Why won t my Honda connect to Android Auto?
Broadly speaking, the issue usually comes down to compatibility, wiring, or software. Updating the phone and the car’s infotainment system, using a data-enabled USB cable, and ensuring Android Auto is enabled on both devices solves most problems.
This article explains why Android Auto might fail to connect to a Honda, how to diagnose the problem, and practical steps to restore connectivity. We cover compatibility considerations, wiring and cable checks, software updates, and configuration settings across common Honda infotainment systems, with guidance on model-specific notes and when to seek professional help.
Compatibility: Is Android Auto available in your Honda?
Android Auto availability varies by model year and trim. Some older Hondas require a software update to enable Android Auto, and not all models support wireless connections. Confirm your exact vehicle's capabilities on Honda's official support pages or in the owner’s manual, and note whether your trim supports wired or wireless Android Auto.
Checklist before troubleshooting
- Your Honda model and year supports Android Auto in your trim (wired, wireless, or both).
- The infotainment system is running a version that supports Android Auto and is up to date.
- You have a compatible data USB cable (not a charging cable) if using wired Android Auto.
If compatibility is confirmed but you still can't connect, proceed to the troubleshooting steps below.
Troubleshooting: Common fixes for Android Auto not connecting
Follow these steps in the order listed to diagnose and fix most connection problems.
- Use a high-quality data USB cable and try a different USB port in the car. Some ports are charging-only and do not transmit data.
- On your phone, update the Android Auto app and your device's Android OS to the latest available versions.
- Launch Android Auto on your phone and grant all required permissions (location, notifications, microphone, etc.). Make sure Android Auto is allowed to start automatically when connected.
- In the Honda infotainment system, ensure Android Auto is enabled or selected as the source. You may need to switch to Android Auto from the head-unit home screen or set it as the default source.
- Restart both devices: power off the car, unplug the cable, restart your phone, and then reconnect. A full reboot often resolves software hiccups.
- Check for Honda infotainment system updates and install them if available. Firmware updates can fix compatibility issues with Android Auto.
- Disable Bluetooth on the phone temporarily while using wired Android Auto to avoid conflicts, since some setups can misroute audio or data otherwise.
- If you’re attempting wireless Android Auto, ensure both the phone and car support wireless mode, and verify the car is connected via the car’s Wi-Fi or Bluetooth as required, keeping the devices close.
- As a last resort, reset the Honda infotainment system to factory defaults and reconfigure Android Auto from scratch. Note that this erases personalized settings.
If none of these steps resolve the issue, there may be a hardware fault or a deeper software conflict. Contact your Honda dealership or Honda customer support for diagnosis.
Model-specific notes and tips
Some Honda models implement Android Auto differently depending on the year, trim, and whether the system supports wired or wireless connections. Always check the owner's manual or Honda’s official support pages for the exact steps and capabilities for your vehicle.
How to verify compatibility quickly
Look up your exact model and year on Honda’s official site or in the owner’s manual. If Android Auto appears as a selectable source on the head unit, you’re likely set. If wireless Android Auto is important, confirm that your trim explicitly supports wireless connections.
When to seek professional help
If the issue persists after trying the troubleshooting steps, schedule a service appointment. There could be a fault in the infotainment unit, a fuse, or a software bug that requires dealer-level diagnostics.
Summary
Android Auto connectivity with a Honda can fail for several reasons, including compatibility limits, the wrong USB cable, outdated software, or incorrect settings. Start by confirming compatibility, then update software, use a data-enabled cable, and adjust settings on both the phone and the infotainment system. If problems persist, seek dealer support for a definitive diagnosis and resolution.
Additional resources
For the latest compatibility information specific to your vehicle, visit Honda’s official support pages or consult your owner’s manual. You can also contact Honda customer support or your local dealer for guidance on Android Auto compatibility and updates.
