How do I get navigation on my Toyota?

If you own a Toyota vehicle and want to add navigation capabilities, there are a few options available to you. You can either install an aftermarket navigation system or use your smartphone's navigation app with your Toyota's infotainment system. In this article, we'll explore both of these solutions in detail.

Installing an Aftermarket Navigation System

One way to get navigation on your Toyota is to install an aftermarket navigation system. This involves replacing your Toyota's factory-installed infotainment system with a new, third-party unit that includes built-in navigation features. Some key steps to consider when installing an aftermarket navigation system include:

• Choosing a compatible system that fits your Toyota's make, model, and year


• Ensuring the new system integrates seamlessly with your Toyota's existing features, such as audio and climate controls


• Hiring a professional installer to handle the physical installation and wiring


• Updating the new system's maps and software to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date navigation experience

Installing an aftermarket navigation system can be a more involved process, but it can provide a more integrated and feature-rich navigation experience compared to using a smartphone app.

Using Smartphone Navigation with Your Toyota

Another option for getting navigation on your Toyota is to use your smartphone's navigation app and connect it to your Toyota's infotainment system. Many Toyota models come equipped with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which allow you to mirror your smartphone's screen and access its apps, including navigation, directly on your Toyota's display. To use this method, you'll need to:

• Ensure your Toyota is compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto


• Connect your smartphone to your Toyota's infotainment system using a USB cable or wireless connection


• Download and set up your preferred navigation app, such as Google Maps or Apple Maps


• Adjust your Toyota's settings to allow for seamless integration with your smartphone's navigation app

Using your smartphone's navigation app with your Toyota's infotainment system can be a more cost-effective and convenient option, as you don't need to install a separate navigation system. However, the experience may not be as integrated or feature-rich as a dedicated aftermarket navigation system.

Ultimately, the choice between installing an aftermarket navigation system or using your smartphone's navigation app will depend on your specific needs, budget, and the capabilities of your Toyota model. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each option to determine the best solution for your driving needs.

How do I get Google Maps onto my car screen?

You can get Google Maps on your car screen by connecting your phone using Android Auto (for Android phones) or Apple CarPlay (for iPhones), or by using a built-in Google app if your car has it. The most common method is connecting your smartphone, either via a USB cable or wirelessly via Bluetooth, and the Android Auto or Apple CarPlay interface will appear on your car's display, giving you access to Google Maps. 
Using Android Auto

1. Check compatibility: Ensure your Android phone (Android 6.0 or later) and car are compatible with Android Auto. 
2. Connect your phone: Use a high-quality USB cable to connect your phone to the car's USB port for a wired connection. For wireless, ensure both your phone and car's Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are on and follow the pairing instructions. 
3. Start the app: The Android Auto interface should appear on your car's infotainment screen. Tap the Google Maps app icon to start using it. 

This video explains how to connect Google Maps to a car using Android Auto: 48sCNETYouTube · Aug 2, 2025
Using Apple CarPlay

1. Check compatibility: Confirm your car is compatible with Apple CarPlay. 
2. Connect your iPhone: Connect your iPhone to the car using a USB cable or a wireless connection, depending on your car's setup. 
3. Enable CarPlay: You may need to enable CarPlay through your car's infotainment system or a button on your steering wheel. 
4. Open Google Maps: The CarPlay interface will appear on the car's screen, and you can then select the Google Maps app. 

If your car has a built-in Google app

1. Start your car: Ensure the car is in park for setup. 
2. Open Google apps: On your car's screen, look for and tap a Google app like Google Play or Google Assistant. 
3. Sign in: Follow the prompts to sign in to your Google Account, often by scanning a QR code with your phone. 
4. Use Google Maps: Once signed in, you can open the Google Maps app directly from your car's home screen. 

Does Toyota have a built-in navigation system?

In. And for the best user experience regularly wipe down the touchcreen with a clean microfiber cloth. There are a few options to search for destinations.

Does Toyota Drive Connect include navigation?

Drive Connect * is a great way to stay connected on the road. With up-to-date navigation, live-agent navigation assistance and a seamless virtual assistant, you won't need to worry about getting lost. Remote Connect * is also included.

How do I get Google Maps on my Toyota car screen?

To get Google Maps on your Toyota car screen, connect your phone using Android Auto (for Android phones) or Apple CarPlay (for iPhones) via a USB cable or wirelessly. On your phone, download the respective app, connect it to the car's USB port or through Bluetooth, and follow the on-screen prompts on both your phone and car display to enable and launch the interface. Some newer Toyota models may have Google Maps built-in, which can be accessed directly from the car's home screen after setup. 
Wired connection using Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
This video demonstrates how to connect your phone to your Toyota's system using Android Auto: 1mToyota USAYouTube · Dec 15, 2020

1. Download the app: If you have an Android phone, ensure you have Android Auto installed from the Google Play Store. For iPhones, make sure you have the latest version of iOS, as CarPlay is a built-in feature. 
2. Connect your phone: Plug your phone into the car's USB data port (charging-only cables will not work). 
3. Enable Android Auto/Apple CarPlay: Follow the prompts on both your phone and your car's infotainment screen to grant permissions and enable the connection. You may need to turn on the feature in your car's "Settings" or "Setup" menu first. 
4. Start navigation: Once connected, the Android Auto or Apple CarPlay interface will appear on your car's screen, giving you access to Google Maps. 

Wireless connection using Bluetooth 
You can watch this video to learn how to connect your phone's audio through Bluetooth: 56sThink TutorialYouTube · Apr 15, 2025

1. Pair your phone: Go to your phone's Bluetooth settings and pair it with your car's system. 
2. Open Google Maps: Launch the Google Maps app on your phone. 
3. Adjust navigation settings: In the Google Maps settings, find the "Navigation" section and enable "Play voice over Bluetooth" and "Play as Bluetooth phone call" to get the audio directions through your car speakers. 

Built-in Google Maps (some newer models) 
This video explains how to use Google Maps built into some Toyota models: 1mKenneth ValentonYouTube · Apr 21, 2022

1. Access the app: On your car's home screen, look for and tap the Google Maps app icon.
2. Start navigation: Search for your destination or select a suggested one to begin navigation directly on the car's screen. 

If you have trouble
This video shows how to fix some common issues with Google Maps in Android Auto: 33sWheelsJointYouTube · Dec 22, 2024

• Restart your phone. 
• Check that your USB cable is a data cable, not just for charging. 
• Unpair and re-pair your phone with the car. 
• Update your phone's operating system, the Android Auto/CarPlay app, and your car's infotainment software.