If you are trying to use Google Maps on Android but keep getting a "GPS Signal Lost" or "Searching for GPS" error message there's a good chance you've got a minor issue you need to deal with. Don't worry it's more than likely just a setting that needs updating or a little bug that needs to be cleared out. So follow along as we guide you through the steps to fix this issue.
Takeaways:
- Learn how to fix GPS Signal Lost in Google Maps on Android
- Learn how to fix Searching for GPS errors in Google Maps on Android
Table of Contents
How to Fix GPS Signal Lost or Searching for GPS Errors in Google Maps on Android
“GPS Signal Lost” or “Searching for GPS” errors in Google Maps on Android usually appear when the app can’t maintain a strong, stable GPS connection during navigation. This often happens if the app loses permission to access location in the background, if aggressive battery optimisation cuts off GPS, or if recent updates, corrupted app data, or background process failures disrupt location tracking. However, it can also sometimes be a caching issue.
Restart Your Phone (Obviously!)
A restart refreshes GPS sensors, clears temporary glitches, and restarts background processes that might be blocking location tracking. It also re-establishes mobile data or Wi-Fi connections, which can help restore GPS functionality.
Allow Location Access “All the Time”
Google Maps needs uninterrupted GPS access for accurate navigation. If location permission is set to “While using the app,” Android may cut off access when the screen is off or another app is in use. Changing it to “Allow all the time” ensures continuous tracking.
- Go to Settings > Search “Google Maps” > Maps
- Tap Permissions > Location
- Select Allow all the time
- Reopen Google Maps and start navigation to test
Clear App Cache and Data (Google Maps and Android Auto)
Old or corrupted cached data can disrupt GPS. Clearing both Google Maps and Android Auto storage removes outdated logs and fixes related glitches.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Google Maps
- Tap Storage & Cache > Clear cache > Clear data
- Repeat for Android Auto
- Restart your phone
Enable Background Activity for Google Maps
If Android restricts background activity to save battery, GPS tracking may stop when the screen is off. Set Maps to unrestricted mode.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Google Maps
- Tap Battery
- Select Unrestricted
- Restart Google Maps and test navigation
Uninstall Recent Google Maps Updates
Occasionally, new updates contain bugs that affect GPS. Rolling back to a previous version can resolve this.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Google Maps
- Tap the three-dot menu in the upper-right
- Select Uninstall updates and confirm
- Open Google Maps and check if navigation works normally
