Your smartphone isn’t the sole device that may require an update when Android Auto encounters connectivity issues. While the initial troubleshooting steps often center around the phone and its connection, such as inspecting the cable, restarting the device, or ensuring that Android Auto is up to date, there may be another culprit at play—the car’s infotainment system.
It’s essential to recognize that your vehicle’s dashboard also runs on software, and if this software is outdated, it can lead to problems with Android Auto connectivity. Google recommends restarting the infotainment system and, for those using aftermarket units like Pioneer or Kenwood, checking the manufacturer’s website for any available firmware updates.
Android Auto’s functionality hinges on the seamless interaction between the phone and the car. If troubleshooting efforts focused solely on the phone yield no results—despite changing cables or restarting the device—it’s time to turn attention to the car’s software.
Your car might need an update as well
Automakers are increasingly rolling out infotainment updates designed to enhance the performance of Android Auto. For instance, Hyundai’s February 2026 update for ccNC-equipped vehicles in Europe introduced improved wireless connectivity for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with quicker reconnection capabilities and automatic restoration after a restart. Chevrolet emphasizes the importance of updating both the phone and vehicle software as the first step in troubleshooting when Android Auto fails to connect.
The method for installing updates varies by manufacturer. Some systems can download software directly via Wi-Fi, while others require a USB drive or SD card. In certain cases, dealer assistance may be necessary. For example, Uconnect allows supported systems to connect to Wi-Fi through the vehicle’s settings menu.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to updating infotainment firmware. Begin by visiting your car manufacturer’s website and following the specific instructions for your infotainment system. If prompted, provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or model details. Should the process seem unclear, or if the manufacturer indicates that a dealer must perform the installation, opting for dealer assistance is advisable to avoid complications.
A firmware update won’t fix every Android Auto problem
It’s important to note that a firmware update may not resolve every issue with Android Auto. If connectivity problems arise immediately following a phone or Android Auto update, it’s wise to consult Google’s Android Auto Known Issues page before making any changes to the car’s software. Google has recently addressed connection issues affecting specific models, such as the Pixel 10 and Samsung S26, while still investigating concerns with the S25. This information can guide you in determining whether the phone or the car should be the focus of your troubleshooting efforts first.
Before altering the car’s software, verify compatibility, ensure that Android Auto is enabled in the infotainment system, and test the USB connection. For wired connections, Google recommends using a high-quality cable that is no longer than three feet.
Updating the car’s software serves as a troubleshooting measure rather than a guaranteed solution. If Android Auto was functioning correctly prior to recent updates and standard phone-side troubleshooting has proven ineffective, checking for newer infotainment software is a prudent step before scheduling a service appointment.
However, firmware updates do have their limitations. They cannot enable Android Auto on hardware that lacks support for it from the outset. For instance, Uconnect specifies that its systems cannot be upgraded to add Android Auto or CarPlay if they were not originally designed for it, although Uconnect 5 and select Uconnect 4 and 4C systems do include both functionalities.
