How to connect Android Auto to Dodge Ram?

Android Auto lets you project compatible apps from your Android phone onto the Ram’s Uconnect display, helping you navigate, text hands-free, and stream music safely. This guide covers wired and wireless connections, depending on your model and head unit. A simple, up-to-date overview follows.

What you’ll need

Make sure you have the right hardware and software before you begin.

• An Android phone running Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or newer with Google’s Android Auto support (built into Android 10 and later).


• A compatible Dodge Ram with a Uconnect system that supports Android Auto (most RAM models from 2018 onward use Uconnect 4/4C NAV or Uconnect 5, which supports Android Auto).


• A high-quality USB data cable for wired connections (USB-A to USB-A/C or USB-C, depending on port).


• A vehicle software update installed if needed (check the owner’s manual or Uconnect update tool).


• If you’re aiming for wireless Android Auto, a Ram head unit that supports wireless Android Auto (Uconnect 5) and a phone that supports wireless Android Auto.

With these in place, you’re ready to proceed. In the next sections, you’ll learn wired and wireless setup steps and common troubleshooting tips.

Wired connection: how to set it up

Wired Android Auto is the most universally supported method on Dodge Rams and generally the most reliable, requiring a USB connection between your phone and the vehicle’s USB port.

1. Start the Ram, unlock your phone, and ensure Android Auto is allowed to run in the background.


2. Plug the USB cable into the USB port in the center console that’s labeled for Android Auto or Mobile Device connection.


3. Plug the other end into your phone (USB-C or USB-A, depending on your model).


4. On the Uconnect screen, you’ll be prompted to enable or set up Android Auto; accept the prompts and grant necessary permissions on your phone (location, notifications, etc.).


5. If asked, choose “Always allow” for Android Auto for this car to avoid repeated prompts.


6. After permissions, the Android Auto interface should appear on the Uconnect display; you can now use supported apps like Maps, Messages, and Music.

Wired connections are straightforward if you use a good data cable and the correct USB port. If the screen stays on the car’s home screen and does not switch to Android Auto, remove and reinsert the cable or try another USB port.

Wireless connection: compatibility and setup

Some Dodge Ram models with Uconnect 5 support wireless Android Auto, which lets you project your phone’s Android Auto wirelessly via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Not all Rams offer wireless AA, so check your head unit’s capabilities and software version before attempting this method.

1. On your phone, ensure Android Auto is up to date and that your phone supports wireless Android Auto.


2. In your Ram’s Uconnect settings, look for Android Auto or Wireless Android Auto and enable the feature if available.


3. On the phone, pair via Bluetooth to the vehicle if prompted, then follow prompts to connect to Android Auto wirelessly; you may be asked to confirm the connection on the Uconnect screen.


4. Once connected, Android Auto should launch automatically on the Uconnect display; place your phone nearby or leave it in your pocket or bag as desired.

Wireless Android Auto depends on both the head unit and phone supporting the feature, and you may experience a brief pairing process the first time. If it doesn’t connect, verify that both devices are updated and that the RAM’s head unit is indeed compatible.

Compatibility tips and notes

Wireless Android Auto is more common on newer RAMs with Uconnect 5; older Uconnect versions typically require a wired connection. For best results, ensure your truck’s software is fully updated, and refer to your owner’s manual for specific steps for your trim level.

Troubleshooting common issues

Encountering hiccups? Here are practical fixes you can try before seeking service.

• Android Auto not showing on the Uconnect screen after connecting: verify cable quality, ensure the USB port is a data port (not just charging), and check USB mode on your phone.


• Phone prompts about permissions: grant location, microphone, and notification access, and allow “Always allow” for this car if available.


• Wireless connection failing: confirm both devices support wireless Android Auto, ensure Wi‑Fi is enabled on the phone, and try re-pairing via Bluetooth if required.


• Head-unit prompts for updates: check for Uconnect updates through the vehicle’s Settings > Software Update or via the official Stellantis/ dealer channels.


