Send Google Maps Directions to Your Car (Send-to-Car in 2026)
Can you send Google Maps directions to your car? In 2010, Google Maps had a Send-to-Car button: you planned a route on your computer, sent the destination to your car, and the built-in navigation took over. It started with BMW Assist and grew to Audi, Ford SYNC, GM OnStar and more than 20 car brands in 19 countries. That button is gone now, but there are easier ways to send a Google Maps destination to your car in 2026.
Quick answer: To send Google Maps directions to your car in 2026, search the place on your computer, click Send to your phone, then start navigation on your phone and connect it to the car with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Cars with Google built-in show the same Google Maps saved places and recent searches when you sign in with your Google Account. Some carmakers’ apps also have their own send-to-car feature.
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What was Google Maps Send-to-Car?
Google launched Send-to-Car in 2007 with BMW. You searched a place on Google Maps, clicked Send, chose your car brand and entered your account details, and the address appeared in the car’s navigation system. Audi joined, then Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles with Ford SYNC, and later millions of GM vehicles with OnStar. The feature was dropped from Google Maps when Google redesigned the service, as phones took over car navigation.
How to send Google Maps directions to your car today
1. Send to your phone, then use Android Auto or CarPlay
- On your computer, open Google Maps and sign in.
- Search the destination or get directions.
- Click Send to your phone and pick your phone. You get a notification on your phone.
- Tap the notification to open Google Maps, then plug in or connect wirelessly to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Navigation appears on the car screen.
2. Cars with Google built-in
Many newer cars from brands like Volvo, Polestar, Renault, Ford and GM run Google built-in. Sign in with the same Google Account, and your saved places, recent searches and starred locations from Google Maps are available on the car screen. Plan on your computer, save the place, and it is waiting in the car.
3. Your car brand’s app
Carmakers like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Hyundai and Tesla have their own apps that can send a destination to the car’s navigation. Many also let you share a location from Google Maps on your phone into their app.
Tips for planning car trips with Google Maps
- Download offline maps before travelling to areas with weak mobile signal.
- Add stops in order before you leave, so you are not editing the route while driving.
- Use the Explore tab to find fuel, EV charging and food along the route.
- Share your trip progress with family from the navigation screen.
- Set up the route before you drive; never use your phone while driving.
Like exploring places from your desk? See how Google maps hiking trails with the Street View Trekker.
FAQ
Does Google Maps still have Send to Car?
No. The old Send-to-Car button is gone. Use Send to your phone with Android Auto or CarPlay, or Google built-in in supported cars.
How do I send a location from Google Maps to my car?
Share it to your phone, then open it in Google Maps or your carmaker’s app while connected to the car.
Do I need Android Auto to use Google Maps in my car?
No, but it puts Maps on the car’s screen with bigger buttons and voice control. Otherwise, use a phone mount.
Can I send directions from Google Maps on a PC to an iPhone?
Yes. If you are signed in to Google Maps on the iPhone with the same account, Send to your phone delivers it as a notification.
