Subaru Android Auto Issues: Why It’s Not Working and How to Fix It

Subaru, known for its innovative technology and safety features, also offers Android Auto compatibility in most of its modern models. However, like any technology, it can sometimes encounter issues, leaving users frustrated and wondering why their Android Auto is not working on their Subaru.

In this article, we will explore common reasons why Android Auto may not be working in your Subaru, and how you can fix it with our step-by-step solutions to get it up and running smoothly again.

Why is Android Auto not working on Subaru?

When the Android Auto on your Subaru vehicle is not working, there are a few factors that you need to consider. Sometimes, it can also be due to multiple issues that affects your infotainment system to function properly.

Android Auto not functioning as expected in your Subaru can be attributed to several causes, ranging from software glitches to connectivity issues.

Let’s delve into some of the common reasons why Android Auto may not be working and explore solutions for each:

Software Compatibility Issues

One of the primary reasons that prevents the Android Auto on your Subaru from working properly is software compatibility.

In most cases, outdated Android Auto or Subaru infotainment software can lead to compatibility issues that may prevent the two systems from working together seamlessly.

Furthermore, Android Auto requires a smartphone that’s running Android 8.0 Oreo or higher.

Solution: Ensure that both your Android Auto app on your smartphone and your Subaru’s infotainment system are running the latest software updates. Manufacturers often release updates to improve compatibility and fix bugs.

USB Cable Problems for Wired Connections

For those that are using a wired connection for Android Auto, the system itself relies on a stable USB connection between your smartphone and your Subaru’s infotainment system.

A faulty or low-quality USB cable can cause connection issues.

Solution: Use a high-quality, certified USB cable to connect your Android device to the vehicle’s USB port. If you suspect your cable is the problem, try using a different one to see if the issue persists.

USB Port Issues

Sometimes, the USB port in your Subaru might be damaged or malfunctioning, preventing a proper connection with your Android device.

Solution: For cases like this, it’s best to closely inspect the USB port in your vehicle for any visible damage or debris. If it appears damaged or dirty, have it serviced or cleaned by a professional technician.

You can also try using a different USB port in your vehicle, if available. Alternatively, try connecting wirelessly and see if that works.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Android Auto also relies on Bluetooth connectivity to establish a connection with your Subaru’s infotainment system.

If Bluetooth isn’t functioning correctly, it can hinder the Android Auto experience.

Solution: Ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on both your smartphone and your Subaru. Try unpairing and re-pairing your device to your vehicle’s infotainment system.

Incompatible Smartphone:

Not all Android smartphones are compatible with Android Auto.

Ensure that your smartphone is on the list of supported devices for Android Auto.

Solution: If your smartphone is not compatible, consider upgrading to a compatible device or using a secondary device for Android Auto.

Infotainment System Glitch

The infotainment of your Subaru may be suffering from a system glitch that cannot be fixed by hardware means.

System glitches are software issues that may appear from unpredictable and unknown causes.

Solution: Try to perform a factory reset on your infotainment. Resetting the system back to factory default usually fixes any form of system glitch that occurs from improper use or system updates.

How to get Android Auto to work on Subaru?

Now that we’ve discussed the common reasons behind Android Auto not working on your Subaru, let’s explore the steps to troubleshoot and get it working correctly:

Check for Software Updates: Start by checking for software updates on both your Android smartphone and your Subaru’s infotainment system. Manufacturers regularly release updates to improve compatibility and fix bugs.

Use a High-Quality USB Cable: Ensure that you are using a high-quality USB cable to connect your Android device to your Subaru. Consider using a certified USB cable to guarantee a stable connection.

Restart Your Smartphone: Sometimes, simply restarting your smartphone can resolve minor software glitches that might be causing Android Auto to malfunction.

Check USB Ports: Inspect the USB port in your Subaru for any visible damage or debris. If you find any issues, have it serviced or cleaned by a professional technician.

