2012 GTI unable to connect to new iPhone

[petecds]

Hi,

I have a 2012 GTI and I'm having trouble connecting my new iPhone to it.

I've upgraded from the iPhone XR which had no issues connecting to the car.

During the pairing process, the car can identify the new phone and asks for the passcode (0000). However after this step, a message appears on the VW screen indicating that it is unable to connect to the phone.

Strangely, it can connect as a media player and play songs via bluetooth, but it cannot connect as a phone.

Just wanted to ask if anyone else has had experienced this - and whether or not there is a fix available.

TIA

[The_Hawk]

There has been mixed reports over the years with people with connection issues with the factory Bluetooth.

The simplest fix is to replace the head unit with an RCD330+ or something similar with its own Bluetooth and CarPlay (bonus for Wireless CarPlay). In my opinion the far better option.