Android Auto is a fantastic tool for integrating your Android device with your car’s infotainment system for seamless access to music, navigation, messaging, and other essential apps. It is your smart driving companion that helps you stay focused, connected, and entertained with the Google Assistant until you face Android Auto not connecting problems. In this guide, we’ll explore common reasons behind Android Auto connection issues and provide practical solutions to help you get back on the road with a connected Android Auto.
Common Reasons for Android Auto Not Connecting Issue
Before knowing a few practical solutions to fix, let’s know the common reasons that lead to Android Auto connection issues with your car’s Infotainment system. I can not pinpoint the exact reason behind your Android Auto connection issues, so it’s better to rule out each possible culprit one by one in the process of finding the cause and resolving the issue.
1. Faulty USB Cable
- My first suspect behind the Android Auto not connecting issue would be the USB cable.
- Ensure you are using a high-quality USB cable. Cheap or damaged cables may not provide a stable connection.
2. USB Port Incompatibility
- My next suspect would be the incompatibility of the USB port.
- Check if the USB port of your car is compatible with Android Auto. Some older models might not support the necessary data transfer speeds.
- Also, ensure your device’s port is in working condition.
3. Outdated Android Auto App
- I know this is a simple step, but often overlooked.
- Some users leave some of their apps not updated.
- So ensure your Android Auto app is up-to-date in the Play Store. Outdated versions may have compatibility issues.
4. Android Device Compatibility
- Confirm your phone is officially supported by Android Auto. Some older, lesser-known common models might not be fully compatible.
- This step is a must if it’s your first time connecting your Android device with your car’s infotainment system. Ensure both your car and phone support Android Auto.
- You can check your phone and car’s compatibility here https://support.google.com/androidauto/answer/6348019
5. Connection Conflicts
- Disable other connections on your Android device such as Bluetooth before connecting via USB.
- Because connections might get conflicted and can cause connection issues with other services.
6. Outdated Car Infotainment System
- Ensure your car’s infotainment system is up-to-date.
- If there are any firmware updates available for your car’s infotainment system, immediately update it to improve compatibility with Android Auto.
7. App Permissions
- Verify if Android Auto has access to necessary permissions on your phone.
- Check settings to ensure it has access to relevant data such as location and contacts etc.
8. Background Apps
- Check if any unnecessary apps are running in the background and stop them.
- Background running apps on your phone may interface with Android Auto and other services.
Fixes for Android Auto Not Connecting Issue
Now that we know a few common reasons behind the Android Auto not connecting issue, let’s know the possible solutions for the same.
1. Reboot Everything
- The first step for me in fixing every minor issue of any device/system is rebooting it.
- So, reboot everything including your phone, car, and infotainment system. This refreshes everything and may get the Android Auto working again.
- If it doesn’t fix the issue, proceed to the next fix.
2. Check The Connections
- Whether using a wireless connection or wired, ensure everything is connected well.
- If you are using a wired connection and suspect a USB cable, try using a different high-quality USB cable to see if it resolves the problem of Android Auto not connecting.
- If it is a wireless connection, restart the connection again. If the Android Auto connecting issue persists with multiple USB cables, then move on to the next fix.
3. USB Port Swap
- Similar to testing out multiple USB cables, test different USB ports in your car to rule out the faulty USB ports.
- Also, make sure all USB ports including the charging port of your phone are free of dust and rust.
4. Check App Settings:
- In Android Auto app settings, reset the app preferences, and ensure that the desired apps are selected.
5. Check the Paired Car Settings:
- Android Auto can be used with multiple cars, so make sure everything is right in the settings of the paired car.
- Check if the car you are trying to connect to is in the “Rejected Cars” list, or if the “Add new Cars to Android Auto” option is turned off.
- Your phone will only be able to charge but not connect with Android Auto if these two options are enabled. So, double-check the paired car settings to ensure everything is alright.
- If you are unsure about the paired car’s settings, tap the “Forget all cars” option in the app and try connecting it fresh.
6. Uninstall and Reinstall:
- Uninstall the Android Auto app, restart your phone, and then reinstall the app from the Google Play Store.
- It is better to clear the app’s cache before uninstalling it completely. You can clear the app’s cache in your phone’s settings >Apps > Android Auto > Storage > Cache.
7. Update Software:
- Ensure your phone’s operating system is up-to-date, as outdated software can lead to compatibility issues.
- To update your phone’s operating system, go to your phone’s settings > Software update > Download and Install.
8. Factory Reset (as a last resort):
- If all else fails, consider a factory reset on your car’s infotainment system, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting Android Auto connecting issues can be a process, but with patience and attention to detail, you can often identify and resolve the underlying problems. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be well on your way to enjoying a seamless Android Auto experience in your car. If the Android auto connection issue persists after performing all the fixes, reaching out to your car manufacturer’s support for additional guidance may be beneficial.
