Tech Center

Bluetooth Compatibility

California and other jurisdictions recently passed laws banning or restricting the use of handheld phones in the car. As a result, many people are probably going to begin a long and lasting relationship with Bluetooth. For an explanation of the technology, check out our "What the Heck Is Bluetooth and Why Should I Care" article.

Here's the short version: Bluetooth is basically a way to connect various devices wirelessly regardless of brand or function. For example, it makes it possible to talk on the phone in your car without having to hold the phone. This, of course, requires that both your car and phone be equipped with Bluetooth. If you're not planning on buying a new car for quite sometime, you can opt for an aftermarket unit like this Motorola T505 or Tekkeon ezSpeak. However, if you're buying a new car or phone in the next few years, you're gonna need Bluetooth. Even if it costs extra, get it. Even if you've never heard of Bluetooth, get it — you'll soon find it invaluable.

There is one teensy little problem, however: Not all Bluetooth phones are compatible with all cars, and some cars don't even offer the feature. For example, GM has not embraced the technology and currently just one of its vehicles has it — the new Cadillac STS. However, the story will change dramatically for 2009.

So, how can you know if your phone will work with the car you want to buy? Thankfully, most automakers that offer Bluetooth publish a list of compatible devices. These lists change frequently so don't rely on just the list, especially if you have a newer phone or PDA. In addition to checking the various compatibility lists, make sure to bring your phone or device with you on the test-drive. Just as you should ensure that your child safety seats will fit or that the folding seats are manageable, you should make sure your phone is compatible with your car.

Here's a list of vehicle manufacturers that offer Bluetooth and a link to their list of compatible devices:

Acura
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick — Buick vehicles offer hands-free calling via OnStar rather than Bluetooth.
Cadillac — STS only for 2008
Chevrolet — Chevrolet vehicles offer hands-free calling via OnStar rather than Bluetooth.
Chrysler
Dodge
Ford
GMC — GMC vehicles offer hands-free calling via OnStar rather than Bluetooth.
Honda
Hummer — Hummer vehicles offer hands free-calling via OnStar rather than Bluetooth.
Hyundai — port or dealer-installed only via Blue Connect
Infiniti
Jaguar
Jeep
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mercury
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pontiac — Pontiac vehicles offer hands-free calling via OnStar rather than Bluetooth.
Rolls-Royce
Saab — dealer-installed only. Check with your Saab dealer to see which phones will work.
Saturn — Saturn vehicles offer hands-free calling via OnStar rather than Bluetooth.
Subaru
Toyota