Can I upgrade my car to Android Auto?

You can often add Android Auto to your vehicle, but it depends on the car’s hardware. If the factory head unit already supports Android Auto (via a software update or built-in functionality), you can enable it. If not, you can install an aftermarket head unit that supports Android Auto (wired or wireless). Replacing the infotainment with an Android Automotive OS-based unit is a more extensive, pricier option. The right path depends on your car’s make, model year, and the compatibility of its existing electronics.

What Android Auto is and how it differs from Android Automotive OS

Android Auto is a smartphone-based projection system that mirrors compatible apps from your Android phone to the car’s display, typically controlled via the car’s touchscreen, steering wheel buttons, or voice. Android Automotive OS (AAOS) is a full operating system that runs directly on the head unit itself, providing apps, maps, and features without requiring a phone for many functions. Some new cars ship with AAOS or support AAOS-based head units from the aftermarket, offering a more integrated experience than Android Auto projection alone.

Can you upgrade your car to Android Auto?

Here are the main avenues people pursue to add Android Auto to a vehicle, depending on the car's existing hardware and budget.

• Check if your factory system supports Android Auto via an official update: visit the manufacturer’s website, consult the owner's manual, or ask a dealer to determine compatibility and any required software versions.


• Confirm whether the system supports wired or wireless Android Auto: some head units require a USB connection, while others can connect over Wi‑Fi if the hardware supports it.


• Follow the official upgrade process if available: install the latest infotainment software update or enable Android Auto in settings, and ensure your Android phone meets the minimum requirements (Android 6.0+ with the Android Auto app or built-in support).

If your car supports Android Auto via the factory system, these steps are typically straightforward and low-cost beyond any service visit.

If your car doesn’t offer Android Auto through the factory system, an aftermarket head unit is the most common retrofit path.

• Choose an aftermarket head unit that explicitly supports Android Auto (common brands include Pioneer, Kenwood, Sony, Alpine, and JVC). Look for both Android Auto compatibility and whether wireless projection is offered.


• Check dash fitment and wiring: determine if your car uses 1‑DIN or 2‑DIN configurations, and verify that you’ll have matching mounting kits, harnesses, and steering-wheel control adapters.


• Assess power, audio, and camera integrations: ensure the unit can handle your car’s electrical system, speakers, backup camera, and, if applicable, the factory amplifier and subwoofers.


• Understand installation requirements and costs: installation complexity varies; professional installation is often recommended to preserve safety features and dash aesthetics; include costs for dash kit and any required adapters.

Aftermarket head units can bring Android Auto to almost any car, but installation quality and warranty implications should be considered.

If you’re seeking a deeper integration, some enthusiasts pursue Android Automotive OS (AAOS) options by replacing the head unit with an AAOS-based system.

• AAOS means the head unit runs Android Automotive OS directly, with apps and navigation built into the unit, not solely projected from your phone.


• Cost and complexity: replacing with an AAOS-based unit is usually more expensive and invasive than a standard Android Auto retrofit and may require custom wiring and CAN-bus interfaces.


• Compatibility and features: AAOS units can offer Google apps, maps, music, and voice control, but OEM integration (steering wheel controls, Bluetooth, and vehicle sensors) varies by unit and car model.


• Warranty and resale considerations: aftermarket AAOS replacements can affect manufacturer warranties and resale value; confirm with the installer and check warranty terms.


• Installation considerations: achieving a clean fit requires attention to dash kit compatibility, HVAC control integration, antenna adapters, and possible 3‑rd party modules for vehicle systems.

AAOS replacements provide a more native-feel Android experience but come with higher cost, risk, and potential loss of some OEM features.

What to consider before upgrading

Budget, desired level of integration, and potential impacts on warranty and resale should guide your choice. If you’re not comfortable with car electronics, professional installation is strongly recommended, especially for steering-wheel controls, backup cameras, and CAN-bus interfaces. Verify compatibility for your specific make, model, and year, and ask about return/warranty policies on any aftermarket components.

Safety and warranty considerations

Modifying the infotainment system can affect your vehicle’s warranty and, in some cases, its resale value. Keep documentation of parts and installation work, and check with your dealer or manufacturer about any implications for existing warranties or service plans.

Summary

Upgrading to Android Auto is feasible for most modern cars through official factory updates, or more broadly via aftermarket head units. For a subset of vehicles, a full Android Automotive OS replacement offers the most integrated experience but at higher cost and complexity. Assess your car’s compatibility, your budget, and how you want to interact with apps and navigation, then decide between a simple factory update, an aftermarket head unit, or a full AAOS replacement. If in doubt, consult a qualified installer or your dealership to identify the best path for your vehicle.

Is it possible to install Android Auto on any car?

Android Auto works with over 500 models, with more on the way. Check our vehicle and stereo list to make sure your car is compatible. Also, see if your phone meets the requirements.

How can I convert my car to Android Auto?