Reconnect Bluetooth: If Android Auto is not connecting correctly via Bluetooth, try unpairing your smartphone from your Subaru’s infotainment system and then reconnecting it.

Ensure Bluetooth and Location Permissions: Ensure that both Bluetooth and location permissions are enabled on your Android device. Android Auto requires these permissions to function correctly.

Check Android Auto Settings: Open the Android Auto app on your smartphone and check its settings. Make sure that the “Android Auto” option is enabled.

Factory Reset Infotainment System (As a Last Resort): If none of the above solutions work, you may need to perform a factory reset on your Subaru’s infotainment system.

This should be considered a last resort, as it will erase all personalized settings and data on the infotainment system.

PAA

How to factory reset the infotainment on Subaru

  1. Go to your Subaru’s settings menu.
  2. Navigate to the infotainment system settings.
  3. Look for the option to reset the system to factory defaults.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.

Consult the Dealership: If all else fails, it’s advisable to consult your Subaru dealership’s service department. They can provide professional assistance and may be able to diagnose and fix any underlying hardware or software issues.

Subaru Android Auto Greyed Out

Another frustrating issue that Subaru owners may encounter is the Android Auto icon or option appearing greyed out or disabled on the infotainment screen. This can be particularly perplexing, but it’s usually attributed to specific causes such as:

  • Connection Issues
  • Incompatible App Version
  • Incompatible Android Smartphone
  • Restrictions and Permissions
  • Outdated Infotainment System
  • Unsupported USB Cable
  • Unstable Wireless Connection

There are more other possible causes but the ones we mentioned here are the common ones.

Why is Android Auto Greyed Out on Subaru?

As we mentioned above, there are a number of possible factors that can contribute to the greying out of the Android Auto on a Subaru vehicle. In this section, we will discuss and explore common issues that causes the problem and how to fix it.

Connection Issues: If the Android Auto icon is greyed out, it might indicate a connection problem between your smartphone and the Subaru infotainment system. This could be due to a loose cable, a malfunctioning USB port, or a problem with the Bluetooth connection.

Solution: Refer to the earlier troubleshooting steps to address these connectivity issues. Ensure that your USB cable is securely connected, and your smartphone is paired via Bluetooth.

Incompatible App Version: An outdated or incompatible version of the Android Auto app on your smartphone can also lead to a greyed-out icon on the infotainment screen.

Solution: Make sure you have the latest version of the Android Auto app installed on your smartphone. Check for updates in your device’s app store and install any available updates.

Restrictions and Permissions: Android Auto might be greyed out if certain permissions or restrictions are set on your smartphone or the Subaru infotainment system. For example, if your vehicle is in motion, some features may be disabled for safety reasons.

Solution: Ensure that you have granted all necessary permissions to the Android Auto app on your smartphone. Additionally, check the Subaru infotainment system settings to see if any restrictions related to vehicle speed or motion are active.

Incompatible Smartphone: As mentioned earlier, not all Android smartphones are compatible with Android Auto. If your smartphone is not on the list of supported devices, the Android Auto icon may appear greyed out.

Solution: If your smartphone is not compatible, consider using a compatible device for Android Auto.

Conclusion

Android Auto is a valuable feature for car owners that uses Android smartphones as their daily drivers. Most especially for Subaru owners. Providing seamless integration of smartphones with their vehicles’ infotainment systems is now a necessity these days.

However, when Android Auto isn’t working as expected or the icon appears greyed out, it can be a frustrating situation especially if you’re in a hurry or have no time to troubleshoot.

By understanding the common reasons behind these issues and following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, Subaru owners can resolve most Android Auto-related problems and enjoy a smooth and convenient driving experience.

If all else fails, don’t hesitate to consult your Subaru dealership for professional assistance, ensuring that you can fully utilize the Android Auto feature in your vehicle.

Sources:

https://www.android.com/auto

https://www.subaruoutback.org/threads/android-auto-is-greyed-out.516151

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