How to Connect Bluetooth to JVC Car Stereo

Car rides and music are the perfect combinations. After all, who doesn’t want to listen to their favorite tunes while on a long road trip? For that reason, get the best JVC car stereo.

JVC has had a reputation as a top brand for audio and video technology since 1927, including car stereos.

JVC’s in-car entertainment products offer exceptional performance above their price category, delivering superb sound without breaking the bank balance.

But to unleash the full potential, connect Bluetooth to a JVC stereo. The connection may seem like a bummer, but it’s not rocket science—I promise!

No, you don’t have to watch complex videos on YouTube,

The perfect know-how equips you with the skills to get it all done yourself without bringing in a professional.

Ready to connect Bluetooth to JVC stereo? Here’s everything you should know.

The steps are simple to follow.

Why Bluetooth Is Indispensable in a Vehicle

Before we jump into the “hows,” it’s better to know the “whys.”

More and more devices are connecting with the Internet of Things (IoT) on the horizon.

Bluetooth technology plays a vital role in connecting devices to each other, including those in your car.

So, why is Bluetooth such a critical in-car technology?

Hands-Free Phone Access

Hands-Free Profile (HFP) is the most popular reason for using Bluetooth in the car.

After a brief pairing process (which we discuss below), speakers and a microphone connected to your JVC car stereo take over the input and output of audio during calls when driving.

Most stereos boast a caller ID system, such as Phone Book Access Profile (PBAP), which syncs with phone contacts to display caller names on the stereo, browse known contact. PBAP also lets you access recently received, missed, and dialed calls.

A Voice Recognition Dialing feature lets you dial a contact by just mentioning the name in your phone book into the microphone.

Hands-free call making and receiving ensure your hands are on the steering throughout for a safe drive.

Text Messaging

The Text Messaging Service in some JVC stereos gives the units bidirectional access to messages on the connected phone.

Incoming messages can pop up on the stereo’s display, relieving the temptation to reach for the phone whenever the notification chimes.

Audio Streaming

Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) allows your JVC unit to receive stereo audio from connected Bluetooth phones.

The same wireless connection that carries voice for hands-free calling now helps you listen to music on your phone.

You can also stream from internet radio services, such as Spotify or Pandora, and even listen to podcasts.

A2DP technology also enables the stereo to receive metadata from the phone and control playback.

Metadata includes information such as the artist’s name, song, and album. Album artwork may appear on the stereo screen. Audio controls include volume up and down, play and pause, and skip commands.

Data Tethering and Apps

Many Bluetooth-compatible phones have data tethering, so they can share an internet connection with a suitable JVC stereo.

Most compatible stereos require little data to do their thing, making them perfect for Bluetooth tethering.

The connection means you don’t rely on satellite radio subscriptions for traffic data available on the web.

Some stereos use Bluetooth technology to control smartphone apps. This capability increases the functionality of a unit, from using voice commands to choosing radio stations from Pandora.

Directions

Modern cars have built-in GPS. Older vehicles without the device can still connect to your phone and use its GPS thanks to Bluetooth connectivity and JVC stereos.

Plus, the stereo amplifies directions via the car speakers.

Personal Assistant

Bluetooth enables the management of calls, music, data, and texts with your voice through programs such as Siri.

You don’t need to handle the phone, just dictate. It is like having a personal assistant in your car.

There you have them, all the benefits of having a Bluetooth connection in your car!

Turning on Bluetooth on Your JVC Stereo

Always activate Bluetooth on the JVC stereo to start the connection.

Turning on Bluetooth also enters the JVC stereo in a pairing mode, so it receives and transmits connections.

Here are the instructions for turning JVC car stereo’s Bluetooth:

  • Step 1: Press the unit’s SOURCE button to turn it on.
  • Step 2: Press the stereo’s DISC button and operate with the volume knob or remote control to find the Bluetooth option.
  • Step 3: Press DISC for a list of devices connected to the stereo.
  • Step 4: Find the name of your iPhone or Android device and press the volume button to enter pairing mode.
  • Step 5: Press the volume button again to select the device. You need to select your phone’s name and press the volume button again to connect to the device. You can now use the voice control function if your stereo supports it.

How to Connect Your Android Phone to JVC Stereo

Know the Bluetooth version and device compatibility before connecting Bluetooth to the car stereo.

Many devices don’t have Bluetooth features and are only compatible with Bluetooth 2.1 and later. Check the Bluetooth version of your stereo and phone, so they are the same.

Pairing the automobile stereo Bluetooth to your Android device is simple. I outline the basic steps below.

  • Step 1: Head over to the phone settings and turn Bluetooth on. Alternatively, you can swipe down on the home screen and tap on the Bluetooth icon to turn it on.
  • Step 2: Your phone will search for devices ready to pair. Select your JVC unit once it appears.
  • Step 3: Some Android devices pair automatically without asking for a code, but others will ask you to input the security code that pops up on the stereo’s display.
  • Step 4: Follow the instructions, whatever they are, and press ok. You’re ready to stream.

How to Connect Your iPhone to the JVC Stereo

Pair your iPhone with the JVC unit with these steps:

  • Step 1: Open settings and turn on Bluetooth.
  • Step 2: The phone will search for available Bluetooth devices. Select your JVC stereo once it appears on the screen.
  • Step 3: Your stereo will show BT Pairing on the display.
  • Step 4: Check the security code on your iPhone and stereo are the same.
  • Step 5: Confirm the code by pressing the volume control knob on the car stereo and Ok on your iPhone.

