If you rely on Android Auto, you may want to skip the March security update. Growing reports suggest the latest firmware is breaking infotainment systems for many Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices. Here’s what happening and the possible fix to this issue.
Google and Samsung phones have started receiving the March security update, which addresses several concerning security flaws. However, instead of just bringing improvements, the update appears to be causing major issues for Android Auto users. Numerous reports have surfaced of the infotainment service malfunctioning and stopping altogether, disrupting drivers who rely on in-car navigation.
Latest Security Update Breaks Android Auto
Most complaints describe bad and unstable connections on Pixel or Galaxy phones with Android Auto, even when the head unit and the device have already been paired. Some users have encountered an issue where wired pairing is frequently interrupted. These connections now require the host phone to be unlocked first, which contradicts previous behavior where the initial connection happened seamlessly.
At the same time, it appears that wireless connections are not immune either. Users face the same disconnection prompts between the hardware. It is also noted that various vehicle models are impacted, suggesting the issue is not limited to a single car manufacturer.
A Galaxy S24 user on Reddit noted that Android Auto “used to work fine, but suddenly in the last week or so it will only work about 50% of the time.” Meanwhile, on Google’s forums, users ranging from the Pixel 8 to the Pixel 10 have confirmed they are being impacted by the same inconsistent connections regardless of their car model.
Many of these users believe the latest March security update is the culprit, given that the issues emerged immediately after updating. Moreover, the behavior of the bug is said to be associated with the Advanced Device Protection feature. This feature manages the USB protocol for Android Auto, which explains why some connections now require the phone to be unlocked.
Coincidentally, reports from last month highlighted broken voice functionality in Android Auto, with affected users blaming the February security patch, which possibly links the issue to underlying security changes as well.
Potential Fix for Android Auto Frequent Disconnection
While we are still awaiting an official response from Google, concerns are growing as the issue becomes more widespread.
However, there are some workarounds that have reportedly fixed the issue for some. For those on a wired connection, replacing the USB cable with a standard or higher-end alternative could resolve the problem. Other users shared that resetting the car’s head unit was effective in restoring a stable connection.
Overall, these are not permanent fixes, and many drivers still face the same dilemma even after reinstalling the Android Auto service on their devices.
Besides the glitchy Android Auto service, Pixel users have also faced display problems. This leaves the always-on mode unresponsive for those impacted. Unfortunately, there is no official fix for this yet, but Google is said to have acknowledged the bug.
Have you updated to the March 2026 security update? Share your experience in the comments.
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