How to add Android Auto to a car that doesn t have Android Auto?

The practical way to add Android Auto to a car without built‑in support is to install an aftermarket head unit that explicitly supports Android Auto (wired or wireless). If your vehicle’s dashboard can’t display Android Auto, you can’t enable it through software alone. This article explains your options, what to consider, and how the installation typically works.

Understanding Android Auto and why your car might lack it

Android Auto is a smartphone projection system that mirrors compatible apps from your Android phone to your car’s infotainment display. It requires hardware support in the head unit or the car’s native system. Cars built before the feature existed or with non‑compatible infotainment software may not offer Android Auto, regardless of your phone’s capabilities.

Hardware support matters

There are two main pathways: a factory‑installed system in newer cars or an aftermarket head unit that you install. Wireless Android Auto requires the head unit to support built‑in Wi‑Fi and reliable pairing with your phone, while wired Android Auto uses a USB connection.

Region and software considerations

Availability and feature sets can vary by country and by vehicle generation. Always verify regional support, software updates, and compatibility with your phone’s Android version before purchasing hardware.

Practical paths to retrofit Android Auto

There are a few routes to bring Android Auto to a vehicle that lacks it. The most common and robust solution is to replace the factory head unit with an aftermarket model that supports Android Auto. Other options exist but come with limitations or caveats.

• Install an aftermarket Android Auto head unit (wired or wireless). These units replace the factory stereo, connect to the car through a wiring harness and antenna, and typically offer 7"–12" touchscreens, built‑in Android Auto, and often Apple CarPlay as well. Costs include the head unit, dash kit, wiring harness, and installation labor.


• Factory/OEM retrofit options. Some brands offer dealer‑installed infotainment upgrades that add Android Auto capability. Availability and price vary by model, region, and dealership. This route can be more expensive and less common than aftermarket options.


• Phone‑based mirroring and third‑party adapters. Some systems can mirror your phone’s screen to the car’s display, but this is not official Android Auto, may be unstable, and usually lacks full app compatibility and safety considerations.

Concluding paragraph: The tried‑and‑true path for most owners is an aftermarket head unit designed for Android Auto. OEM retrofit options exist but are not universal, and screen mirroring remains a fallback with potential drawbacks.

Installing an aftermarket Android Auto head unit: a step‑by‑step overview

If you opt for a retrofit, here is a high‑level outline of what installation entails. Exact steps vary by vehicle and head unit, and some cars require additional adapters for features like steering‑wheel controls or a backup camera.

1. Plan fitment and confirm dash size (Single DIN vs Double DIN) and required mounting kits, harnesses, and antenna adapters. Check compatibility with the car’s CAN bus and any existing cameras or controls.


2. Choose the head unit and accessories. Decide on wired versus wireless Android Auto, screen size, and whether to include Apple CarPlay. Ensure power and connectivity requirements match your vehicle’s electrical system.


3. Disconnect the battery and carefully remove the old head unit and trim pieces. Use the correct dash kit and mounting hardware to fit the new unit securely.


4. Connect the wiring harness, antenna, and any necessary adapters (for steering‑wheel controls or cameras). Route cables neatly to avoid interference or damage.


5. Install, configure Android Auto on the new unit, and pair it with your Android phone. Choose wired or wireless projection and enable required permissions.


6. Test thoroughly: audio routing, navigation apps, music apps, voice commands, and any integrated features like the rear camera or steeringwheel controls. Make adjustments as needed.


7. Consider professional installation. If you’re uncomfortable with wiring, airbag and CAN‑bus systems, or complex dash work, a qualified installer can ensure a clean, safe result and preserve vehicle electronics.

Concluding paragraph: A professional installation can save time, prevent cosmetic damage, and ensure reliable integration with factory features such as cameras and wheel‑mounted controls. Expect total costs to include the head unit, dash kit, wiring harness, and labor.

Tips for a smooth retrofit

These practical tips help maximize success and minimize surprises during a retrofit project.

