Android Auto volume low error: how to fix audio settings

In this article, we'll look at all the reasons why there are problems with sound playback through Android Auto. Let's look at what sound settings can help restore the volume of the car audio system or Android.

1. How to increase the volume in Spotify

If you're used to listening to music through Spotify, you may have trouble with the volume in that app individually. Android Auto users have noted that the volume of voice notifications stays at normal levels, while the music player volume gets quieter or changes at inappropriate times.

Solution.

You need to go into your Spotify settings and check your audio settings. Through the settings, you can change the volume by adjusting the mixer sliders to the desired level. Here are instructions on how to do this:

1. Launch the Spotify app on your device.
2. Select the song or album you want to play.
3. Tap the volume icon in the bottom left corner of the screen.
4. Drag the slider to the right to increase the volume.
5. If you want to increase the volume even more, tap the gear icon in the top right corner of the screen.
6. Select “Equalizer Settings” and then adjust the sliders to increase the volume.
7. Tap "Done" to save your changes.

2. Increase the volume through the head unit

Sometimes the navigation sound in Android Auto disappears suddenly. Adjusting the volume via Android Auto does not help to solve the problem. In this case, it is recommended to change the volume using the hardware head unit control buttons instead of the software method.

Solution.

Each head unit has its own volume settings. These can be used to increase the volume of both Android Auto, and other apps that are used on the head unit.

In order to change the volume using the vehicle's capabilities, you will need to study the vehicle's device by opening its manual. You can find it in paper form or as a pdf file on the manuals website.

You need to find the following information: head unit volume controls. Using these hardware buttons, you will be able to fix the sound in Android Auto without actually using the phone's own settings.

3. Deactivate the built-in equalizer

Owners of OnePlus devices (e.g. 6T) on the forum share a problem: the sound settings in Android Auto do not work, the volume remains at a low level. No action helps, and playing music at minimum volume. In addition, the sound sounds distorted.

Solution.

Check to see if there are any other equalizers installed on your phone. To do this.

Step 1. Go to Settings - Apps.

Step 2. Make sure there are no apps named Equalizer in the list.

Step 3. If necessary, remove all unnecessary apps and audio add-ons that may affect the overall volume of the head unit and Android Auto.

4. Disable the audio player equalizer

If you are listening to music via Spotify and notice the volume drop in Android Auto, disable normalize sound by going into Spotify settings.

Step 1. Open the Music app on your Android device - AIMP, for example.

Step 2. Select the song you want to turn off the equalizer for.

Step 3. Tap the three vertical dots button in the upper-right corner of the screen.

Step 4. Select "Settings" from the drop-down menu.

Step 5. Tap "Equalizer".

Step 6. Toggle the switch next to "Equalizer" to the off position.

Step 7. Tap "OK" to confirm the change.

5. Unplug and replug the USB connection

The sound problem is often observed not only on Spotify, but also on streaming services like Google Play and YouTube Music. Changing the volume via head unit does not produce the desired result.

Solution.

If Android Auto is running via USB connection, disconnect the cable and reconnect it to the car. With this simple action, you will reset the audio settings on your phone. Properly, this helps normalize the sound not only for in-car navigation, but also for apps like Google Play or YouTube Music.

If this action didn't help, additionally check the volume settings through another audio player. For example, go into the radio or XM and check if the volume settings have been restored to the level you are comfortable with.

6. Reset phone to factory settings

Hard reset is a universal way to reset your phone to its original factory settings:

Step 1. Go to Settings - General management - Reset.

Step 2. Tap on Reset - Reset all settings.

After hard reset your Android device will be available in the same state as after its purchase. All the applications will work steadily and without errors.

7. Update Android Auto and Android OS

After hard reset, we advise you to update your Android system as well as the Android Auto app. Here are official instructions. Read it to restore your phone settings.

This step will allow you to get your volume settings back and fix any Android system conflicts related to misconfiguration.

7. Restart phone and vehicle's infotainment system

Another way to fix the sound on your Android device is to restart the infotainment system in your car, and your phone at the same time.

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to do this:

Video how to restart Android phone:

Then restart your car engine:

1. Turn off your vehicle's engine and wait for the infotainment system to power down.
2. Open the hood of the vehicle and locate the battery.
3. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery.
4. Wait for at least five minutes before reconnecting the battery cable.
5. Turn on the vehicle and wait for the infotainment system to power up.
6. Press the power button on the infotainment system and hold it for at least five seconds.
7. Release the power button and wait for the system to reboot.
8. Allow the system to complete its restart process.
9. Once the restart process is complete, test the infotainment system to ensure that it is functioning properly.