To connect an Onn Wireless FM Transmitter, you need to complete two main steps: tuning the transmitter and your car radio to the same unused FM frequency, and then pairing your phone via Bluetooth. This process allows you to play music and make hands-free calls through your car's speakers, making FM transmitters for cars a simple and effective solution for adding modern connectivity to any vehicle.
How to connect your Onn Wireless FM Transmitter
Connecting your Onn Wireless FM Transmitter involves two straightforward steps: first, you must set the transmitter and your car radio to the same FM frequency, and second, you must pair your smartphone via Bluetooth. Once both connections are made, any audio from your phone will play through your car's stereo system.
Step 1: Power on the transmitter
Insert the transmitter into your vehicle's 12V or 24V accessory port to power it on. The transmitter's display may show the vehicle battery voltage upon initial power-on. Upon initial power-on, the transmitter's display may show the vehicle battery voltage, the current FM station, and the Bluetooth connection status.
Step 2: Find an unused FM frequency
First, tune your car radio to an unused FM channel, ideally one with no active broadcast. The typical FM frequency range available for tuning on these devices is from FM 88.1 to 107.9 MHz. Choosing a channel with no existing radio station broadcasting will minimize interference and provide the clearest audio quality.
Step 3: Set the transmitter to the same frequency
Press the 'CH' button on the transmitter. Then, use the Forward or Reverse buttons on the transmitter to adjust its FM frequency to match the unused channel selected on your car radio. For some specific models, such as the Onn model PFM3-1002, you must long press the middle multifunction button until the station's display blinks. Then, single press the rewind or forward button to select an unused station, or press and hold the rewind or forward button for fast search mode. Single press the middle multifunction button to confirm the selection.
Step 4: Pair your phone via Bluetooth
To pair a Bluetooth device, activate the Bluetooth function on your smartphone or other audio device. During the first-time Bluetooth setup, the Bluetooth indicator on the transmitter will flash, indicating it is in "Pairing Mode". In your device's Bluetooth settings, look for and connect to "onn. Car FM Transmitter". For some specific models, such as the Onn 100130570, the Bluetooth pairing name is "onn. Voice Bluetooth FM". For model PFM3-1002, the Bluetooth name is "PFM3-1002". For models 100079037 and 2AR6E-100079037, the Bluetooth name may appear as 'one. Car FM Transmitter'. For certain models, a voice confirmation will be provided once a Bluetooth connection is successfully established.
How to play music and handle calls
Once successfully connected via Bluetooth, audio from your paired device will play through your car stereo. The transmitter also supports playing music directly from a USB drive or a TF (MicroSD) card inserted into its dedicated slots. For hands-free calling, press the dedicated hands-free button on the transmitter once to answer or end a phone call.
Important safety tips
Unplug the device when not in use to prevent vehicle battery drain. Do not operate the device while driving; set it up and pair your smartphone before starting your journey to avoid distraction. Keep the device away from water, damp, or high-temperature environments to prevent fire or electrical shock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge my phone while using the FM transmitter?
Yes. Many Onn Wireless FM Transmitters feature multiple USB charging ports, which can include a 5V/1A port, a 3.1A USB port, and a USB Type-C port for charging devices while you play audio.
Why is there static or interference on my chosen FM frequency?
Static usually means a local radio station is broadcasting on or very close to your chosen frequency. Try tuning both the transmitter and your car radio to a different unused channel within the 88.1 to 107.9 MHz range until you find a clear signal.
Do I need an audio cable to connect my phone?
No. The Onn Wireless FM Transmitter connects to your phone wirelessly via Bluetooth. You do not need an auxiliary cable for audio playback or hands-free calling.
Will the transmitter work in a 24V vehicle?
Yes. The input voltage for the transmitter is 12-24V DC, so it is compatible with both standard 12V car systems and 24V systems found in some trucks and commercial vehicles.
For the wider topic, see FM transmitters for cars.
