How to Customize Your Car Icon on Google Maps for Android Auto and CarPlay

Google Maps Car Icon Customization

As of February 2025, Google Maps has introduced a new feature allowing users to customize their car icon during navigation on both Android Auto and CarPlay. This update replaces the standard blue dot/arrow with various vehicle types and customizable colors.

Features:

• Icon Choices: Several different icons are available, including cars, SUVs, and trucks, each with customizable colors.
• Legacy Icons: Three fixed-color legacy icons are also provided.
• Customization Method: Users can change the icon via the Settings button in the trip preview on their phone. Changes must be made before connecting to Android Auto or CarPlay.

How It Works:

• Android Auto and CarPlay: The car icon selected on your phone will sync with your car’s display. However, changes require disconnecting and reconnecting to the system for them to take effect.
• Ongoing Navigation: If navigation is already active without a car connection, a dedicated button in Google Maps allows you to change the icon.

Availability:

• This feature has been rolled out within the past couple of weeks following recent Android Auto updates and is now available on both Android Auto and CarPlay.