If Android Auto disconnects the moment your phone screen turns off, you’re not imagining it. This usually happens because Android is aggressively limiting background activity to save battery. When the screen sleeps, the system may pause the connection that Android Auto depends on.
The quick fix in most cases is simple: disable battery optimization for Android Auto and keep the USB or wireless connection allowed to run in the background.
Why This Happens
Modern Android versions are designed to shut down apps that appear idle. Unfortunately, Android Auto sometimes gets treated like a background app instead of an active driving service. Once the screen times out, the system may restrict data access, USB activity, or wireless projection.
This behavior is especially common on Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and other devices that add extra battery management on top of standard Android settings.
Turn Off Battery Optimization for Android Auto
This is the most reliable fix and usually solves the issue immediately.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps or Apps & Notifications.
- Find and tap Android Auto.
- Open Battery.
- Select Unrestricted or turn off Battery Optimization.
After changing this, reconnect Android Auto and let the screen turn off naturally to test it.
Allow Background Activity
Some phones separate battery limits from background permissions.
- Open Settings → Apps → Android Auto.
- Tap Mobile Data & Wi-Fi or Background Data.
- Enable Allow background activity.
If your device includes options like “Pause app when unused,” make sure that is disabled.
Check System Power Saving Modes
Global power-saving features can quietly interrupt projection when the screen turns off.
- Open Settings → Battery.
- Turn off Power Saving Mode while using Android Auto.
- If available, exclude Android Auto from adaptive battery or sleeping apps lists.
On some devices, you’ll find a “Deep Sleep Apps” or “App Freeze” list. Remove Android Auto from it.
Verify USB or Wireless Stability
If you’re using a cable connection, the phone may reduce USB power when idle.
- Use a short, high-quality data cable.
- Avoid USB hubs or adapters when possible.
- Try a different USB port in the car if available.
For wireless Android Auto, keep Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled even when the screen locks. Disabling location services can also break wireless projection on some systems, so leave location turned on.
Update Android Auto and System Software
Connection drops tied to screen timeout have been fixed in several updates.
- Open the Play Store.
- Update Android Auto.
- Check Settings → Software Update for system updates.
One Practical Tip
If your phone has a gaming or performance mode, try enabling it temporarily while driving. These modes often prevent background restrictions and can confirm whether battery management is the real cause.
Once Android Auto is allowed to run without battery restrictions, the connection should remain stable even after the screen turns off.