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Android Auto makes your drive smoother with features such as maps, music, calls, voice control, almost everything all without even need for picking up your phone. But when it stops working, it’s a real headache.
Sometimes, Android Auto not working is due to usually a mix of compatibility mismatches, software bugs, poor cable/connection, or settings gone wrong. By systematically checking compatibility, cables, settings, updates, and permissions, you can usually pinpoint & fix the root cause. Whether your car won’t detect your phone, the app crashes, or you see a “connection error,” here’s a full guide with clear steps to help you fix Android Auto once and for all.
Check Compatibility & System Requirements
First up, confirm that your car’s infotainment system and your phone both support Android Auto. Not every vehicle or USB port is compatible. Google maintains a vehicle compatibility list. Also, make sure your phone runs at least Android 9—or whatever minimum your device requires for Android Auto support.
Restart Your Phone & Car System
A simple reboot often clears software glitches. Turn your phone off and on. If your car’s head unit or infotainment system supports a reboot or reset, do that too. After restarting, try connecting Android Auto again.
Check USB Cable or Wireless Setup
If you’re using a wired connection, use a high-quality USB data cable (not a charge-only one). Try swapping cables or using a different USB port to rule out damage. For wireless Android Auto, make sure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled and properly paired with your car’s system.
Update the System & Android Auto App
Outdated software often causes Android Auto not working issues. Go to Settings → System → Software update and install any updates. Then open Google Play Store and update the Android Auto app (or related services). Mismatched versions are a common root of connection errors.
Tweak Android Auto Settings on Phone
Go to Settings → Connected devices → Connection preferences → Android Auto. Make sure “Start Android automatically” is set to Always, and enable “Start while locked” if available. Also check “Previously connected cars”—if your car is listed under “Rejected cars,” remove it to allow fresh pairing attempts.
Forget & Reconnect the Car
If pairing is corrupted, use the “Forget all cars” or similar option in Android Auto settings. Then reconnect by plugging in or pairing, follow on-screen prompts, and grant permissions. This often solves pairing mismatch issues.
Clear Cache / Data of Android Auto
Open Settings → Apps → Android Auto → Storage. Tap “Clear Cache.” If that doesn’t help, you can also “Clear Data” or “Clear Storage” (which resets the app). Relaunch Android Auto and test connection again.
Uninstall & Reinstall the App
If the cache/data reset didn’t fix it, uninstall Android Auto, reboot your phone, then reinstall it from Play Store. This gives you a clean, fresh install that often resolves hidden conflicts.
Test on Another Car / Head Unit
If possible, try your phone in a different Android Auto–compatible car. If it works there, the issue is likely in your car’s head unit or wiring. If it still fails, the issue is more likely on the phone side—cable, settings, or app.
Permissions, Firmware & Advanced Checks
Make sure the app has required permissions—USB access, contacts, notifications, microphone. Also check your car’s head unit firmware—manufacturers sometimes release patches that fix Android Auto connection issues. Last, make sure your car’s system settings haven’t disabled Android Auto support.
Report the Issue & Seek Help
If nothing else works, use Help & Feedback within the Android Auto app to report your issue. Include your phone model, Android version, car make/model, and the steps you’ve taken. Also check community forums and device-specific help threads—often someone with the same setup has a trick.
Android Auto connection issue doesn’t have to be permanent. By going through these steps one by one i.e. compatibility, cables, settings, app resets you’ll likely restore functionality. If you still facing issue do let us know your exact issue in the comment box and we will you guide you through.
