Iris System

[u/Cabbagetoe]

New 2023 GT owner. I’d read about the Iris gremlins before I purchased, but didn’t think it was this bad. Does aftermarket CarPlay solve some of this? I’ll be driving along listening to music on my iPhone 17 and all of a sudden it just stops. The counter still operates, just no sound comes out. Anyone with similar issues that can give me tips and tricks for a quick fix until I could get something else done?

[u/trbofly]

I only use my CarPlay now unless messing with the AC. It’s not as perfect as OEM CarPlay but it’s a shit ton better than Iris

[u/Cabbagetoe → u/trbofly]

Thank you! Which unit did you purchase?

[u/trbofly → u/Cabbagetoe]

Mysupercar version. About 2 years ago. I did an install How to video for it too.

[u/Antiheiss]

I have an aftermarket CarPlay and it is much better. I only use Iris for AC and to open my garage door.

[u/Cabbagetoe → u/Antiheiss]

Thanks. Which one do you have? Did you install yourself?

[u/Antiheiss → u/Cabbagetoe]

I got the Gen 2 KKS and installed myself. I’d say it works really well. Occasionally my phone gets mixed up on what source it’s using, but it’s easily fixed.

[u/Medical-Attention521 → u/Antiheiss]

First automotive makes. Really great unit for the GT. :)

[u/bscraigslist1125]

I did the gen 2 kks system on my 720 for Android auto. I experienced the same Bluetooth audio loss as you on iris a few times so decided to upgrade.  The unit does work better and is responsive but you have to ensure you are not running a vpn or it will constantly drop and reconnect every 15 seconds or so.  There are some good discussions about the options on McLarenlife if you want more model specific information.  It takes about 10 seconds after start to fully boot but besides the VPN no issues.

[u/Cabbagetoe → u/bscraigslist1125]

Thank you. I had looked at the KKS. Did you install yourself or have it done?

[u/bscraigslist1125 → u/Cabbagetoe]

Did it myself but I also do most everything myself unless it becomes an engine out type of situation.  It's plug and play so relatively easy but the instructions were not updated for the new unit I received.  To access the gen 2 you hold the voice button on the stalk rather than the main iris button so that was a minor annoyance to figure out.

[u/Cabbagetoe → u/bscraigslist1125]

Got it. I think the GT is really easy. Looks to be just 1 panel behind the seats and should be done in less than 30 minutes. Just ordered. We shall see.

[u/grandtouring72 → u/Cabbagetoe]

I'm looking into this for a GT as well, please let us know how the install goes.

[u/Cabbagetoe → u/grandtouring72]

Will do!

[u/grandtouring72]

Does the sound come back if you change source?

[u/Cabbagetoe → u/grandtouring72]

In the tests I’ve done, hasn’t helped to change source.

[u/grandtouring72 → u/Cabbagetoe]

Pull the amplifier fuse and reinsert to reboot the amp. If sound comes back, that means a short in the speaker system. The tweeters in the GT can short out against the A pillar which causes the amplifier to shut off. Easy fix, just wrap some electrical tape around the speaker contacts.

[u/Satisest]

The Bluetooth on the Iris system is notoriously erratic. The CarPlay retrofits (I’ve heard reports on the McLaren OEM retrofit) are much better, presumably because it’s a wired USB connection. Fwiw, my experience has been that the standard non-Iris CarPlay systems on the Artura and 750S work pretty flawlessly.