Google recently began rolling out a new Android Auto update, and while it brings incremental improvements, it has also introduced a strange bug that’s confusing some users. According to multiple reports, the update causes the car icon to disappear from Google Maps while using Android Auto.
Google Maps Car Icon Missing on Android Auto
Google Maps is one of the most important features of Android Auto, helping drivers navigate routes, monitor traffic, and track their real-time location. However, affected users say that although Maps continues to function, the car icon — usually shown as a blue arrow or vehicle marker — vanishes from the screen.
When the bug occurs, drivers can still see the map itself, along with navigation guidance and traffic information. The map also continues to move in sync with the car’s location, but there’s no visible indicator showing exactly where the vehicle is positioned on the map.
What Triggers the Issue?
Based on user feedback, the problem appears to be more common among those who have changed their car icon from the default option in Google Maps. That said, some users with default settings enabled are also experiencing the issue.
Many reports suggest the bug is triggered when Google Maps is temporarily pushed off-screen. This often happens when:
- Switching to the car’s built-in infotainment system
- Opening a media or music app within Android Auto
When users return to Google Maps, the car icon may no longer appear.
Linked to Android Auto 16.1 Update?
Although Google has not officially acknowledged the issue, early signs point to the Android Auto 16.1 update as the likely cause. The timing of the reports closely matches the rollout of this version, suggesting the missing car icon is a software glitch rather than a user-side problem.
Is a Fix Coming?
For now, there’s no official word from Google, but this appears to be a minor visual bug that should be easy to fix with a server-side tweak or a future update. If history is anything to go by, Google is likely already aware of the problem and working on a solution.
Hopefully, a fix will arrive in the coming days for users affected by the disappearing car icon on Google Maps via Android Auto.
via: 9to5Google
