iPhone 16 (iOS 18) & 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – Bluetooth Hands-Free Call Disconnect Loop

If CarPlay doesn't detect your iPhone, make sure CarPlay isn't restricted. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. If Content & Privacy Restrictions are turned on, tap Allowed Apps and make sure CarPlay is enabled. Go to Settings > General > CarPlay, tap your car, and then tap Forget This Car.

If you need help with CarPlay - Apple Support (IN)

Search for accessories that have completed MFi certification. Once an accessory has completed MFi certification requirements and is reported to Apple as sold/distributed, it will be searchable in our public database of authorized Lightning, headset, charging, iAP-enabled, and Find My network-enabled accessories.

Learn how to identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning-based accessories.

On your device, go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth. Stay on this screen until you've completed the steps to pair your accessory.

Pair a third-party Bluetooth accessory with your iPhone or ...

If you're still having trouble with your car's audio system using CarPlay or Bluetooth, try the Aux cable. To get it fixed, there are two options:

1. Take your car to a reputable car dealer or car audio specialist. They have experienced technicians who can diagnose the problem with the Aux cable. This could be a loose connection, a faulty cable itself, or an issue with the system's Aux port. They'll be able to repair the issue or recommend a replacement cable if needed.
2. Consult your car's infotainment system manuals. These manuals often include troubleshooting sections that might address common Aux cable problems. You might find instructions for resetting the system, cleaning the Aux port, or confirming the cable's compatibility.

Before taking your car to a dealer, it's always a good idea to check the manuals first. This can sometimes save you time and money if it's a simple fix you can handle yourself. However, if the manuals don't offer a solution, or you're uncomfortable tinkering with the system, then a car audio specialist is the way to go.

Refer to the list of cars that are compatible with CarPlay --> iOS - CarPlay - Available Models

I am seeing the EXACT same thing with using Bluetooth on my iPhone 16 Plus and my 2019 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid. I've gone through the same steps you have (multiple times) and I also went so far as to reset the iPhone 16 and restored it from the last back up I made from my iPhone 14 Plus, which always paired via Bluetooth in my car flawlessly. All with no luck.

I contacted my local Toyota dealer yesterday (4/26/2025) and the service rep I spoke with said there is a known issue with Bluetooth on Rav4 specifically. And, like you, I was told that Apple needs to address the issue before Toyota can implement any necessary fix on their end. She told me there is nothing they can do and actually suggested I just turn Bluetooth off.

I still have an open support ticket with Apple about this and I've let them know I'm willing to offer any type of diagnostic testing they might need or want in the hopes that a solution can be found. But until then, I have a fully loaded Rav4 and a brand new iPhone 16 Plus that I cannot use together. To say that I am frustrated, is an understatement.

You kinda answered your own question. You report a problem with the vehicle, phone and Bluetooth. The other poster states the same thing and has received information from Toyota that they have a Bluetooth issue in your model of vehicle. You report that it works fine with a Bluetooth dongle. This means that Bluetooth is working just fine on your phone, the issue is with Bluetooth in the vehicle. This means Toyota needs to fix the issue with connecting to the iPhone.