phone holder for car won't stick

If your car phone holder won’t stick, it’s usually fighting physics, dust, or a dashboard that’s bumpier than a corrugated track.

Clean both the suction cup and the mounting surface with isopropyl alcohol, ditch any silicone/Armor All residue, and let it dry; a tiny mist of water on the cup can help it seal.

Stick it to smooth glass or a supplied adhesive disc/dash pad rather than textured vinyl, and press firmly for 10–20 seconds; warm the cup slightly in winter to make it more pliable.

If the gel has gone tacky or dusty beyond redemption, replace the pad/cup—it’s a cheap fix.

Consider alternatives: vent or CD-slot mounts, or a quality 3M adhesive mount, and keep it clear of airbags and the driver’s line of sight (Aussie rules frown on windscreen clutter).

Finally, avoid parking it in direct sun for hours; heat turns even good suction into a quitters’ club.