Level 1

37 points

How can I fix Wi-Fi and CarPlay issues on iPhone 17 Pro Max?

Hi All, starting this thread as I purchased an iPhone 17 Pro Max today. Obviously it’s launch day so there’s not too much information on bugs as iOS 26 has recently come out in conjunction with the release of this phone. However, I’ve noticed some issues with my new phone and was wanting to see whether this is a ‘just me’ issue or it seems to be impacting other users.

Ive noticed that my wifi consistently was dropping in and out on setup and that my wireless apple carplay seems to disconnect intermittently.

I have tried a network settings reset with no resolution (twice) but would be really frustrated to have to reset my phone completely after transferring all my data across to my new phone.

I may end up returning this device and getting another one if any further issues persist whilst the return window is still an option.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Wifi issues on iPhone 17 Pro max

iPhone 17 Pro Max, iOS 26

Posted on Sep 19, 2025 12:49 AM

Top-ranking reply

MrRobotico

Level 1

8 points

Posted on Nov 7, 2025 8:56 AM

People on the MacRumors forum are experiencing the same issues, and most of them are blaming the new WiFi chip. Apple really let us down this time. If they are working on a solution, why not come out and say it? There’s an article coming out in our local town newspaper warning people to hold off on upgrading to the new iPhone 17. Maybe this will catch momentum with it being discussed on X and other platforms. Perhaps Apple will take notice and create a sense of urgency.

MacRumors thread below:

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-releases-ios-26-0-1-with-fixes-for-wi-fi-cellular-and-camera-issues-on-iphone-17-models.2467879/page-9

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323 replies

Nov 22, 2025 7:19 AM in response to madmycal

When I told the JoyeAuto distributor I had this issue, he didn't even ask what model of JoyeAuto or car. He just pointed me to the generic ISPBOOOT.bin file [sic - 3 Os!] and it worked.

It leads me to believe that all of their wifi adapter chips are the same, at least in current models. The firmware upgrade should be installed via USB and /should/ fix disconnect issues.

Dr.Anmar

Level 1

112 points

Dec 13, 2025 11:34 AM in response to 014p

I already referred to the local car retailer who in turn communicated with the manufacturer in China (as per him) which is "Chery".

As per him, the manufacturer acknowledged the issue. However, they declined being an issue with their infotainment software and that they are in communication with Apple regarding the issue. Apple is expected to release a software update fixing this issue, as per him, which it does not to seem to be the 26.2 version. And honestly, I don't know if this would ever happen.

Replacing the phone did not solve the issue for many users. So, I am not going to get in this pain of wiping the phone, sending it back, consuming a lot of time and effort, to end up having a defective phone again!

We need official statement from Apple regarding this issue with a working permanent solution without the hassle of this back-and-forth none-sense!

Dec 29, 2025 10:30 AM in response to fekolino84

fekolino84 wrote:

I'm still having connection problems, my iPhone 17 Pro Max 512 and my iPhone 17 Pro Max 256. I always have to go into settings/CarPlay to fix it. Apple, please help!!!

Apple isn't here. This is a user to user only forum. If you want to provide feedback to Apple, use this link --> Feedback - iPhone - Apple

Did you contact your car manufacturer to see if there is an update to the software in their infotainment system? Many car companies are rolling out updates.

Nov 7, 2025 7:48 AM in response to dajev

iPhone 17 Max Wired Carplay

I just upgraded to 26.1 and wired CarPlay is still very unreliable. Disconnects every few minutes. Never had an issue with my iPhone 13 18.6.

[Edited by Moderator]

Nov 22, 2025 7:21 AM in response to -MasterYous-

See my later posts - what actually fixed this was the firmware upgrade, not turning off my watch. Just happened that I did both at the same time!

Dr.Anmar

Level 1

112 points

Dec 13, 2025 6:07 AM in response to dajev

UPDATE:

iOS 26.2 has been released. iOS 26.2 DID NOT resolve the CarPlay problem.

Apple is not listening!

Dec 13, 2025 11:19 AM in response to -MasterYous-

By the way, none of the senior advisors at Apple have acknowledged this being a hardware issue. I’m skeptical that anyone admitted that to be honest

Dec 29, 2025 10:20 AM in response to dajev

I'm still having connection problems, my iPhone 17 Pro Max 512 and my iPhone 17 Pro Max 256. I always have to go into settings/CarPlay to fix it. Apple, please help!!!

How can I fix Wi-Fi and CarPlay issues on iPhone 17 Pro Max?