Waze is a powerful navigation app used by millions around the world. It provides real-time traffic data, incident alerts, and turn-by-turn voice navigation. However, if the audio isn’t working properly, it can severely limit the app’s functionality. Whether voice directions have suddenly gone silent or you never hear them at all, this issue needs a quick and reliable fix.
TL;DR
If Waze audio isn’t working, the issue might stem from incorrect sound settings in the app, muted system volume, or even Bluetooth connection problems. Start by checking the app’s volume settings and your device’s media output. Reconnecting Bluetooth devices or reinstalling Waze can also help. Follow the step-by-step guide below to fix the issue completely and ensure you’re always getting vocal directions on your rides.
1. Check Waze’s Built-In Audio Settings
The first step is to make sure that audio is actually enabled in the Waze app.
- Open Waze and tap on the speaker icon in the bottom right corner of the app’s home screen.
- Ensure the app is set to “Sound On”. Other modes like “Alerts Only” or “Sound Off” will mute the voice navigation.
- Tap the settings (gear icon) and navigate to Voice & Sound. Make sure a voice is selected under the “Voice Directions” section.
If no voice is selected, you won’t hear any directions—even if your volume is turned up.
2. Increase Device Volume for Media
In many cases, the Waze audio isn’t working because the media volume on your phone is turned down or muted. Waze uses the media audio channel to play directions.
- Open Settings on your phone.
- Go to Sound & vibration or similar section depending on your phone model.
- Adjust the Media volume slider and raise it to a high enough level.
Alternatively, while Waze is open and active, use the physical volume button and select “Media” when the overlay appears. Make sure it’s turned up to hear directions clearly.
3. Reconnect or Reconfigure Bluetooth Devices
Bluetooth can sometimes route Waze’s audio incorrectly, especially when connected to a car stereo or headphones. To fix potential audio routing issues:
- Make sure your Bluetooth device is correctly paired and connected.
- Check that Bluetooth audio settings on your car or headset are set to allow media audio, not just phone calls.
- On Waze, go to Settings > Voice & Sound and toggle the option “Play sound to phone speaker”. This can help override problematic Bluetooth connections.
If the audio comes through the phone after toggling this, the problem is likely within your Bluetooth config.
4. Test Directions Playback
Waze comes with an audio testing feature so you can confirm the voice navigation works. To use the test voice option:
- Go to Waze Settings > Voice & Sound.
- Select a voice if one isn’t set.
- Tap on the “Play” icon next to the voice selection to trigger a sample audio.
If the test doesn’t play, try restarting your phone or switching to a different voice and then testing again.
5. Close Background Apps That Might Interfere
Other apps like Spotify, YouTube Music, or podcast players may compete for audio output. If they’re running in the background, Waze audio might be suppressed or interrupted.
Force close these apps while using Waze:
- Open the app switcher on your device.
- Swipe away or close apps that play audio or access Bluetooth.
- Return to Waze and check if sound is functioning.
It’s also wise to pause any music or videos playing during your navigation if audio clarity is very important.
6. Restart Your Smartphone
Sometimes simply restarting your device is enough to fix an issue like Waze audio not working. A fresh reboot clears background processes and resets audio channels that may be clogged or misrouted.
Steps:
- Hold down the power button until the restart menu appears.
- Tap Restart and wait for the phone to reboot.
- Open Waze and check your audio again.
7. Clear the App’s Cache (Android Only)
If you’re using an Android device, app cache corruption can sometimes lead to audio errors. Clearing the cache can refresh the app without uninstalling it:
- Navigate to Settings > Apps > Waze.
- Tap Storage & cache.
- Tap Clear cache. Avoid selecting “Clear Data” unless you’re okay with resetting all Waze settings.
After clearing the cache, reopen the app and test the audio system.
8. Update or Reinstall Waze
Outdated app versions can contain bugs or compatibility issues with newer OS versions. Ensure that Waze is fully updated via your device’s app store.
To update or reinstall:
- Open the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Search for “Waze” and tap Update if available.
- If no update is available and issues persist, Uninstall and reinstall the app.
Reinstalling ensures all app files and settings are clean and fully compatible with your phone.
9. Check for System Software Updates
A bug in the device’s operating system can also interfere with how apps like Waze output sound. Keeping your iOS or Android up to date is essential for compatibility.
To check:
- Go to Settings > System > Software Update (Android) or Settings > General > Software Update (iOS).
- If an update is available, download and install it before retesting Waze.
Always back up your important data before performing updates, especially major ones.
10. Contact Waze Support or Consult Forums
If none of the above steps worked, there might be an issue specific to your device model or configuration. Waze has a support team and an active user forum where developers and users often troubleshoot rare issues.
- Visit Waze Support.
- Search the forums or post your issue for personalized advice.
Make sure to include as many details as you can when seeking help—device model, OS version, app version, and what you’ve tried so far.
Final Thoughts
Audio issues in Waze may seem daunting, but they’re usually caused by minor settings or connectivity errors. From checking the in-app speaker, to reconfiguring Bluetooth and updating the app, there are multiple proven methods to restore voice commands. Following this complete guide will likely solve your issue and get you safely back on the road with fully functioning audio directions.
Waze audio not working can be frustrating—but with patience and thorough troubleshooting, the problem is almost always fixable.
