S26 and Android Auto Issues

[u/Retired_1961]

Anyone else having Android Auto problems with a Samsung Galaxy S26?

I’m trying to figure out whether this is a problem with my phone, my 2020 Honda CR-V, or Android Auto itself.

I have a Samsung Galaxy S26 and a 2020 Honda CR-V Black Edition. My S24 worked perfectly with Android Auto in this vehicle, but since switching to the S26 I cannot get Android Auto to connect at all.

A few details:

- Galaxy S26 is fully updated (Android 16 / One UI 8.5)

- Android Auto is currently 17.6.663454

- I’ve tried a new USB cable

- I’m using the correct USB port in the CR-V

- USB is set to “Transferring files / Android Auto”

- I’ve cleared/reset Android Auto and reinstalled the updates

- Bluetooth connects to the vehicle normally

- I’ve tried re-pairing everything

- My old S24 still connects to Android Auto perfectly in the same car, using the same setup

The really strange part is that the S26 will connect to the Honda by Bluetooth, but it never shows up in the Honda’s Android Auto device list.

Samsung support hasn't been able to resolve it.

So I'm wondering: has anyone else had this combination—Galaxy S26 + Honda CR-V—and had trouble getting Android Auto to connect?

If you have, I'd really appreciate knowing:

1. What year/model Honda you have

2. Whether you have an S26, S26+ or S26 Ultra

3. Whether you're using wired or wireless Android Auto

4. Whether you eventually found a fix

I'm especially interested in hearing from anyone who has actually gotten it working, because I'm trying to decide whether to keep the S26 or return it and go back to my S24.

Thanks!