Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.

ZDNET's key takeaways

• Tweaks can drastically improve how your Android Auto operates. 
• Even the type of cable you use can have a big impact.
• Wired Android Auto operates more efficiently than wireless.

Android Auto can be one of the most useful things about your phone, but if it ever lags or freezes, it can be more frustrating than helpful. Fortunately, there are some easy fixes if your car's infotainment system is feeling sluggish. And with YouTube coming soon to your car, it's not a bad time to check in to make sure your system is optimized.

I tried each of these four myself, and my Android Auto ended up a lot faster, more responsive, and more smooth.

Also: My 4 favorite Android Auto settings are seriously useful - but hidden by default

How to fix lagging Android Auto

Connect with the data cable instead of wirelessly

The easiest way to see a big jump in your Android Auto performance is to use a wired cable through your car's port. Wireless Android Auto is convenient, but it's often noticeably slower than the alternative. I compared the two versions this week, and I could immediately tell the difference.

The wired connection removes latency and compression; I noticed improvements in almost every aspect of the interface, including how quickly apps launched, how responsive the touchscreen was, how smoothly I could scroll through maps, and how quickly Gemini responded. 

Also: I've used Android Auto for years, and these 5 changes solved my biggest issues

Wireless Android Auto is more demanding on your phone, too, so you'll use more battery life. For every single reason other than convenience, you're better off using the wired connection.

Use a high-speed data cable

While we're discussing cables, make sure you have a good one because a cheap or old cable is the source of many Android Auto problems. Not all cables are the same, and not all cables are made for data transfer. This is one of those times when you want to pay more for quality. 

The cheap cable at the gas station or the one at the checkout counter at the big box store probably won't give you the best Android Auto experience if it's intended to be a charging cable. Many cars use an older USB 2.0 connection, but a lot have upgraded to USB 3.0. Especially in newer vehicles, make sure you're using a 3.0 cable, or at least a data-capable cable that's rated for high speeds. I tried running Android Auto with a random cable from my junk drawer and a high-speed data cable, and the difference was obvious. 

Close excessive apps on your phone

Phones today are essentially mini computers, and just like your laptop or desktop, your phone can get bogged down if too many apps are running at once. Android Auto is only as good as the phone running it, so if your phone is laggy, your car's screen will be too. 

Also: Google will let you watch YouTube videos on Android Auto now - is your car supported?

If Android Auto seems slow, make sure no apps are running in the background on your phone. Check to see if you have multiple navigation apps open, or if your favorite game, streaming service, or social media app is active. 

Turn off battery optimization

Battery life is a big selling point in modern phones, and many times, a phone will throttle apps it thinks are using too much battery. Throttling could take several forms, including slowing background processes, delaying notifications, and limiting wireless activity. Go to Settings > Apps > Android Auto > App battery usage, and make sure "Allow background usage" is on. It's not a bad idea to do this for apps Android Auto uses often, too, like Google Maps, Spotify, and YouTube Music.