How To Fix Android Auto Communication Error 8

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How To Fix Android Auto Communication Error 8

Android Auto is a fantastic tool for integrating your phone with your car's infotainment system, but encountering communication errors can be incredibly frustrating. "Communication Error 8" specifically points to a problem with the connection between your smartphone and the vehicle, often a hiccup in data transfer. This guide provides systematic troubleshooting to get Android Auto working again.

Understanding Communication Error 8
Error 8 indicates your car and phone are struggling to establish a stable data connection. This could be due to a faulty cable, a congested USB port, software glitches, or incorrect settings. Let's fix it.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Basic Connection Checks

Inspect and Replace USB Cable: This is the most common culprit. Use a high-quality, short (under 3 feet), USB-IF certified data cable. Avoid frayed or damaged cables. Try a brand new cable even if yours looks fine.
Try a Different USB Port: Your car might have multiple ports; one might be dedicated for data or more reliable.
Clean USB Ports: Dust and lint can prevent a good connection. Gently clean phone and car USB ports with a wooden toothpick or compressed air.

2. Restart Devices

Restart Your Smartphone: A simple reboot often resolves temporary software glitches.
Restart Your Car's Infotainment System: Turn off your car completely, wait a minute, then restart it.

3. Software and App Settings

Update Android Auto & Google Play Services: Ensure both apps are updated to their latest versions from the Google Play Store.
Clear Android Auto Cache and Data:
- Go to Settings > Apps (or Apps & Notifications) > Android Auto.
- Tap Storage & Cache.
- First, Clear Cache, then Clear Storage (or Clear Data). This resets preferences.
- Consider a "Factory Reset" within Android Auto app settings if clearing data doesn't help.
Check for Android OS Updates: Ensure your phone's operating system is up to date.

4. Review Phone and Car Settings

USB Configuration (Developer Options):
- Enable Developer Options (Settings > About Phone > tap Build Number seven times).
- Go to Settings > System > Developer Options.
- Set Default USB Configuration to File Transfer / Android Auto or MTP (Media Transfer Protocol).
Disable USB Debugging: In Developer Options, ensure USB Debugging is turned OFF, as it can interfere.
Check Android Auto Settings on Phone: Open the Android Auto app, go to Settings > Previously connected cars. Ensure your car isn't blocked. You might need to "Forget" it and re-add.
Check Car's Infotainment Settings: Consult your car's manual for specific USB or Android Auto settings.

5. Advanced Test

Test with Another Phone: If available, try connecting a different Android phone to your car. This helps isolate whether the issue is with your specific phone or the car's system.

Conclusion
Communication Error 8 can be persistent, but systematically applying these steps significantly increases your chances of a fix. Most often, a faulty cable or minor software glitch is the culprit. Be patient, and you'll likely get Android Auto running smoothly again.