The easiest and fastest way to connect a new device to Android Auto in your car is to plug it in with a USB cable. However, that means choosing the right cable, keeping it in your car, and cluttering your dashboard with wires. Instead, you can simply connect via Bluetooth. It’s pretty simple, but you’ll need to pair your phone or device with your car’s infotainment system before you can use Android Auto. The exact steps vary depending on the vehicle brand; Every automaker has a different process for pairing phones and mobile devices.
Before you do anything else, make sure Android Auto is updated to the latest version on your phone. You can search for it on Google Play or find the app page here. Next, pair your phone with your vehicle; if you’ve already done it, you can move on. You should be able to visit your car’s infotainment system settings and find a “Bluetooth” or wireless connections menu. In this menu, locate the option to pair your device; it will usually display on-screen instructions once you start the process. If your car supports Android Auto natively, Google explains that you can press and hold the voice commands button to bring up the necessary pairing function. Also make sure Bluetooth is turned on so your vehicle can find it.
When you first run it, Android Auto should automatically start and connect to your vehicle to display your phone’s screen. Otherwise, tap the Android Auto icon on your vehicle’s screen or open the app on your phone.
What to do when Bluetooth won’t connect or hangs
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There are actually many common issues with Android Auto that users encounter, ranging from compatibility issues to wireless connection issues, and some of these issues persist even when you plug in your phone via USB. If you encounter a problem and Bluetooth won’t connect, don’t give up just yet.
Before trying other options, make sure your phone and vehicle are compatible. Android Auto “works on 500 models,” but that doesn’t include all automotive infotainment systems. Your phone must also meet specific requirements. This includes a device running Android 11 or newer, access to mobile data, 5GHz Wi-Fi support on the phone, and several features enabled during setup, like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and location services.
If your car and phone are compatible, try turning Bluetooth off and on again at both access points: the vehicle and the phone. Bluetooth will always be unreliable due to potential interference, so expect it to be finicky. Other fixes include force stopping the Android Auto app on your phone, clearing the app cache, and restarting your phone. Restarting your vehicle’s infotainment system can also help, which can be as simple as turning it off and then back on. You can also try a wireless Android Auto adapter or dongle, which could improve the wireless connection between your vehicle’s system and your phone.
