What should I do if I am having issues with Android Auto™?
Find possible solutions to your Android Auto* issue(s) with the troubleshooting steps contained in this article.
Android Auto Troubleshooting
Important:
- Ensure that your vehicle is on and running in a well-ventilated area and is in Park (P).
- Android Auto cannot be used while your device is connected to your Wi-Fi hotspot.
Select your SYNC®** generation from the drop-down options below to learn how to modify your SYNC connectivity settings.
Note: If you need assistance determining the generation of your SYNC system, select the first drop-down option.
Identifying Your SYNC Generation
Two resources to help you identify your vehicle's SYNC generation are the:
- SYNC and Navigation Updates page. Either:
- Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and select Check for update.
-
Log in with your Lincoln credentials, choose a vehicle from your garage, and select Check for updates.
Note: Your SYNC gen will appear on the right-hand side of the page.
- SYNC Visual Reference Guide, which provides example images of SYNC generations that Lincoln has offered.
SYNC 4
Confirm your device is connected with a USB cable or wireless connection, and consult the table below:
Connection Type | Handling |
USB Cable | A USB connection requires:
Complete the following:
If there is still an issue with Android Auto, proceed to Android Auto Troubleshooting within this accordion. |
Wireless | Wireless connection requires:
Important:
Complete the following:
Once your phone is paired with your car via Bluetooth, Android Auto should start within a few seconds. If not, follow the on-screen prompts to start Android Auto. You may need to tap Android Auto on your car display. Note: If Android Auto does not launch, try connecting with a USB cable. If there is still an issue with Android Auto, proceed to Android Auto Troubleshooting within this accordion. |
Complete the following:
- Confirm that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your device.
-
Pair the device to SYNC via Bluetooth.
Note: If the pairing is unsuccessful:
- Press and hold the voice command button on your steering wheel.
- Verify the vehicle is in wireless or Bluetooth pairing mode.
- Perform the following from your device:
- Tap Settings.
- Go to General.
- Select Android Auto.
- Choose Available Cars.
-
Select your vehicle.
Note: Some vehicles that support wireless Android Auto will allow you to pair your phone wirelessly by first plugging the phone into the vehicle's USB port with a manufacturer-approved USB cable. After plugging the device in with the USB cable, you will be asked if you want to connect wirelessly for future use.
A successful pairing should allow Android Auto to start working. If it does not, try the troubleshooting steps below:
- Use another cable.
- Use the SYNC USB port closest to the SYNC screen.
-
Set the audio source to USB and try playing music from any available source (iTunes, Spotify, etc.).
Note: If this does not work, the USB hardware has failed. End troubleshooting and visit your Lincoln Retailer to inspect the USB port.
- Perform a key cycle.
- Perform a SYNC Module Reset.
-
Perform a soft reset on the phone.
Notes:
- If you do not know how to perform the soft reset, visit the manufacturer's website, as instructions will vary by phone model.
- After performing a soft reset, you will be taken back to the "Home" screen. The screen's appearance will be different if you have an active navigation route.
- Delete the device from the vehicle's SYNC menu using one of the options below:
- Voice Commands steps:
- Press the Voice button on the steering wheel. SYNC will ask for a command.
- Say: Delete <Name of Phone>.
- Press Delete.
- Non-Voice Steps:
- Select Settings on the SYNC screen.
- Tap Phone List.
- Select Phone.
- Choose the "Delete symbol" (trash can).
- Tap Yes.
- Voice Commands steps:
- Delete SYNC from the device's Bluetooth menu.
- Pair your phone to your vehicle using Bluetooth.
Once pairing is complete, you should be able to use Android Auto.
If you need further assistance, contact Lincoln Concierge at 1-800-521-4140, or by selecting Live Chat at the bottom right of lincoln.com/support.
SYNC 3
Perform the following steps:
- Confirm you have:
- Connected the Android™† device to SYNC via a manufacturer's approved USB cable.
- Android Auto installed on your smart device.
- Ensure your phone settings are correct using Google's support website.
- Attempt using another cable if one is available.
-
Test to see if the USB functions as an audio source outside of Android Auto.
Notes:
- Example: Set the audio source to USB and try playing music from any available source, such as Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, etc.
- If this does not work, the USB hardware has failed. Contact your Lincoln Retailer for further assistance.
- Perform a soft reset on the device.
- Perform a key cycle.
- Attempt a SYNC module reset.
If issues persist, see the following table:
Issue or Error | Handling |
Android Auto is not showing or has disappeared from the SYNC screen. | Complete the following:
If the issue persists, contact your Lincoln Retailer for further assistance. |
You are unable to hear incoming call audio while connected to Android Auto. | Complete the following:
If the issue persists, contact your Lincoln Retailer for further assistance. |
You are experiencing other issues with Android Auto. | Contact your Lincoln Retailer for further assistance. |
Additional Information
How do I disable or enable Android Auto with SYNC?
Android Auto Frequently Asked Questions
*Requires phone with active data service and compatible software. SYNC® 3/SYNC® 4 does not control 3rd party products while in use. 3rd Parties are solely responsible for their respective functionality.
**Don't drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.
Android is a trademark of Google LLC.
The Bluetooth word mark is a trademark of the Bluetooth SIG, Inc.