• Verify compatibility with your vehicle’s dash layout, including space, mounting depth, and the presence of a factory auxiliary input or CAN‑bus features.


• Decide between wired and wireless Android Auto based on your driving habits and the unit’s capabilities; wireless provides convenience but may require additional setup and occasional re‑pairing.


• Confirm that the head unit receives regular software updates and supports the latest Android Auto features you use (Maps, music services, and voice assistants).


• Be aware of warranty implications. Aftermarket units can affect your vehicle warranty; professional installation can help preserve coverage where possible.


• Budget for additional parts and services, such as a professional dash kit, anti‑noise materials, or steering‑wheel control adapters if you want to retain those features.

Concluding paragraph: With careful planning, the retrofit can deliver a seamless modern smartphone experience inside an older or non‑equipped car, while preserving usability and safety.

Summary

For a car without Android Auto, the most reliable option is to install an aftermarket head unit that includes Android Auto support, either wired or wireless. OEM retrofit paths exist but are less common and vary by region and dealer. If a full replacement isn’t feasible, screen mirroring is a secondary option but offers fewer features and potential safety drawbacks. Always prioritize professional installation for a clean, safe, and durable result, and verify compatibility with your car’s dash, power system, and safety features.

What if my car is not compatible with Android Auto?

To get more information about your car's compatibility with Android Auto on your car display, contact your vehicle manufacturer. To use Android Auto on your car display, your car needs to be compatible with Android Auto or have an aftermarket unit installed. Android Auto won't work on all cars equipped with a USB port.

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 to get Android Auto in a car that doesn't have it?

You can get Android Auto in a car that doesn't have it by installing an aftermarket head unit that supports Android Auto or by using a portable Android Auto display. Installing a new head unit is a more integrated but complex and expensive solution, while portable displays are often easier and cheaper, plugging into your car's power outlet and connecting wirelessly or via cable to your phone and car's audio system. 
Method 1: Install an aftermarket head unit 

• What it is: Replacing your car's original media console with a new one that has a built-in Android Auto touchscreen. 
• How it works: The new head unit connects to your car's speakers and is designed to fit into the dashboard's pre-existing space. 
• Pros: Provides a factory-installed look and feel, full integration with your car's systems. 
• Cons: Requires professional installation in many cases, can be expensive, and may not be possible in all car models with unique console designs. 

This video demonstrates the installation process of a portable Android Auto display: 55sBen CaranoYouTube · Dec 6, 2023
Method 2: Use a portable Android Auto display 

• What it is: A standalone device with a touchscreen that sits on your dashboard and connects wirelessly or via cable to your phone and car. 
• How it works:
  • Plug the device into your car's 12-volt power outlet (cigarette lighter). 
  • Connect your phone to the portable unit via Bluetooth for a wireless connection. 
  • Connect the device's audio to your car's stereo, either through the device's built-in speaker, an aux cable, or by broadcasting to an FM station. 
• Pros: Much cheaper and easier to install, can be moved between vehicles, and doesn't require permanent modification to your car. 
• Cons: The device will be visible on your dashboard, and audio quality may vary depending on the connection method (e.g., FM broadcasts can have static). 

This video shows how to easily add Android Auto to any car using a portable display: 44sCarGuy11YouTube · Sep 30, 2023
Important considerations

• Wireless dongles: If you choose an aftermarket head unit or portable display that still requires a wired connection, you can add a wireless dongle (like AAWireless) to enable a wireless connection between your phone and the unit. 
• Check your phone's compatibility: Some older Android phones may require you to download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store, while newer phones have it built-in. 
• Phone requirements: Ensure your phone meets the minimum requirements for Android Auto and has a strong cellular signal for data-heavy apps like Google Maps. 

Is there a substitute for Android Auto?

Car Dashdroid - An Outstanding Android Auto Alternative
A top contender in this space is Car Dashdroid, an intelligent and customizable app that transforms your dashboard into a powerful driving assistant.