Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Diagnostic Aids
- Listed below are some common Android Auto Error Messages or Error Codes -NOTE:
For vehicles equipped with radio RPO IOR, error messages will not be displayed on the vehicle or device screen.
- Google Play Services error: Android Auto could not connect with Google Play Services
Likely cause: Something went wrong while setting up Android Auto.
Suggested solutions:
- Connect your phone to your vehicle with a USB cable first, before attempting to open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- After you have connected your phone to the vehicle open Android Auto and follow the getting started flow and accept all permissions.
- If it still does not work, uninstall Google Play Services update and re-update then follow the steps above.
- Communication error 6: If phone battery below 20% Android Auto will not work.
Likely cause: Radio software or Google Play version out of date.
Suggested solutions: Update to Google Play version 12.6.85 or beyond and check for any radio updates.
- Communication error code 7: Android Auto failed to set up a secured communication with the head unit.
Suggested solution: Make sure Google Play services is up to date and try a different recommended USB cable.
- Communication error 8: Authentication failed between the car and the phone.
Likely cause: This is most likely caused by the incorrect date and time on the radio.
Suggested solutions: Disconnect your phone from the vehicle. In radio settings set the correct date, time, time zone, daylight saving. Make sure it matches the settings on your phone.
- Communication error 12: Vehicle is not responding
Likely cause: Transient software failure. If this occurs frequently it could be caused by a faulty USB cable.
Suggested solution: Try a new USB cable approved by the manufacture.
- For additional information refer to "Android Auto Help" site.
- Google Play Services error: Android Auto could not connect with Google Play Services
- Visit for a list of Android Auto compatible apps. This does not guarantee the functionality of the app.
- Android Auto will only automatically launch the first time it is time it is connected to the system within a key cycle.
- It is required the device be connected to the vehicles USB port. It is recommended to use the device's factory provided USB cable. Aftermarket or third - party cables may not work.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.