Steering Controls for Android Auto
Steering Controls for Android Auto
Blog Article
Android Auto brings your smartphone's power to your vehicle, letting you drive and navigate, make calls, send messages, and stream music. But what if you could do it all without ever touching the touchscreen? That's what Steering Controls for Android Auto allow you to do.
This article has everything you need to know about integrating steering wheel controls with Android Auto—benefits and compatibility, installation, and the best products.
Why Steering Controls Are Important
Steering controls enable safer, more intuitive access to critical functions such as:
Volume control
Track skipping
Voice assistant launch
Call management
Navigation instructions
Source selection
These controls, when combined with Android Auto, enable hands-on driving with hands-free operation.
How Steering Controls Complement Android Auto
All most all cars with inbuilt steering controls pass commands to the car's head unit through a mechanism such as CAN bus or analog signals. To make them compatible with Android Auto (particularly aftermarket head units), you usually require an interface module or adapter that interprets those signals.
Types of Steering Controls
OEM Built-in Controls
Installed in factory-installed vehicles
Compatible with Android Auto if car's infotainment system allows it
Aftermarket Steering Control Interfaces
Add compatibility between your car buttons and a new Android Auto head unit
Wireless Steering Remotes
Mount on steering wheel
Connect via Bluetooth or IR to Android Auto-compatible devices
Universal Button Kits
Mount anywhere on your wheel
Map functions via Bluetooth to control Android Auto apps
Advantages of Steering Controls for Android Auto
✅ Improved Safety
No reaching for your phone or infotainment screen while driving.
✅ Custom Control
You can map buttons to control:
Music (Play/Pause/Next/Prev)
Navigation (Start route, Repeat last command)
Calls (Answer/End)
Google Assistant (Trigger voice control)
✅ Seamless Driving Experience
Feel like your whole vehicle is smart, even if it's a low-end model.
Top Steering Control Modules Compatible with Android Auto
Product Best For Price (INR)
PAC SWI-RC Aftermarket head units (Pioneer, Kenwood, etc.) ₹3,200
Axxess ASWC-1 Plug-and-play integration ₹4,000
Connects2 CTS Series OEM to aftermarket Android head units ₹3,500–₹5,500
Boss Audio Universal Budget option for basic remapping ₹2,200
Bluetooth Remote Button Add-on for Android Auto phones ₹1,800–₹2,500
Installation Guide for Steering Control Modules
Identify Your Vehicle and Head Unit
Determine whether your steering controls are CAN, analog, or resistive.
Select a Compatible Interface
Consult manufacturer charts or utilize PAC or Axxess tools.
Connect Wires
Typically involves connecting ground, signal, and power wires between the module and head unit.
Programming
Most modules automatically detect buttons, but some need manual assignment through app or remote.
Test All Buttons
Verify proper function for volume, call, navigation, and voice commands.
Using Voice with Steering Controls
Numerous steering control modules are capable of a specific button to invoke Google Assistant. You may utter the following:
"Navigate home"
"Call Dad"
"Play Hindi pop playlist"
"Send message on WhatsApp"
This works perfectly in conjunction with Android Auto, removing distractions.
Aftermarket Android Auto Head Units with Steering Support
If you are replacing your infotainment system, ensure the new unit:
Supports SWC (Steering Wheel Control)
Provides a dedicated input for control modules
Is compatible with Android Auto (wired/wireless)
Popular brands: Sony, Pioneer, Kenwood, Blaupunkt, ATOTO
FAQs Regarding Steering Controls and Android Auto
Q: Is it possible to install steering controls in a vehicle that does not have them?
A: Yes. Universal button kits can be installed on your wheel and synchronized with Android Auto-compatible devices.
Q: Do I have to reprogram my vehicle?
A: Typically no. Interface modules automatically translate signals.
Q: Will these controls be compatible with wireless Android Auto?
A: Yes. Steering signals pass through the head unit, not to your phone directly.
Best Practices
Utilize labeled wiring harnesses to prevent confusion at install.
Mount external remotes in thumb reach for convenient access.
Clean buttons and test for responsiveness on a regular basis.
Use steering controls together with Google Assistant for complete hands-free functionality.
Who Needs Steering Controls for Android Auto?
✅ Daily commuters – For safely answering calls on the go
✅ Delivery or rideshare drivers – Navigate and manage calls/music efficiently
✅ Tech enthusiasts – Complete your Android Auto smart setup
✅ Owners of older cars – Upgrade functionality without a new vehicle
Conclusion
Steering controls for Android Auto transform your driving experience by making it safer, smoother, and smarter. Whether you’re installing a new head unit or just want better control of your tech while driving, steering controls are a must-have upgrade.
With the proper interface and a couple of minutes of configuration, voice commands, call control, navigation, and media are at your fingertips, all without glancing away from the road.