I’ve recently been having issues with two different VPN providers on an iPhone. A few weeks ago one VPN app would show that it’s connected to a server but apps stopped working like they were unable to connect to the internet. This is over both WiFi and cellular.
I then started using a different VPN app, which seemed to be working fine until more recently. The connections are hit or miss. It’ll connect and then stop working after a few minutes or it won’t connect to a server at all. Another odd thing is that I can no longer connect to CarPlay (via usb) while on this vpn. The dash unit will show the phone connected but I can’t launch CarPlay until after I disable the VPN.
I’ve tried troubleshooting this for the past week and can’t figure it out. Both providers were working properly for the past year until recently. They also still both work correctly on an iPad.
Bummer about the VPN glitch on your iPhone! 
First, try restarting your device. If that doesn’t do the trick, check if your VPN app needs an update. Also, ensure your iOS is up-to-date. If all else fails, delete and reinstall the VPN app. Hope one of these quick fixes does the job! 