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How to set a custom CarPlay startup sound (iOS 26)

Updated September 30, 2026

iOS doesn't let apps replace the built-in CarPlay chime, but a Shortcuts automation can play your own sound right after it — every time you get in the car.

How it works

The Shortcuts app has a CarPlay trigger: “Connects” and “Disconnects”. CarMood adds a “Play connected sound” action, so the automation plays whatever sound you picked in the app.

Set it up once

  1. Pick a sound in CarMood (Sounds tab).
  2. Open the Shortcuts app → Automation → “+” (New Automation).
  3. Choose CarPlay → Connects → Run Immediately, and turn off Notify When Run. Tap Next.
  4. Tap New Blank Automation → Add Action, search “CarMood” and choose “Play connected sound”. Tap Done.
  5. Connect to CarPlay — you'll hear your sound.
Do it in two taps with CarMoodDownload on the App StoreDownload on the App Store

Disconnected and arrived-home sounds

Repeat the steps with Disconnects and “Play disconnected sound”. CarMood can also play a sound when you drive into the zone around your home.

Which sound?

Pick from 100+ sounds — engines, sci-fi, chimes, voice greetings and trending memes — import your own clip, or create one with AI: a song with your own words or a voice over music.

Tips

  • iOS plays its short CarPlay chime first; your sound follows right after.
  • If your iPhone is locked, the first second can be slightly delayed — that's iOS.
  • Your sound plays at the car's media volume; music is lowered while it plays.

CarPlay guides