Sometimes, the Bluetooth microphone of Volkswagen cars can suddenly stop working, and many people do not know what to do in such a situation. You are at the right place if you are also looking for the solution to the same problem.
In this article, I am going to tell some possible reasons behind this problem and a few ways to fix this issue.
Reasons for VW Microphone not Working
There can be several reasons for the VW Bluetooth microphone not working, including wiring issues, software error, or hardware malfunction. To find the exact reason, one has to physically inspect the car and perform some diagnostic functions.
The three most common reasons behind this problem are discussed below:
- Wiring Issue:
There can be some issues in the wiring of the Bluetooth microphone that connects it with the car’s module. During any maintenance or repair, the wiring can get disturbed, which can cause this problem. The wiring can also get disturbed because of the constant vibrations and jerks faced by the car.
All other features of Bluetooth will be accessible and working fine if only the wiring gets disturbed. You can also check this issue by yourself, given that you have some know-how about the car’s module.
Also read: 11 Cars with the Best Sound System 2019
- Software Error:
Software error or glitch is the most commonly reported reason behind VW Bluetooth microphone fault. To detect this problem, you will need the Ross-Tech VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System). Sometimes this error can be resolved by simply restating the whole system.
In some cases, you may have to update your car’s software. Qualified VW technicians can also solve this issue by revamping the coding of your car’s module.
- Hardware Malfunction:
The physical microphone installed in your car can also malfunction and cause this problem. The microphone can malfunction because of any moisture, physical damage, or electrical disturbance.
Repair of a damaged microphone is not an option in this case, and you will have to purchase a new microphone for your car. If you have the necessary tools, you can also perform this replacement by yourself.
How Does a Bluetooth Microphone Work?
A Bluetooth microphone is used to transmit the sound signal to an amplifier and which then transfers it to the speaker at the other end. It does so by using radio signal technology.
You can connect any device including Android phones, tablets, laptops, and iPhones with the Bluetooth microphone. This can be done by turning on the Bluetooth option of your device and then pairing it with the car’s Bluetooth module.
After pairing and syncing it with your car, you can use it to make a phone call without using your mobile or any other device. The latest Bluetooth microphones have near-field communication technology and by using it you can automatically pair your phone with the car by just bringing it closer than four inches.
How to Fix VW Microphone Not working?
You can try a number of solutions, in case the microphone of your VW is not working. I will explain them all one by one and you can choose the one which suits you the best.
Contacting the Dealership
If your car is covered by the VW warranty, then you can fix the Bluetooth microphone by contacting and visiting their dealership. You can check the warranty information by referring to the warranty and maintenance booklet found in the owner’s manual.
Volkswagen offers a 4-year or 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty that also includes powertrain coverage. The Volkswagen warranty also includes 3 years or 36,000 miles of roadside assistance and 2 years or 20,000 miles of complimentary regular maintenance.
This is the best possible solution that you can have. Dealerships have trained and qualified professionals who can quickly diagnose and solve the problem. You will have to pay the repair charges in case your VW is not covered by the warranty.
Also read: 12 Cheap Cars with Best Sound Systems (Bose, JBL, etc.)
Troubleshooting Yourself
I would suggest you try troubleshooting yourself before going to anyone. First, disconnect your device and also delete it from the infotainment system. Then try reconnecting it again to establish a new connection and see if the problem is solved.
Restart the module by pressing the power button for a little more than 30 seconds. Return all the settings to default and check if there is any sign of progress or change.
If it looks like a hardware malfunction you can also replace the microphone but you should get it replaced by some experienced professional.
Contacting VW Technical Assistance (VTA)
To get some guidance and technical assistance about the issue you can also contact the VW technical assistance (VTA). VW cars that are under warranty have a special VTA access code and using that you can call the VW technician helpline.
The technician will ask you some basic questions about the issue and you should explain your problem and answer his questions one by one. If the issue is not resolved by the verbal instructions then he will guide you about the further course of action.
Setting Up the Car-Net
You can also take the help of the VW Car-Net in this situation. It can be used to configure the Bluetooth microphone and to check its working condition and availability. Car-Net is a suite of connected features that are available on various models like Passat, Jetta, and Tiguan.
Follow the steps mentioned below to set up the Car-Net on your Volkswagen:
- Download the Volkswagen app from your apple or android app store. It is available with the name “my VW”.
- Sign up with your email address and create a password.
- Open the app and in case it is not showing your car you can add it by just entering the vehicle identification number (VIN) of your VW car.
- Then scan the QR code or enter the registration number of your car which can be found using the car’s infotainment screen settings. Go to Menu> Settings>VW Car-Net online services> Registration
- Create a four-digit pin and finally activate the VW Car-Net.
You can virtually control your car using the Car-Net system. It allows VW users to remotely start the engine (only the latest models are equipped with this option), lock the doors, flash the lights, and have control over many more custom command features.
Car-Net is free for the first five years of the car and after that, you will have to pay an annual subscription fee.
VW Bluetooth Microphone Voice Quality
In some cases, there is a voice quality issue with the Bluetooth microphone of a Volkswagen car. Usually, the person on the other end of the call struggles to understand your voice and it sounds like you are talking from a tunnel.
There are also some inevitable issues associated with the Bluetooth microphone like constant hum or background noise of the wind when the car is moving at high speed. There isn’t much that you can do about it. But you can solve away voice issue by troubleshooting the system.
First, you should check the mic volume or microphone sensitivity by using the Vag Com settings. Turn it up to a higher level and check if the issue is resolved. Also, update your system if there is any pending update as most of the times these minor issues are resolved with the new updated software.
References:
vwcaliforniaclub.com, reddit.com, vwvortex.com, easthillsvwofsayville.com, onioncreekvw.com, taosforums.com, vwatlasforum.com, justanswer.com, galaxymicrophone.com, wise-geek.com
