Identify the failure
- Confirm Bluetooth is on and the accessory is powered, charged and near the phone.
- If the device has never paired, put it in its manufacturer's pairing mode; being powered on alone may not make it discoverable.
- If it appears as saved but will not connect, check whether it is connected to another nearby phone or computer.
Reversible fixes
- Turn Bluetooth off and on, then restart the phone and accessory.
- On Android, open Bluetooth settings and use Pair new device for a new accessory; saved devices stay paired until removed.
- On iPhone, keep the Bluetooth settings screen open while pairing and follow the accessory maker's instructions.
- For a previously paired accessory, forget and pair it again only after checking the accessory's own reset procedure; this removes the existing pairing.
If only calls or audio fail
- If the connection drops repeatedly, check whether the accessory is switching to another paired device and compare a short test with that other device out of range.
- A successful connection does not prove that the car or headset supports every call and media function.
- Check the accessory's selected audio route and its own volume; consult its manual for supported Bluetooth functions.
- Seek manufacturer support if the accessory also fails with other phones or if the phone fails with several known-working accessories.
Sources & verification
Last checked: . Official guidance is the primary source. Steps can differ by model, carrier and software version.
- If a Bluetooth accessory won't connect to iPhone or iPad ↗Apple Support · 2026-09-26 · PH2-APPLE-BLUETOOTH
- Find and set up Bluetooth devices near your Android device ↗Google Android Help · 2026-09-26 · PH2-GOOGLE-BLUETOOTH