Having a car with Android Auto provides a significant advantage over using your phone with a holder, as the interface has been adapted to be more comfortable, safer and more convenient while driving. But if you don’t have a screen with Google’s infotainment system in your car, that’s okay: there are other ways to have Android Auto in the car. Fortunately, Updating a car to install Android Auto doesn’t have to be expensive.

The first thing that probably crosses your mind is to buy a double DIN radio with Android Auto to replace your own radio. This decision costs several hundred euros and although you can change it yourself, it depends on your expertise and knowledge, you may prefer to go to specialist personnel. Another more affordable alternative that doesn’t require installation or modification to your car is to purchase a screen similar to this one from Carpuride, which we tested. However, there are also models that cost around 30 Euros and work moderately well. If you’re a maker, this option with the Raspberry Pi can be an interesting and affordable challenge at the same time. But if you want to spend as little money as possible, this is the best alternative. Use Android Auto for free or almost free and also recycle it.

With an app and an old Android tablet or mobile phone

It is relatively normal to have a mobile phone at home, which we keep in the drawer just in case (in my case, when I go to San Fermines) and replace it with a newer one, or even a tablet that we hardly ever use. Well, even if it’s a few years old and not the strongest thing in the world, it’s still enough. Practically have Android Auto in your car without spending a single euro.

Of course, you’ll need a compatible support since you’ll need to place it horizontally on an area of ​​the front panel. Next, you’ll just need an internet connection to turn your old phone into an Android Auto (your own phone can act as a hotspot) and head to the Google Play Store to download Headunit Reloaded.

Our advice is to download the free trial version to see if it convinces you, and if that is the case, open your wallet to pay the 4.89 euros that the full version costs. It’s not free, but it definitely is. Cheapest way to have Android Auto in the car.

Bonus: If you already have a display with Android installed (but not Android Auto)

This is a somewhat special case involving possession. a screen in the car with Android but not Android Autobut in essence we will do the same: go to the Play Store and download Head Unit Reloaded. We insist: In a few minutes, you will be able to use the interface to use Android Auto both wired and wireless, just by following the on-screen steps.

During this process you will need to access developer options and as before you will also need internet. You can then connect from the console, accept permissions, and configure Android Auto from scratch, step by step.

Xataka on Android | I have an old car: All ways to install Android Auto in it (applies to every car)

Cover | Alejandro Alcolea and Google Inc. Photo montage by, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons