How To Install Android Auto In My Car

Introduction

Even an older vehicle can use Android Auto. All you need are the appropriate attachments and a smartphone with a respectable-sized screen running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher (Android 6.0 is ideal). Your smartphone’s implementation of Android Auto may be made almost as good as the dashboard version by adding a few useful apps and phone settings.

As an Android user, your car’s entertainment system sometimes cannot support Android Auto. Although this platform supports over 500 models, you might not own one of them. To get Android capability out of it, you can install an Android head unit, depending on the model of your automobile.

Although these head units are Android-based, much like a phone. There are chances when you might wish to connect your phone to them so that you can use Android Auto as normal. To connect your phone to an Android head unit in these situations, you must learn how to install Android Auto on the device. You will learn how to achieve that from this article.

1. Factory head unit with android auto.

To make sure you choose the appropriate form of Android Auto head unit, it is important to understand how these three types differ from one another.

1. The Android Auto-only models of these head units are the most basic. This shows that it has all the limitations present in Android Auto-equipped vehicles. There are limits on using some apps, using certain items while driving, and more.
2. Much like your phone or tablet, head units also function on Android. These have lesser limitations, making them the best option if you want a nearly complete Android experience in your vehicle.
3. Finally, there are head units available that work with both Android and Apple CarPlay. This shows that they are identical to the head unit stated above but are more adaptable. This has a higher cost attached.

How to set up Android Auto on a head unit for Android?

The steps are pretty easy If you wish to install Android Auto on Android Head Unit. The processes are different from how we install Android Auto on our phones.

1. Install Headunit Reloaded from the Google Play Store on your Android head unit. Although it is a premium app, it is useful. If you wish to utilize the trial version to test things out, you can also choose the Android Auto APK for the head unit through this link.
2. The next step is to Install Android Auto on your Android phone. It comes pre-installed if your device runs Android 10 or higher. Install it from the Google Play app store if not.
3. To test whether Android Auto on an Android head unit is functional, you must connect your phone to the device. Attach a USB cable to it.
4. Accept all of the head unit’s instructions as Headunit Reloaded launches on its own. If it does not you can manually launch the app, choose “USB,” and then choose the phone that is plugged in. This step will complete the setup.

2. Aftermarket head unit 

You must first determine the type of head unit your vehicle can use if you decide to install an optional head unit. Practically speaking, any knowledgeable person at the auto shop should be able to help you choose the right one for your car. 

They can even install a custom system if your vehicle requires one. However, if you would prefer to handle the process yourself, you will need to conduct some studies and tips for installation.

1. Collect some screwdrivers preferably flat head, a socket set, wire cutters, wire adaptors, butt plugs or heat shrinking gloves, sticky tape, cable ties, soldering, and a soldering iron, as well as some patience, to get started. Also, to make the installation process easy we recommend buying the stereo wiring cable. This will make the process easy to upgrade to a different aftermarket head unit. 
2. Start by removing the negative cable from the battery. By doing this, you can avoid accidentally stepping on any cables and damaging brand-new equipment. The next step is to remove the former head unit. Once it is free, detach the antenna and electrical cable from the head unit and take it off entirely.
3. Out of the two types of cable wires, one is the universal wire that connects your vehicle with the existing wire. It also has incomplete wire ends that attach to your new head unit’s color-coded wires. Additionally, there is a wire connector that clicks into place on both sides and has a harness on both ends. This is the quickest method to install.
4. Another easy method is to use butt connectors, which crimp the wires inside a connector.
5. For a neatly finished appearance, clip the extra zip tie. Connect the head unit’s cables to the connector that is linked to the car. Connect the antenna. Place the head unit there now, but don’t connect it just yet. Turn on the head unit after reconnecting the negative battery cable by now, it ought to be operating normally.

3. External screen

Before you may use the tablet or external screen, there are several requirements you must complete. Although it could appear to be a difficult process, if you carefully follow the directions, it will be simple.

1. Remove your old unit. You will need to remove the existing dashboard that comes with the vehicle before you can install a new one. Although the procedure may alter slightly for different head units, the fundamentals will remain the same. The screws holding the item to the dashboard must be removed. To install the new radio, the car stereo must first be unplugged from the unit and is removed.
2. All tablets require a charge to function. You won’t be able to turn the device on if there is no power. Therefore, you need to make sure the tablet has a power source of some kind. Either you use a direct line. For this option, you can use your car battery. Otherwise use USB which is another easy option. 
3. You will need an audio system. The car’s head unit is incomplete if you do not have the audio system. You will need an amplifier for a better quality of sound. The sound has to travel from the amplifier to the speakers before it can be heard. Wires and cables are required for this process to link the components to one another. You have the choice of using the speakers that came with your automobile, as well as purchasing new ones.
4. You need to see where you can place the tablet. This is an individual’s choice to do the placement. Just bear in mind that your tablet has to have access to an AUX cord occasionally, as well as a USB cable for charging. Therefore, you must attach it so that both cables are accessible.

The next step after setting everything up is to see if everything is functioning properly. You need to make sure that your audio head unit’s connections and cords are all functioning as they should be.

4. Factory carplay + android auto box 

With extra capabilities like compatibility with reversing cameras or object sensors frequently included as well, many head units are now completely compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

1. Connect your phone to the CarPlay USB port; look for the CarPlay logo there.
2. If your car has wireless Bluetooth connectivity, pick your vehicle under Settings > General > CarPlay > Available Cars.
3. Ensure that your vehicle is running.

5. Android phone

Two ways to install an android phone. Either through USB or wireless

1. Confirm that your phone fulfills the minimal specifications. Check that Android Auto is enabled in your car’s settings and that your vehicle is compatible with Android Auto. If you’re unsure, speak with your local vehicle dealer. Make sure the mobile internet connection on your phone is reliable and quick.
2. Turn on your car before you connect your phone for the first time. Before you begin your drive, make sure your car is in the park (P) and give yourself time to configure Android Auto. You need to use a USB cable to join your Android phone to the car’s USB port. Your phone could prompt you to update to the most recent version of the app or download the Android Auto app. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. When Android Auto is linked to the car through USB, your phone’s Bluetooth is automatically activated. Select android auto and follow the on-screen instructions
3. For a wireless connection, the steps will remain the same as the wired connection. You will need to check the compatibility of wireless android auto. Keep your Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and location on during the entire process.
4. The USB port should be connected using the cable. Your phone could prompt you to update to the most recent version of the app or download the Android Auto app. Complete the on-screen directions to finish the setup.

Conclusion

You can pick the best head unit or system for your car and your budget now that you are aware of what is required to implement Android Auto fully into your vehicle. Always compare prices and, if necessary, get professional installation advice.