• Android Auto app not installed: on older Android versions you may need to install or re-install Android Auto from Google Play.

If problems persist, a dealer or certified technician can verify compatibility and perform updates if needed. Always ensure you’re driving safely and using voice prompts or steering-wheel controls when possible.

Additional tips for a smooth experience

Here are some best practices to keep in mind to maximize reliability and usability while driving with Android Auto in a Dodge Ram.

• Keep your phone charged or connected to power when using Android Auto for extended trips.


• Restrict background apps that could drain the phone’s resources or cause interface lag.


• Limit notifications on the phone while driving to reduce distraction; Android Auto will manage compatible notifications on-screen.


• Regularly update both the phone’s OS and the Ram’s Uconnect system to ensure compatibility and bug fixes.

With the right setup and up-to-date software, Android Auto can provide a safer, more intuitive driving experience in your Dodge Ram by bringing navigation, messages, and media onto the dash display.

Summary

Connecting Android Auto to a Dodge Ram is typically straightforward: use a wired USB connection on older or non-wireless head units, or enable wireless Android Auto on newer trucks with Uconnect 5. Ensure your phone, cable, and vehicle software are up to date, give the necessary permissions, and follow on-screen prompts to enable Android Auto on the Uconnect display. If you encounter issues, check cable quality, USB port data capability, and software updates, or consult a dealer for assistance.

How do I get Android Auto to work on my truck?

Connect your phone
Plug a USB cable into your vehicle's USB port; and then plug the other end of the cable into your phone. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Android Auto. (Your phone might ask you to update Android Auto before you continue.)

How to connect Android Auto to RAM truck?

Setup Guide

1. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone.
2. Press the "Phone" button on your Uconnect infotainment touch screen.
3. Select "Yes" to pair your phone.
4. The system will then ask if you'd like to enable and connect Android Auto, press "OK".

Does the Ram 1500 have Android Auto?

So you can't have both of them. There. You can push the button there in order to make it a favorite if you want same idea you can enable disable disconnect or delete.

How to enable Android Auto on Uconnect?

To get Android Auto on Uconnect, first, make sure your phone is compatible and has the latest Uconnect software, then connect your phone via a USB cable or Bluetooth. If your phone runs Android 9 or older, download the Android Auto app from Google Play before connecting. For Android 10 or newer, the app is built-in, so you can just connect via USB or Bluetooth. 
Method 1: Wired connection (USB)
This video demonstrates how to connect Android Auto via USB: 56sCars With SteveYouTube · Sep 4, 2021

1. Park your vehicle in park. 
2. Connect your smartphone to the Uconnect system's USB port using a USB cable. 
3. Accept any terms of use that appear on both the Uconnect screen and your phone. 
4. On your phone, grant permission for Android Auto to launch and access your data, like contacts and messages. 
5. The Android Auto interface should now appear on the Uconnect screen. 

Method 2: Wireless connection (Bluetooth)
This video shows how to set up wireless Android Auto: 41sCars With SteveYouTube · Feb 26, 2022

1. Ensure your vehicle's Uconnect system is on and your phone's Bluetooth is enabled. 
2. On the Uconnect screen, go to Settings > Bluetooth or tap the Phone icon to find the option to add a device. 
3. Select Add Device or Search and choose your vehicle's Uconnect system from the Bluetooth devices on your phone. 
4. Confirm that the pairing codes match on both screens and complete the pairing process. 
5. Follow the prompts to enable Android Auto. You may be asked to download the app if you have an older Android version. 

Troubleshooting

• If you have trouble connecting, try rebooting the Uconnect system by holding the volume knob for about 10 seconds until the screen turns off, then release to restart. 
• If you have an older Android version, you'll need to download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store before you can connect. 
• Ensure your vehicle's Uconnect software is up to date. You can check for updates or contact a dealer if needed.