Issues with Android Auto? Help Needed

Toyota Truck, SUV and Vans Forum Toyota Highlander
1

Hello everyone, I recently purchased a 2021 Highlander LE but I can’t get Android Auto to work. When I connect my USB A, I get a message saying to stop the car and follow instructions on my phone to turn it on. Does anyone know if the 2021 Highlander LE has this feature? Or do I need to pay for a subscription?

2

It’s frustrating when features don’t work as they should. I got help through Toyota’s customer service number. They are available:

  • Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 8 PM Eastern Time
  • Saturday: 9 AM - 7 PM Eastern Time

You can also check Toyota’s website for more info and contact options.

About the 2021 Toyota Highlander LE and Android Auto:

  • Android Auto is a standard feature in the 2021 Highlander LE, and there’s no subscription needed.
  • The issue you’re facing might be a technical glitch. Here are some steps to troubleshoot:
    • Make sure your Android phone is compatible with Android Auto.
    • Use a good quality USB cable; a faulty one can cause issues.
    • Try a different USB port in your car.
  • Check your phone settings:
    • Ensure Android Auto is enabled in your phone’s settings.
    • Look for updates for your phone’s OS and the Android Auto app.
  • In the Highlander’s infotainment system, ensure Android Auto is enabled. Restarting the system can sometimes fix glitches.
  • Clear the cache and data for the Android Auto app on your phone.
  • Check for updates for the Highlander’s infotainment system from Toyota.

If these steps don’t help, consider taking your Highlander to a Toyota dealership for further assistance.

3

It might depend on your Android phone. On my OnePlus, I have to change the USB connection type every time I connect a cable. It was annoying until my phone started asking me to verify the connection type after an OS update. My wife drives the Highlander, and her Samsung phone doesn’t have this issue. I have a Motorola wireless Android Auto adapter that might fix the problem.

4

@Elijah4
If it’s this one, it works great. It’s a must-have for older Highlanders, especially for short drives. Motorola MA1 Wireless Android Car Adapter - Instant Connection from Smartphone to Screen with Easy Setup - Direct Plug-in USB Adapter - Secure Gel Pad Included

5

@Cael
I have one of the wireless Android Auto boxes too, and it works great. No laggy input, and apps like Pandora and Google Maps run perfectly.

6

I use this adapter for wireless Android Auto. It takes about 30 seconds to connect and works perfectly afterward. It connects automatically when I start the car. I have a 2021 Highlander Hybrid Platinum. Motorola MA1 Wireless Android Car Adapter - Instant Connection from Smartphone to Screen with Easy Setup - Direct Plug-in USB Adapter - Secure Gel Pad Included https://placehold.co/600x400.png

7

I had a similar issue. Try disconnecting the negative battery terminal. That might reset everything.

8

You might want to get a new USB-A cable.

9

Do you have Android Auto installed on your phone? Can you try a different cable?

10

John said:
Do you have Android Auto installed on your phone? Can you try a different cable?

I fixed the issue. I had to uninstall the Android Auto app then reinstall it and it worked!

11

I have the same model. You should connect the phone while stopped and wait. If it doesn’t connect, make sure the cable you’re using is working.

12

Arthur said:
I have the same model. You should connect the phone while stopped and wait. If it doesn’t connect, make sure the cable you’re using is working.

Okay, I might need to change my cable then.

13

@Caden
Yes… not all cables are created equal.