmware issue with CarPlay and the BMW GPS. After some research, I found out that I could hard-reset my front dash 3x times by pressing and holding the volume knob in the center console for 10-15 seconds. This eventually resolved the issue and CarPlay started showing the correct location.
For others who may experience this issue, it is important to note that CarPlay has the ability to use the car's GPS devices if the car supports it. Most cars don't do this as it requires updating their software to get the GPS data and send it to the iPhone. Additionally, there have been some issues with GPS in pre-release models which should now be solved. If all else fails, try resetting your front unit 2-3 times using Rickardg's method of pressing start/stop button rapidly 3 times followed by pressing and holding volume roll in center console down until system restarts.
In conclusion, if you are experiencing incorrect location on your CarPlay, try rebooting your phone first and then hard-resetting your front dash 3x times if necessary. If all else fails, take your car into a service center for further assistance. With the right steps, you can get your CarPlay back to its correct location in no time.
How can I fix a wrong CarPlay location?
Try hard-resetting your front dash by turning the car on like normal, and then pressing and holding the volume knob in the center console for ~10-15x seconds. The front display will be rebooted, and may resolve the issue if you come across it. If this doesn't work, it may be a vehicle GPS calibration issue or something along those lines.
Does CarPlay use the car's GPS devices?
Yes, CarPlay has the ability to use the car's GPS devices, if the car supports it (it's an optional part of the CarPlay specs). Most cars aren't doing this, probably because it's more work on their software team (they have to update their software to get the GPS data and send it to the iPhone).
Is rebooting my phone necessary when using CarPlay?
Rebooting your phone may help if you're having issues with CarPlay. I've had multiple occasions since iOS 15 release where maps got very confused during CarPlay (not with an iX), and the only fix was a phone reboot. It's worth a try if you're having issues.
What other solutions are there for CarPlay location issues?
If the hard-reset of the front dash didn't work, then it may be time to look into GPS calibration. This is a process where your car's GPS system is adjusted to ensure that the location data sent to CarPlay is accurate. You can find instructions on how to do this online, or you can take your car to a dealership and have them do it for you. Additionally, make sure that your phone has the latest version of iOS installed, as this could also help with any location issues.