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Verifiedintermediateest. 15 minutes

Fix Android Auto Not Connecting or Working in Car

Car display shows black screen, connection drops repeatedly, or phone charges but Android Auto will not launch. Fix USB and software glitches.

android-autousbcar-display

Confirmed working on: Android 12 · Android 13 · Android 14

Before you begin

Match the environmentUse this guide only for Android 12, Android 13, Android 14 or a clearly compatible setup.
Protect recoveryBack up important data and save encryption or account recovery keys before changing system state.
Know when to stopMake one change at a time and stop if the result differs from what the guide describes.

Problem overview

You plug your phone into your car’s USB port, but Android Auto does not launch on the infotainment screen. The phone might charge, but no data connection is established.

Common causes

  • Using a charge-only or damaged USB cable
  • Debris in the phone’s USB-C port
  • Android Auto app cache issues
  • Outdated car head unit firmware

Solution 1: Use a high-quality data cable

  1. Unplug your current cable.
  2. Procure a USB cable that is certified for data transfer and is under 1 meter (3 feet) long.
  3. Ensure the phone’s USB port is clean by gently picking out pocket lint with a non-metallic toothpick.
  4. Plug the phone in directly to the car’s primary data USB port (avoid USB hubs).

Solution 2: Clear Android Auto storage

  1. Go to Settings > Apps > See all apps.
  2. Find and tap Android Auto.
  3. Tap Storage & cache.
  4. Select Clear storage (this will reset your Android Auto layout and vehicle list).
  5. Open the Android Auto app on your phone and go through the initial setup prompts again before plugging it into the car.
Expert Tip

In the Android Auto settings on your phone, check the Previously connected cars menu and tap the three dots to Forget all cars, forcing a fresh connection.

Solution 3: Check USB connection mode

  1. Plug the phone into the car.
  2. Swipe down the notification shade on your phone.
  3. Tap the Charging this device via USB notification.
  4. Ensure the USB setting is set to File Transfer / Android Auto. If it defaults to ‘No data transfer’, the car cannot read the phone.

Confirm the result

  1. Repeat the exact action that originally triggered the problem.
  2. Confirm the original error or symptom is gone and no new warning has appeared.
  3. If the guide changed a driver, service, package, or system setting, restart once and test again.
  4. If the result is worse or unexpected, stop. Reverse only the last change using its documented restore option; if none is documented, use your backup or qualified support.

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