Unfortunately, some phones will not work with some JVC stereo systems. Use this link to check whether your phone is compatible.

Reasons for Bluetooth Connection Failure

It’s frustrating when Bluetooth does not connect. The good news is that you can fix almost all issues.

Reasons for Bluetooth connections failure range from interference to compatibility issues. But it’s an excellent idea to restart your JVC stereo and phone before investigating further.

If the failure is persistent, here are some likely reasons.

Incompatible Bluetooth Versions

Bluetooth is universal, but different devices have different versions that don’t work together.

There’s a chance your stereo has an older Bluetooth version than your phone, but both should still work seamlessly in most cases. However, this does not apply when one device has Bluetooth Low Energy (or Bluetooth Smart).

Such devices will only pair with Bluetooth Smart-compatible devices. If your stereo and phone refuse to connect, research to determine if they are compatible.

The Distance Is Too Far Apart

Most Bluetooth devices remain paired as long as they are about 30 feet from each other. The devices work better the closer they are to each other.

Remove any obstructions between your JVC stereo and phone.

Once you establish the Bluetooth connection, it should remain intact even when you put your phone in a car phone holder, backpack, or pocket.

Bluetooth Is Disabled

If Bluetooth isn’t working on your JVC stereo, it might be disabled in the settings.

Likewise, check the settings on your Android or iPhone device to make sure Bluetooth is enabled.

Signal Interference

Hotspots and public Wi-Fi networks can interfere with your stereo’s Bluetooth.

Switch off your mobile hotspot, if you have one in the vehicle. Turn it back on once the devices pair with no issues.

USB3.0 connections may spit out interference within the 2.4 GHz spectrum of Bluetooth devices. The issue occurs because of poor shielding.

However, interference is more common in an office or home setting. But someone using a USB3.0 laptop connection in the passenger seat can be a source of interference.

Electronic devices that bleed into the 2.4 GHz spectrum will interfere with the operation and pairing of Bluetooth devices. Pair your JVC stereo and phone with the vehicle turned off or after unplugging accessories such as car power inverters.

Insufficient Battery Power

Bluetooth phone connections need a lot of power and reduce the operational battery life. Some phones enter a power-saving mode once the battery life is low, shutting off Bluetooth.

You can turn Bluetooth back on manually or connect the phone to a charger. However, it’s advisable to keep your phone fully charged or plugged in when creating a connection.

The Stereo and Phone Are Not in Pairing Mode

Make sure phone Bluetooth is on and the JVC stereo is in pairing mode.

Also, make your stereo or phone discoverable. If the devices are discoverable and not showing up on each other’s list, you may have a Bluetooth compatibility problem.

How to Fix JVC Stereo Connectivity Problems – 4 Methods

Here are four methods to solve most JVC car stereo’s Bluetooth connectivity issues.

Method 1: Delete Paired Devices

Pre-existing pairings can cause Bluetooth connectivity issues.

Use this fix if you’ve connected multiple devices to your JVC stereo before.

  • Step 1: Open the Source function on your stereo.
  • Step 2: Open Settings and find Bluetooth.
  • Step 3: Find the Delete Pairing Option and press Enter.
  • Step 4: You’ll get a prompt that asks for confirmation. Press the volume control knob again.

Most JVC stereo setups are organized the same, but newer models may have slight variations.

No matter what you’re getting, find the Bluetooth settings and delete all the paired devices. Some models will require deleting the device list one by one and others will clear it at once.

Method 2: Reboot the Stereo

If the previous method doesn’t work, try this.

The stereo system may jam or lag, which prevents it from working smoothly, but a reboot will help.

Here’s how to reboot a JVC stereo:

  • Step 1: Turn off your vehicle.
  • Step 2: Pop the hood and disconnect the battery’s negative terminal for a minute.
  • Step 3: Reconnect the terminal.
  • Step 4: Start the engine and see if Bluetooth works again.

Method 3: Update The Stereo Firmware

Consider updating the stereo’s firmware.

The process is as simple as:

  • Step 1: Visit the JVC Firmware Updates page.
  • Step 2: Download your stereo model’s firmware, decompress it, and move it to a USB drive.
  • Step 3: Connect the drive to the stereo and update.

Method 4: Reset the JVC Stereo

The last method is extreme. So, only carry it out if the previous three fail.

  • Step 1: Use a paper clip or small pin that fits into the reset hole.
  • Step 2: Insert the pin, press, and hold for a few seconds till the head unit makes a beeping sound.
  • Step 3: The stereo restarts automatically after a short while.

Note that resetting your JVC stereo erases all data and restores factory settings.

Wrapping Up…

The sight of flash drives and wires sticking out of the stereo, inputs, and ports can cause some discomfort to motorists.

You can avoid such a scenario by installing a Bluetooth-capable JVC in-car stereo.

Irrespective of the Bluetooth phone you’re using, it is easy to pair and connect it with your JVC stereo.

We hope the information and details above answer some of the burning questions you have about how to connect Bluetooth to JVC stereo.

Bluetooth technology helps improve your in-car entertainment options! Go wireless today!


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Robert Muñoz

I’m Robert, a US-based auto electrician, auto mechanic, trained engineer and fanatic about all things motor vehicle. After studying engineering in college I returned to my original passion - car mechanics - and I ran a garage for a number of years serving my local community. Through my garage, I got involved in numerous road safety campaigns in my local area until eventually, I decided to share what I've learned with the world. Know more about me... You can follow me on LinkedIn.

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