Google has so far ignored all reports from users struggling with Android Auto after updating their devices to Android 14, so it’s unclear if the company is even investigating the bug. However, one of our readers recently told me he discovered a ridiculously simple workaround that seems to restore Android Auto on a device running Android 14.
The user says the fix only works in a car where Android Auto doesn’t launch after installing Android 14. Before connecting the mobile device with a cable to the infotainment system, you must enable USB debugging on the smartphone. Connect the phone to the head unit, and you should see Android Auto running correctly. You can now safely disable USB debugging, and Android Auto should continue to work properly.
Someone on Google’s forums confirms that this workaround does the trick but adds that the smartphone must be restarted after connecting it for the first time to the head unit. You must reboot the device while it’s still connected to the head unit, so the next time Android 14 loads, you should see Android Auto firing up automatically on the screen. In both cases, disabling USB debugging after Android Auto starts correctly on Android 14 the first time doesn’t impact the app’s functionality for the next launch.
Meanwhile, Android 14 is also causing other problems that don’t yet have a fix. For example, the new mobile operating system version reportedly breaks down Spotify, with users complaining that the application plays music, but no sounds come out of the speakers. Disconnecting the smartphone from the head unit and playing music via Bluetooth or directly on the mobile device works correctly.
The generic solutions available in the Android Auto world don’t seem to help, as clearing the cache and the data fails to correct the bugs. Users claim Android 14 is the culprit, so the only solution is to downgrade to Android 13 on devices impacted by the glitch.
Not everybody is struggling with Android Auto on Android 14, though. Everything runs correctly on my Pixel 8 Pro, though I connect to the head unit wirelessly. If you can run the app without a cord or own a wireless Android Auto adapter and can, therefore, ditch cables, it could be a more convenient solution than returning to the previous Android version.
If you find a different workaround that fixes Android Auto on a device running Android 14, make sure you drop us a line below, and I’ll make sure we share it with the rest of our readers as soon as possible.
Alex Mitchell is your go-to expert for all things mobile. With a passion for the latest smartphones, apps, and mobile innovations, Alex provides in-depth reviews, insightful analyses, and breaking news about the ever-evolving world of mobile technology. Stay connected with Alex to navigate the fast-paced realm of mobile devices.
