How to Fix "No New Messages During This Drive" on Android Auto | A Complete Guide

If you are encountering the "No new messages during this drive" error, you are likely facing one of two distinct issues: a software bug in Android Auto version 16.0 or a compatibility barrier involving third-party apps installed via AAAD (Android Auto App Downloader). While the official Android Auto update has broken replies for some, users of apps like CarStream and Fermata Auto through aaad.app are finding that newer Android versions (14 and above) require specific workarounds to restore functionality.

1. Fixing the AAAD & CarStream "No New Messages" Error

For many users, this error is not actually about text messages; it is a generic message displayed when uncertified apps like those from AAAD are blocked by the system. This is particularly common on devices like the Samsung S23/S24 Ultra, Pixel 7/8 Pro, and OnePlus 9 Pro 5G running Android 14 or 15.

Enable Developer Mode & Unknown Sources

To allow apps from AAAD to run, you must unlock hidden settings within Android Auto:

1. Open Android Auto settings on your smartphone.
2. Scroll to the bottom and tap "Version" or "Version and permission information" 10 times until a prompt confirms you are a developer.
3. Tap the three dots in the top-right corner and select Developer settings.
4. Set the "App Mode" to Developer.
5. Scroll down and check the box for "Unknown sources".
6. Restart your device to ensure the changes take effect.

The "One-Time" Permission Popup

A common reason for the "No new messages" error is accidentally denying a system popup on your phone during the app's first launch. This popup often asks for permissions related to messaging or system overlays. If you select "No" or "Deny," the app will fail to load and display the error message on your car's head unit. To fix this, you may need to reinstall the app through AAAD to trigger the prompt again.

2. The AAWireless Dongle Workaround (For Android 14+)

Users have discovered that standard software fixes often fail on Android 14 or higher. A highly successful solution involves using an AAWireless dongle with its own specific developer settings.

• The Process: Connect your phone to an AAWireless dongle and open the AAWireless companion app.
• Enable Hardware Developer Mode: Navigate to Options > Advanced Options and toggle Developer Mode to ON.
• Why it works: This hardware-level bypass allows apps like CarStream and Fermata Auto to function even when the phone's native software tries to block them.

3. Troubleshooting the Android Auto 16.0 Messaging Bug

If you are using the official Android Auto app and the "Reply" button is broken, you are likely a victim of the version 16.0 bug.

• The Symptoms: Tapping "Reply" triggers an error asking you to contact your Google Workspace administrator, even on personal accounts.
• The Cause: This appears to be a server-side issue affecting Google Workspace (work or school) accounts rather than a local app glitch.
• The Fix: Since clearing cache and reinstalling rarely works for this specific bug, users are advised to use voice commands ("Hey Google, text [Name]") until Google rolls out a patch.

4. Universal Maintenance for All Connection Errors

Clear Cache and Storage Corruption in temporary files can lead to lags, crashes, and "No new messages" errors.

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Android Auto.
2. Select Storage & cache and tap Clear Cache.
3. If issues persist, repeat this for Google Play Services.
4. Force Stop the app and restart your phone to rebuild fresh files.

Disable Aggressive Battery Optimization

Android's "Adaptive Battery" often reverts apps to "Optimized" mode, which can cause audio drops or connection failures in Android Auto.

1. Navigate to Settings > Apps > Android Auto > Battery.
2. Change the setting to Unrestricted.
3. Note: You may need to disable the global "Adaptive Battery" toggle if the system keeps reverting your individual app settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I see old text messages while using CarStream?

A: No. CarStream only supports reading messages received after you have connected to the car. For full message history, you would need to use a phone-mirroring app.

Q: Why does my Samsung phone show two versions of Android Auto?

A: This is a known bug in One UI 7 where the "Dual Messenger" feature duplicates system apps. This duplication causes significant lag and crashes; you must disable the dual app version and force stop both to fix it.

Q: My "Unknown Sources" setting is enabled, but CarStream still won't show up.

A: Ensure you have also selected "Developer" under the "App Mode" setting within the Android Auto Developer menu.

Q: How can I safely read messages if the notification popup is missing?

A: Check your phone's notification settings for the specific messaging app (e.g., Google Messages) and ensure "Pop on screen" is enabled. If this is off on the phone, the popup will often fail to appear on the car screen.

Q: What if my car doesn't support Android Auto at all?

A: You can use Google Assistant Driving Mode (Android 9.0+ with 4GB RAM), which offers a card-based interface and auto-read features for messages via voice commands.