How to Fix Android Auto Not Working

Android Auto is a great way to connect and use your phone in your car, but sometimes this feature doesn't work well. In the article below, Quantrimang will introduce you to some tips to fix Android Auto not working, whether on your phone or on your car's screen.

• New features of Android Auto

1. Restart your phone

When Android Auto crashes, hopefully it's just a temporary glitch caused by apps on your phone. If this is the case, you should restart your phone to get Android Auto working properly.

On most devices, you can hold the power button until the shutdown menu appears. Select Restart if it’s available, or press Shut Down and then turn your device back on after a minute or two. Then try using Android Auto to see if the issue is resolved.

2. Update your phone and Android Auto app

If Android Auto works but suddenly stops working, you may need to update your software to get it working properly. Go to Settings > System > Advanced > System Update to check your Android OS version, which can be installed on any device. The order of installation may vary depending on your device.

Then go to Play Store to update the Android Auto app. Software updates can help you fix bugs and security patches of older versions. Therefore, the app will work more smoothly.

3. Make sure your phone supports Android Auto

If Android Auto isn't working at all, you should check to see if your phone supports the feature. Google says it only supports devices running Android 6 Marshmallow or higher.

For Android 9 and earlier, you need to install the Android Auto app from the Play Store to use this feature. If you are using Android 10 or later, Android Auto is already built into your device. However, if you want to use the app on your phone screen, you still need to install the Android Auto for Phone Screens app on Android 10 or later.

Another thing to note is to check if the country you are born in supports Android Auto as this feature is not available in certain territories.

4. Make sure your car supports Android Auto

If you want to use Android Auto on your car's screen, you need a vehicle that is compatible with the feature. Even if your phone has a USB port , it doesn't necessarily support Android Auto.

Check Google's list of cars that support Android Auto and search for your car model. Generally, the feature is only available on 2016-2017 and newer models. To be sure, your owner's manual should mention Android Auto if it's supported.

If your car doesn't support Android Auto, you can buy a stereo that does. You'll find a list of supported models on the same Google page above; they're available for purchase from sites like Crutchfield.

5. Troubleshooting car infotainment systems

If you have no issues on your phone, you can test it directly in your car. Make sure to launch the Android Auto app from the main menu (where it appears will vary depending on your car). Many times the app won't open automatically, which can make you think Android Auto is faulty.

If there is a way to reset your car’s infotainment system, try that. You’ll need to check your owner’s manual for this, as it varies from car to car. If not, turn the car off for a while and then back on again.

Finally, check the manufacturer's website to see if there are any software updates available. Apply any available updates, then try connecting again.

6. Check the USB cable

When using Android Auto on your phone, you need a USB cable to connect your phone to your vehicle. If the cable is damaged or of poor quality, it can cause an unstable connection or refuse to connect. Replace the USB cable that best fits your device (the one that came with your phone is usually a safe bet). For best results, use a cable no longer than 6 feet (2 meters).

Note that if the cable is only for charging and doesn't support data transfer, it won't work with Android Auto. You can usually tell if the cable supports data transfer by the USB "trident" icon on the USB-A end.

Also, make sure your device's charging port is free of debris. Even with a good cable, your phone's port can get dirty, leading to connection problems. Use a flashlight to check for dust and other buildup, then gently clean it with a cotton swab or toothpick if necessary.

7. Check the car connection settings

Android Auto lets you connect to a variety of vehicles. If you're having trouble connecting to a new car, here are some troubleshooting options you can try.

To get to vehicle settings, open the Android Auto app, then swipe left on the menu and select Settings . On this screen, tap Previous connected cars .

This will show you a list of cars you've accepted or rejected to use with Android Auto. If you see your car listed as Rejected cars , remove it and reconnect.

By default, the Add new cars to Android Auto option is enabled. If this feature is disabled, your phone will only charge when plugged into a vehicle. Turn it back on when necessary.

If that still doesn't work, tap the Menu icon (three dots) in the top right corner and select Forget all cars . This will erase all connected vehicles so you can do a clean restart.

8. Clear cache and storage space for Android Auto

If Android Auto still isn't working at this point, you may want to clear all data in the Android Auto app and start over. Clear your data when your phone isn't connected.

Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all X apps > Android Auto > Storage & cache . Here select Clear cache , then reopen Android Auto to use.