Fix Android Auto Not Working: Step-by-Step Guide

What You’ll Need

Your Android phone with Android Auto installed (it’s built into most recent phones)
A compatible car or head unit that supports Android Auto
A good-quality USB cable (if using a wired connection)
Access to your phone’s Settings and the Android Auto app settings

Step-by-Step

Check compatibility and basics. Make sure your phone and car both support Android Auto. Your phone should run Android 10 or higher, and your car’s infotainment system should have Android Auto as an option. Also, check that your phone’s screen is unlocked and the car is in Park (if required).
Restart your phone and car. A simple restart clears temporary glitches. Turn off your phone completely, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on. Also, restart your car’s infotainment system if possible (often by turning the car off and on again).
Try a different USB cable and port. For wired connections, a faulty or low-quality cable is the #1 cause of Android Auto issues. Use the cable that came with your phone or a high-quality, short cable. Try a different USB port in your car (if available).
Enable USB debugging (for wired connections). On your phone, go to Settings > About Phone and tap “Build Number” seven times to enable Developer Options. Then go to Settings > Developer Options and enable “USB Debugging.” This often helps Android Auto recognize the connection.
Clear the Android Auto app’s cache and data. Go to Settings > Apps > Android Auto > Storage and tap “Clear Cache” and “Clear Storage.” This resets the app’s settings and often fixes crashes or freezes. You’ll need to set up Android Auto again after this.
Update the Android Auto app and your phone’s software. Go to the Google Play Store, search for Android Auto, and tap “Update” if available. Also, check for system updates on your phone: Settings > System > System Update.
Re-pair Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (for wireless Android Auto). If you’re using wireless Android Auto, go to your phone’s Bluetooth settings, forget your car’s Bluetooth connection, and then re-pair it. Also, make sure your phone’s Wi-Fi is enabled and connected to your car’s Wi-Fi network (if required).
Reset your car’s infotainment system. If nothing else works, try resetting your car’s head unit to factory settings. This is usually done through the car’s settings menu or by pressing a small reset button (check your car’s manual). This will erase your car’s saved settings, so use it as a last resort.

Common Mistakes

Using a low-quality or damaged USB cable. Many USB cables are charge-only and don’t support data transfer. Always use a high-quality cable that supports data.
Not unlocking your phone. Android Auto often won’t connect if your phone’s screen is locked. Make sure your phone is unlocked and the screen is on when you plug it in.
Ignoring app permissions. Android Auto needs certain permissions (like location and phone) to work. Make sure all permissions are granted in the Android Auto app settings.
Forgetting to update. Both the Android Auto app and your phone’s operating system need to be up to date. Outdated software can cause compatibility issues.

Tips

Use a short, high-quality cable. Shorter cables are less likely to have resistance issues and are more reliable for data transfer.
Clean your phone’s charging port. Dust and lint in the port can prevent a proper connection. Use a dry, soft brush or compressed air to clean it gently.
Set Android Auto to start automatically. In the Android Auto app settings, you can choose to have it launch automatically when you connect to your car’s Bluetooth. This saves time.
Use voice commands. Once connected, use “Hey Google” to make calls, send texts, and get directions without touching your phone.

Troubleshooting

If you’ve followed the steps and Android Auto still isn’t working, try these additional checks:

Check if your car’s USB port is working. Try connecting your phone to the USB port and see if it charges. If it doesn’t, the port may be faulty.
Check if other apps are interfering. Some apps (like battery savers or VPNs) can block Android Auto. Try temporarily disabling them.
Try a different phone. If you have another Android phone, see if it connects. This will tell you if the problem is with your phone or your car.
Check the Android Auto app’s status. Go to the Google Play Store and see if the app has any known issues or recent reviews mentioning problems.
Contact your car’s manufacturer. If your car’s infotainment system is not compatible or has a known issue, the manufacturer may have a software update or fix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Android Auto keep disconnecting?

Intermittent disconnections are usually caused by a faulty USB cable, a loose connection, or a dirty charging port. Try a new cable and clean your phone’s port.

How do I update Android Auto?

Open the Google Play Store, search for “Android Auto,” and tap “Update” if it’s available. You can also enable auto-update for the app.

Why is Android Auto not showing on my car’s screen?

Make sure your car supports Android Auto and that it’s enabled in the car’s settings. Also, check that your phone’s Android Auto app is set up and that you’ve granted all necessary permissions.

Can I use Android Auto wirelessly?

Yes, if your car and phone support wireless Android Auto. You’ll need to connect via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Check your car’s manual for specific instructions.

Why is Android Auto not responding to touch?

This could be a temporary glitch. Try disconnecting and reconnecting your phone, or restarting your car’s infotainment system. If the problem persists, clear the Android Auto app’s cache.

Why is my phone not charging while using Android Auto?

If your phone is not charging, the USB cable may be charge-only or the port may not provide enough power. Try a different cable or use a car charger while connected.

Sources: Google Android Help. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.