As cars become more advanced, touch screens have become an increasingly popular feature, offering easy access to everything from music and navigation to climate control and vehicle settings.
However, like any electronic device, touch screens can occasionally experience issues and stop working. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your touch screen for daily use.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons a car touch screen may stop working, as well as a variety of solutions you can use to fix the issue.
Table of Contents
- 9 Possible Reasons for Unresponsive Car Touch Screen
- Solutions to Fix a Non-Working Car Touch Screen
- 12 Preventive Measures for Maintaining a Car Touch Screen
- 1. Keep the Screen Clean
- 2. Use a Screen Protector
- 3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
- 4. Be Gentle
- 5. Keep the Software Up-to-Date
- 6. Don’t Ignore Minor Issues
- 7. Avoid Using the Screen with Dirty or Wet Hands
- 8. Use the Touch Screen Regularly
- 9. Keep Liquids Away
- 10. Store the Car Properly
- 11. Avoid Excessive Pressure
- 12. Keep the Touch Screen Covered
- Conclusion
9 Possible Reasons for Unresponsive Car Touch Screen
1. Dirty Screen
The touch screen in your car collects dust, dirt, and fingerprints over time. If you don’t clean it regularly, these particles can interfere with its functionality. Just like our phones and laptops, our car touch screens also need a good cleaning every now and then.
2. Frozen or Unresponsive Screen
Sometimes, your car’s touch screen can freeze or become unresponsive due to software overload or a glitch. When this happens, you can try resetting the system or waiting a few minutes before trying again.
3. Damaged Screen
Physical damage to your touch screen, such as cracks or scratches, can also cause it to stop working. This could be a result of a minor accident or something as simple as accidentally dropping your phone on the screen.
4. Loose Connections
Sometimes, the touch screen may not work due to a loose connection between the screen and the car’s electronic system. This can happen if the screen has been bumped or knocked around.
5. Outdated Software
Just like your phone or computer, your car’s touch screen may require periodic software updates to keep it running smoothly. If your touch screen is not working, it could be due to outdated software that needs to be updated.
6. Electrical Issues
Your car’s touch screen is connected to the electrical system of your vehicle. If there is an issue with the electrical wiring, this can affect the touch screen’s functionality.
7. Temperature
Extremely hot or cold temperatures can also affect the touch screen’s responsiveness. If you’re in a particularly hot or cold climate, this could be a reason your touch screen is not working properly.
8. Human Error
Sometimes, the reason for a non-working touch screen is simply human error. This could be anything from accidentally spilling a drink on the screen to accidentally dropping something on it.
9. Low Battery
If your car battery is low or has died, this could also affect the touch screen’s functionality. This is because the touch screen is connected to the car’s electrical system, which relies on the battery to function properly.
Solutions to Fix a Non-Working Car Touch Screen
1. Clean the Screen
If your touch screen is not working, the first thing you should try is to clean it with a microfiber cloth or a screen-cleaning solution. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be interfering with its functionality. Be sure to turn off the car and disconnect the battery before cleaning the screen.
2. Reset the System
If cleaning the screen doesn’t work, you can try resetting the system by turning the car off and on again. This can help clear any temporary glitches or freezes that may be affecting the touch screen’s functionality.
3. Check for Software Updates
As mentioned earlier, outdated software can also cause issues with your touch screen. Check your car’s user manual to see if there are any available software updates that you can install to fix the issue.
4. Seek Professional Help
If the above solutions don’t work, it may be time to seek professional help. An authorized dealer or mechanic can diagnose and fix any underlying issues that may be causing the touch screen to malfunction.
5. Perform a Hard Reset
Sometimes, a hard reset is necessary to fix a non-working touch screen. This involves disconnecting the car’s battery for about 30 minutes and then reconnecting it. This can clear any lingering software issues that may be affecting the touch screen.
6. Check the Connections
As mentioned earlier, loose connections can also cause the touch screen to malfunction. Check the cables and connections behind the touch screen to ensure they are secure and not damaged.
7. Replace the Touch Screen
If your touch screen is physically damaged, it may need to be replaced. Contact your authorized dealer or mechanic to see if they can order a replacement touchscreen for your vehicle.
8. Check for Warranty
If your car is still under warranty, check with your authorized dealer to see if the touchscreen issue is covered. This could save you money on repairs or replacement.
9. Use an Alternate Screen
If all else fails, you can try using an alternate screen, such as your phone or tablet, to control your car’s audio and navigation systems. Most modern vehicles offer Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to control these systems through your phone or tablet.
12 Preventive Measures for Maintaining a Car Touch Screen
1. Keep the Screen Clean
One of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain your car touch screen is by keeping it clean. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris on the screen. Avoid using harsh cleaning products, as they can damage the screen.
2. Use a Screen Protector
A screen protector is a thin film that covers your touch screen, protecting it from scratches and smudges. This is especially useful if you have kids or pets who like to play with the touch screen.
3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures can damage the touch screen, causing it to malfunction or crack. Try to park your car in a shaded area or garage to avoid exposing the touch screen to direct sunlight or extreme heat.
4. Be Gentle
Be gentle when using the touch screen. Avoid pressing too hard or using sharp objects to navigate the screen. This can damage the touch screen and potentially cause it to malfunction.
5. Keep the Software Up-to-Date
Keeping your car’s software up-to-date is important for maintaining the touch screen’s functionality. Check your car’s user manual for instructions on how to update the software. This can often be done via Wi-Fi or through a USB drive.
6. Don’t Ignore Minor Issues
If you notice any minor issues with the touch screen, such as unresponsiveness or inaccurate touch controls, address them as soon as possible. Ignoring these issues can cause them to worsen over time, potentially leading to costly repairs or replacements.
7. Avoid Using the Screen with Dirty or Wet Hands
Using the touch screen with dirty or wet hands can damage the screen and potentially cause it to malfunction. Make sure to clean your hands before using the touch screen to avoid any issues.
8. Use the Touch Screen Regularly
Using the touch screen regularly can help keep it in good condition. Touch screens are designed to be used frequently, and neglecting them for long periods of time can cause them to malfunction or become unresponsive.
9. Keep Liquids Away
Liquids can damage the touch screen, causing it to malfunction or stop working altogether. Make sure to keep liquids away from the touch screen at all times, and wipe up any spills immediately.
10. Store the Car Properly
Properly storing your car when it’s not in use can help maintain the touch screen’s functionality. If you’re storing your car for an extended period, make sure to cover the touch screen to protect it from dust and debris.
11. Avoid Excessive Pressure
Avoid applying excessive pressure to the touch screen. This can cause it to crack or become damaged. Instead, use gentle, light pressure to navigate the screen.
12. Keep the Touch Screen Covered
Keeping the touch screen covered when not in use can help protect it from scratches, dust, and other types of damage. You can use a soft cloth or a protective cover to cover the touch screen.
Read: How To Clean A Clogged Muffler [Easy Steps]
Conclusion
A non-working car touchscreen can be frustrating, but it’s not the end of the world. There are several possible reasons a touch screen may stop working, but thankfully, there are also many solutions available to fix it.
From checking the cables and connections to resetting the system, there are a variety of ways to troubleshoot the issue and get your touch screen back up and running.