In this article, we will be discussing how to use the Google Maps app on Android Auto. We’ll cover topics such as setting a destination, using voice commands to control Google Maps, getting traffic information, and even downloading and using Google Maps offline.
Whether you’re a seasoned Android Auto user or just getting started, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the roads with ease. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the information you need to make the most of your Google Maps experience on Android Auto.
Key Takeaways
We have compiled everything you need to know about Google Maps on Android Auto and how to use it in one place. Here are the key takeaways:
- Google Maps is a pre-installed navigation app on Android Auto, which allows you to get the best navigation on your car.
- Google Maps is the most-used navigational app among Android users and is the default navigational app on Android Auto.
- You can use downloaded routes and maps even offline, making it convenient for long trips.
- Google Maps on Android Auto has a user-friendly interface, which also comes with options to search for hotels, fuel stations, and other necessities en route.
- The voice navigation and Google voice commands will be useful if you do not wish to take your eyes off the road.
How to Use Google Maps App on Android Auto
If you’re looking for the quickest and easiest route, Google Maps on Android Auto has got you covered. It not only gives you alternate routes but also provides information about the traffic situation. Here is how you can get the maximum out of Google Maps in Android Auto.
How to Set a Destination
To set a destination, ensure your car is in the park (P) mode before starting the process.
With Android Auto connected to your car’s head unit, open the Maps app and click the Search option.
Enter your destination using the on-screen keyboard. Ensure you select the correct location if multiple options are shown on the screen.
Upon confirming your destination, you will be given directions to the shortest route possible, along with information regarding traffic and approximate travel time.
Apart from typing in your destination, you can also find them using the options available on the search bar.
Options such as Recent, Categories, and Saved will be shown along with the space for typing in the address.
- The Recent option will display the addresses of places you have visited recently and other places you have searched on the app recently.
- The Categories option will bring up the addresses of places by categorizing them as Food & drinks, Shopping, Services, and so on. Every place listed under it will be shown upon choosing a category, and you can select whichever suits you best.
- The Saved option lets you choose the address saved in your Contacts. For example, you can save your office, home, or a friend’s house address and access them with just a tap without typing the address every time.
How to Use Voice Commands to Control Google Maps on Android Auto
One of the key features of using Maps on Android Auto is voice commands. You can ask Google to get to the navigation for any place you wish to go by using a simple voice command.
To use voice commands, press the voice command button on your steering wheel, say “Hey Google,” or tap the microphone icon on Google Maps.
Continue to dictate the location of your choice and choose the right one if multiple addresses are displayed on the screen. You can cancel or stop the navigation as you initiate it.
The following are some of the sample voice commands you can try and use.
- “Hey, Google, Take me to my Office.”
- “Hey, Google, Directions to Home.”
- “Hey, Google, Stop the navigation,”
- “Hey, Google, Navigate to Walmart.”
- “Hey, Google, Cancel the navigation.”
Important Note: Android Auto voice commands will not work on those cars that aren’t Android Auto compatible.
How to Get Traffic Information from Google Maps on Android Auto
Apart from voice commands and estimated travel time, the traffic information displayed on the screen is also very useful and handy.
Different colors indicate the traffic situation, and the color gets displayed right where it happens on the route.
To get traffic information, on the Google Maps app on your car’s infotainment, tap the Settings icon, select the Traffic option, and toggle the traffic information on and off as you wish.
How to Download and Use Google Maps Offline
Offline maps will be most useful while traveling through places with weak or no internet connection. You can download them as and when your internet is stable.
To download and use Google Maps offline, open the Google Maps app, tap on the Settings icon, go to the Privacy Centre, and select the Offline Maps option.
Click on Auto-download offline maps and wait till the downloading process is complete.
The downloaded maps will now be available under the Offline Maps section in the Privacy Centre. Options to Download, Rename, Update, and Delete offline maps will also be available.
Once the Auto-download is turned on, all your destinations will be automatically downloaded and saved on Offline maps. But if you turn it off, new destinations will not be downloaded, but the already downloaded maps will remain unaffected.
FAQ
At times, users might face issues with the infotainment system of their car, especially when it comes to using Google Maps on Android Auto. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help resolve some of these issues.
- Why is Google Maps not showing on Android Auto? If you cannot find Google Maps on the infotainment system, it might have been disabled by mistake. To rectify this, you can add it to Android Auto through the “Customize launcher” option available in the app settings on your phone.
- Can I mute voice-guided navigation on Google Maps in Android Auto? Yes, you can easily mute or decrease the volume of the voice-guided navigation on Google Maps using the Volume button available on the screen.
It is important to note that these are just a few of the most common issues users face while using Google Maps on Android Auto. If you are facing any other issues, it is recommended to check the Android Auto Help Center or the Google Maps Help Center for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we set up Google Maps on our car’s display using Android Auto?
To set up Google Maps on your car’s display using Android Auto, you need to follow these simple steps:
- First, you need to ensure that your car is compatible with Android Auto and that you have the Android Auto app installed on your phone.
- Next, connect your phone to your car’s infotainment system using a USB cable or wirelessly if your car’s system supports it.
- Once connected, launch the Android Auto app on your phone and select Google Maps from the list of available apps.
- You can now use Google Maps on your car’s display to navigate to your desired destination.
Is Google Maps free to use with Android Auto?
Yes, Google Maps is free to use with Android Auto. However, you may need to pay for data charges if you don’t have an unlimited data plan.
What are the steps to download Google Maps for Android Auto?
Google Maps comes pre-installed with the Android Auto app. You don’t need to download it separately. However, you need to ensure that you have the latest version of the Android Auto app installed on your phone.
How do we troubleshoot Google Maps not working on Android Auto?
If you are facing issues with Google Maps not working on Android Auto, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Ensure that your phone is connected to your car’s infotainment system and that the Android Auto app is running on your phone.
- Check if there are any updates available for the Android Auto app and Google Maps app. If yes, update both apps to the latest version.
- Restart your phone and car’s infotainment system.
- Clear the cache and data of the Android Auto app and Google Maps app.
- If the issue persists, try uninstalling and reinstalling the Android Auto app and Google Maps app.
Can we use Google Maps on Android Auto without an internet connection?
No, you cannot use Google Maps on Android Auto without an internet connection. Google Maps requires an active internet connection to function.
What should we do if Google Maps is not displaying correctly on Android Auto?
If Google Maps is not displaying correctly on Android Auto, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Ensure that your phone is connected to your car’s infotainment system and that the Android Auto app is running on your phone.
- Check if there are any updates available for the Android Auto app and Google Maps app.
- If yes, update both apps to the latest version.
- Restart your phone and car’s infotainment system.
- Clear the cache and data of the Android Auto app and Google Maps app.
- If the issue persists, try uninstalling and reinstalling the Android Auto app and Google Maps app.
