Google Maps navigation on Android Auto suffers two critical bugs that strip essential features from drivers, leaving millions with incomplete guidance.
Android Auto users report disappearing car icons and missing step-by-step direction lists in Google Maps, creating navigation hazards during daily commutes. The issues surfaced across Google's support forums, Reddit communities, and social media platforms this week.
Drivers first noticed car icons vanishing from navigation screens when switching between apps in split-screen view. The map continues moving normally with traffic data and turn instructions, but the vehicle position indicator disappears completely.
Users describe the experience as "jarring" and disorienting.
The car icon bug appears linked to Android Auto version 16.1 released last week, though some reports trace it back to version 15.9. Community members discovered a temporary workaround: reverting to Google Maps' default white arrow icon instead of custom vehicle icons.
A separate, more fundamental bug removes the step-by-step direction list that drivers typically access by tapping the next-turn instruction bar. This leaves users with only a map and immediate next instruction, eliminating the ability to anticipate lane changes or prepare for complex maneuvers.
Reports span multiple Android devices including Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, and OnePlus handsets across various vehicle models. The problems don't appear isolated to specific hardware or software versions, suggesting server-side configuration changes may be responsible.
Google has not publicly acknowledged either bug despite growing user complaints on official support channels. The company typically addresses Android Auto issues through server-side updates rather than traditional app releases.
Android Auto currently supports over 400 car models worldwide and serves as Google's primary phone-projection system for in-car navigation.
The company simultaneously promotes Android Automotive, its embedded vehicle operating system that offers deeper integration with instrument clusters.
This marks the latest in a series of Android Auto reliability issues. Last year, version 13.4 and 13.5 updates broke wireless connectivity for many users, requiring Google intervention. Pixel 10 devices also experienced gray screen problems when connecting to Android Auto.
Affected drivers have limited options while awaiting official fixes. Some successfully restored car icons by switching to default navigation markers. Others cleared Google Maps cache or experimented with different Android Auto versions.
The timing coincides with Google's broader navigation strategy shift.
The feature remains exclusive to Android Automotive systems with integrated vehicle sensors, while Google continues to develop AI-powered features like Gemini for Google Maps.
For now, drivers encountering persistent issues can contact Google's support team, which operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM CST for troubleshooting assistance.