You can make your car Android Auto compatible by connecting your phone to an existing car display via USB, setting up wireless Android Auto on a compatible car, or installing an aftermarket head unit or wireless adapter. For a wired connection, simply plug your phone into the car's USB port; for wireless, pair your phone with the car's Bluetooth first. 
This video explains how to connect your phone to your car for Android Auto: 42sCars UnlockedYouTube · Sep 16, 2025
For cars with an existing display

• Wired connection:
  1. Plug your phone into the car's USB port using a high-quality USB cable. 
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions on your phone and the car's display to set up the connection. 
  3. Your phone may need to update the Android Auto app or related apps like Google Maps. 
• Wireless connection:
  1. Make sure your car's display supports wireless Android Auto. 
  2. On your phone, go to Bluetooth settings and pair it with your car's Bluetooth system. 
  3. Once paired, the car may automatically prompt you to start Android Auto. 
  4. Follow any on-screen prompts on both the phone and the car's display to complete the setup. 

For older cars without a built-in screen

• Install an aftermarket head unit: This is a more involved process that replaces your existing car stereo with a new one that has Android Auto built-in. 
• Use a wireless adapter:
  1. Purchase a wireless Android Auto adapter (e.g., Carlinkit, Ottocast).
  2. Connect the adapter to your car's USB port. 
  3. Follow the adapter's instructions, which usually involves pairing your phone to the adapter via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. 
• Use a phone mount and the Android Auto app: 
  1. Use a smartphone mount to position your phone in a safe and visible location.
  2. Download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store and open it. 
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions on your phone to set up the app, which will display on your phone's screen. 

Can I add Android Auto to my car if I don't have it?

You can add Android Auto to any car by using an external display, a wireless adapter, or replacing the car's head unit. The simplest option is a portable display that mounts on the dashboard, with the device providing its own screen and connecting to your phone via Bluetooth and to your car's audio system via a cigarette lighter adapter, AUX cable, or FM transmission. More integrated solutions include a wireless adapter that plugs into your car's existing USB port, or a new aftermarket head unit which can be more complex to install. 
This video demonstrates how to install a portable display with Android Auto in your car: 57sGarreth EvansYouTube · Aug 15, 2025
Methods for adding Android Auto
1. Portable dashboard display 

• What it is: A standalone device that includes its own screen, which you mount on your dashboard. 
• How it works: The device connects to your phone wirelessly via Bluetooth. It then transmits audio to your car's stereo through either an AUX cable, a Bluetooth connection to the car's system, or an FM transmitter that plays audio on a chosen radio frequency. 
• Pros: Easy to install, can be moved between vehicles, and does not require modifying your car's existing head unit. 
• Cons: It can look less integrated than other solutions and the sound quality depends on your car's audio output method. 

2. Wireless adapter

• What it is: A small device that plugs into your car's existing USB port. 
• How it works: It creates a wireless link between your phone and your car's compatible infotainment system, eliminating the need for a USB cable after the initial setup. 
• Pros: Provides a wireless connection for cars that already have a wired Android Auto-compatible head unit. 
• Cons: Requires your car's head unit to already be compatible with Android Auto. 

3. Replace the head unit 

• What it is: A new, aftermarket stereo system that has Android Auto built-in. 
• How it works: You replace your car's existing radio with the new unit. This can involve simple plug-and-play options for modern cars, or more complex wiring and dashboard modifications for older vehicles. 
• Pros: Offers a fully integrated, seamless experience and can include other features like a larger screen or improved sound quality. 
• Cons: This is the most expensive and complex option, often requiring professional installation and significant effort to install yourself. 

You can watch this video to learn about replacing the head unit in your car: 56sCarGuy11YouTube · Sep 30, 2023

Can you upgrade Android Auto in a car?

Yes, you can update Android Auto, but it's done through your phone, not directly in the car. Updates are typically downloaded automatically through the Google Play Store, but if needed, you can manually update the app by going to the Play Store, searching for "Android Auto," and tapping "Update" if available. 
This video shows how to update Android Auto on your phone: 1mTrevor NaceYouTube · Jun 14, 2025
How to update Android Auto on your phone

1. For automatic updates:
   • Ensure auto-updates are enabled in the Google Play Store settings. 
   • You can choose to update over Wi-Fi only, over any network, or not at all. 
2. For manual updates:
   • Open the Google Play Store app on your phone. 
   • Search for "Android Auto" in the search bar. 
   • Select the Android Auto app from the results. 
   • If an update is available, you will see an "Update" button. Tap it to install the latest version. 

What to do if you still have issues

• Check your phone's OS: Sometimes, a system update is required for the app to work correctly. You can check for and install Android system updates in your phone's Settings > System > Software updates. 
• Update or replace your USB cable: A high-quality, short USB cable is essential for a stable connection. If you're having issues, try a new or different cable. 
• Contact your car manufacturer: To check if your car's infotainment system itself has any available software updates or to confirm compatibility, you may need to contact the vehicle manufacturer.