How to Fix Google Maps Not Working in Android Auto
Applies to
Android Auto, Google Maps, Android phones, wired Android Auto, wireless Android Auto, compatible cars, and compatible infotainment systems
Last updated
9 July 2026
Problem
Google Maps is not working properly in Android Auto. It may not open on the car screen, fail to load directions, show the wrong location, freeze during navigation, or stop giving voice directions.
This can happen because of poor location permissions, mobile data problems, outdated apps, Android Auto issues, battery restrictions, or a weak GPS signal.
Solution
Check that Google Maps has location permission, update Android Auto and Google Maps, make sure mobile data is working, and restart the phone and car system. If the issue continues, clear the app cache and reconnect Android Auto.
Step by step instructions
Check that Google Maps works on your phone
Before troubleshooting Android Auto, open Google Maps directly on your phone.
Search for a nearby destination.
Start navigation.
Check whether the map loads and your location appears correctly.
If Google Maps does not work on the phone, fix that first. Android Auto can only show what the phone is able to provide.
Check mobile data
Google Maps needs an internet connection for route searches, traffic, and live updates.
Make sure mobile data is turned on.
Check that your phone has signal.
Turn off airplane mode if it is enabled.
If you are in an area with poor coverage, Google Maps may load slowly or fail to calculate a route.
Check location permission
Open Settings on your Android phone.
Go to Apps.
Find Google Maps.
Open Permissions.
Make sure location permission is allowed.
For best results, set location access to allow while using the app.
Also check that precise location is enabled if your phone offers that option.
Check Android Auto permissions
Open Settings on your phone.
Go to Apps.
Find Android Auto.
Open Permissions.
Make sure the required permissions are allowed.
Android Auto may need access to location, phone, notifications, microphone, and nearby devices depending on your Android version.
If location or nearby device permissions are denied, Maps may not work correctly in the car.
Restart your phone and car system
Disconnect your phone from the car.
Restart the phone.
Turn off the car fully.
Open and close the driver door if needed so the infotainment system powers down.
Start the car again.
Reconnect Android Auto and open Google Maps.
This can fix temporary crashes or loading problems.
Update Google Maps and Android Auto
Open the Google Play Store.
Update:
- Google Maps
- Android Auto
- Google Play services
After updating, restart your phone.
Outdated Google apps can cause navigation, voice, display, or connection problems in Android Auto.
Check if Google Maps is hidden in Android Auto
Open Settings on your phone.
Search for Android Auto.
Open Android Auto settings.
Look for Customise launcher.
Check that Google Maps is enabled and not hidden.
If Google Maps is not shown in the launcher, add it back or reset the launcher order.
Clear the Google Maps cache
Open Settings on your phone.
Go to Apps.
Find Google Maps.
Open Storage.
Select Clear cache.
Do not clear storage unless you are happy to reset app data and offline map settings.
After clearing the cache, restart the phone and try Android Auto again.
Check voice navigation settings
If Google Maps works but does not speak directions, open Google Maps on your phone.
Tap your profile picture or initials.
Open Settings.
Go to Navigation settings.
Check that guidance volume is not muted.
Choose normal or louder guidance volume if needed.
Also check that your car audio is not muted and that the media volume is turned up.
Check the car audio source
Sometimes Google Maps is working, but directions cannot be heard because the car is on the wrong audio source or volume level.
Start navigation in Android Auto.
When a direction should play, turn up the car volume.
Some cars use separate volume levels for media, calls, and navigation guidance.
Adjust the volume while the navigation voice is speaking if possible.
Check GPS signal
Google Maps may show the wrong location if your phone has a poor GPS signal.
Keep the phone somewhere it can receive a clear signal.
Avoid placing it inside a closed glovebox, deep storage compartment, or under heavy objects.
If your car has a wireless charging pad, test whether moving the phone improves location accuracy.
Download offline maps
If you often drive through areas with poor signal, download offline maps in Google Maps.
Open Google Maps on your phone.
Tap your profile picture or initials.
Select Offline maps.
Choose your area.
Download the map before travelling.
Offline maps can help navigation continue when mobile signal is weak, although live traffic and some search features may still need internet access.
Turn off battery restrictions
Battery saving settings can interfere with navigation.
Open Settings on your phone.
Go to Apps.
Find Google Maps.
Open battery settings.
Set Google Maps to unrestricted or not optimised if available.
Also check Android Auto, Google, and Google Play services.
Turn off battery saver while testing navigation.
Remove and reconnect Android Auto
If Google Maps still does not work in Android Auto, remove the car connection.
Open Settings on your phone.
Search for Android Auto.
Open Previously connected cars.
Remove your car.
Then delete your phone from the car’s connected device list.
Restart both the phone and car.
Set up Android Auto again.
Optional methods or tools
- Use offline maps in Google Maps for poor signal areas
- Update Google Maps, Android Auto, Google, and Google Play services
- Try Waze to check whether the issue is only with Google Maps
- Use wired Android Auto if wireless Android Auto is unstable
- Check your car infotainment system for software updates
Best practices or tips
- Start navigation before driving whenever possible
- Keep Google Maps and Android Auto updated
- Allow location permission for Google Maps
- Download offline maps before long journeys
- Keep your phone where it can maintain a good GPS signal
Google Maps problems in Android Auto are usually linked to permissions, mobile data, app updates, GPS signal, or audio settings. Checking whether Google Maps works normally on the phone is the best first step because Android Auto depends on the phone app working correctly.
Once Google Maps has location access, a stable connection, updated Google services, and suitable battery settings, it should work reliably on the car screen. For longer trips, offline maps and a clear GPS signal can help prevent navigation problems when mobile coverage is poor.
