How to Pair an Android Device With Your Car’s Bluetooth System

A Bluetooth-enabled car audio system pairs with various Android devices, such as smartphones and tablets. You can also use a Bluetooth kit with an older car audio system to make it Bluetooth compatible. Pairing your Android device with your car’s Bluetooth system has many advantages, including hands-free calling, which is an important safety feature.

Hands-free calling means you can keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel and your vehicle in complete control. Not only can you take that important call from your boss while driving, but you can hear every detail through the car speakers with better sound clarity. Even better, you can loop your 80 pop playlist via your smartphone for long drives. Here’s how you can pair your Android device with your car’s Bluetooth system. 

Turn on Your Car’s Bluetooth System

This task varies according to your car audio system’s make and model, but you should have a manual or online access to a manual. Make sure your car’s Bluetooth system is set to “discoverable” or “Visible” after turning it on. If you’re using a Bluetooth kit, refer to the manual that came with it for the pairing instructions.

Turn on Bluetooth Connectivity on Your Android Device

Go to “Settings” on your Android device and navigate to the Bluetooth option. It’s usually under the “Wireless & Networks” menu. Turn on Bluetooth connectivity for your device.

Scan for Your Car Audio or Bluetooth Kit

Some Android devices automatically scan for other devices to pair with as soon as you turn on Bluetooth. 

Initiate the Pairing

Select your car audio system to initiate the pairing. The audio system may prompt you for a PIN. It usually pops up on your phone screen. If not, check the manual for the PIN or try “0000,” a common default PIN. Type the number into the system to complete the pairing process.

Check the Bluetooth Connection

Once your devices have established their Bluetooth connection, make the necessary audio adjustments before driving. Call a friend or two to see how their voices register over the speaker and adjust the volume, if necessary.