As vehicles continue to develop into smarter, more connected vehicles, having the capacity for controlling infotainment systems without removing hands from the steering wheel has become at once a luxury and a matter of safety necessity. With Android Auto becoming more popular across the board of vehicles, demand for steering control kits supporting Android Auto is developing extremely quickly—particularly among owners of older or aftermarket-upgraded vehicles.
If you just installed Android Auto in your vehicle or will retro it, a compatible steering control interface can assist in maintaining or regaining your vehicle's original steering wheel buttons. This allows you to manage music, directions, calls, and voice commands—all without distraction.
What Are Steering Control Kits?
Steering control kits (Steering Control Kits with Android Auto Capability) enable your car's steering wheel buttons to talk to your infotainment system. Combined with Android Auto-compatible head units, the adapters fill the gap between new software platforms and old hardware.
They usually come with:
Tiny interface module
Vehicle-specific wiring harness
Sometimes software to program or map button functions
Why Steering Controls are Important with Android Auto
???? Improved Driving Experience
One of the primary objectives of Android Auto is to minimize driver distraction. Steering-mounted controls assist you:
Switch tracks
Adjust volume
Invoke Google Assistant
Answer or reject a call
—all without taking your hands off the screen or smartphone.
???? Muscle Memory and Ergonomics
Drivers have become used to haptic feedback from steering-wheel buttons. Retaining that feature adds convenience and safety to daily driving.
???? Seamless Integration After a Retrofit
When swapping out a factory infotainment unit for an Android Auto head unit, native steering control compatibility is typically lost. The kits reinstate it, giving the changeover a factory-finished feel.
How Steering Control Kits Function
Signal Translation: Older cars tend to utilize analog signals or resistive controls, whereas newer systems (such as Android Auto head units) utilize digital commands. The kit functions as a translator.
Plug & Play or Wired Install: Directly plugging into the car's CAN bus or stereo wiring, some kits are; others need splicing by hand.
Programming: The adapter can auto-detect your car and head unit, or you'll have to set button functions manually.
Types of Steering Control Kits
1. Universal Adapters
Universal adapters fit many different types of cars and aftermarket Android Auto solutions. Axxess, Connects2, and PAC are brands at the forefront of this type.
Pros: Widely compatible, tunable options
Cons: Possible need for professional installation
2. Car-Specific Kits
Plug-and-play kits made to work on a specific model or make, featuring quicker installation.
Pros: Convenient installation, reduced wiring
Cons: Limited applications for specific head units or cars
3. Built-in Integration (with Head Units)
High-end Android Auto head units from manufacturers like Pioneer or Kenwood feature integrated support for steering control with an add-on interface.
Pros: Fewer units to work with
Cons: Might still require a standalone harness based on the car
Top Steering Control Interfaces for Android Auto
BrandtModeltCompatible WithtPrice (Approx)tNotable Features
Axxess ASWC-1tUniversaltMost cars & head unitst₹3,000–₹4,500tAuto-detection, little setup
Connects2 CTS SeriestCar-SpecifictToyota, Hyundai, Honda, etc.t₹4,000–₹7,000tOEM integration, plug-and-play
PAC SWI-RCtUniversaltKenwood, JVC, Pioneert₹3,000tManual programming
Resonate SWC KittUniversal (India)tSony, Blaupunkt, Pioneert₹2,000–₹3,500tInexpensive, reliable
CarHatke Custom InterfacestCar-specifictMaruti, Tata, Mahindrat₹3,500–₹6,000tLocal support & compatibility
Installation Considerations
✅ Know Your Vehicle's Compatibility
Check your car’s make, model, and year. Some cars use CAN bus systems; others use analog or resistive controls.
✅ Choose the Right Adapter for Your Head Unit
Even if your car's interface is correct, the adapter also needs to support your specific Android Auto head unit brand.
✅ Programming May Be Required
Some kits automatically map functions like volume and track control. Others require manual setup using dip switches or software.
✅ Consider Professional Installation
Unless you’re experienced with car wiring, hiring a technician ensures a clean, safe, and functional setup.
Benefits of Using a Steering Control Kit with Android Auto
✅ Hands-Free Access
Use Google Assistant without touching the screen—just long-press the voice button on your steering wheel.
✅ Full Control of Entertainment
Switch music tracks, adjust volume, or change sources without fumbling through menus.
✅ Enhanced Safety
Leave your hands on the steering and eyes on the road, particularly during heavy traffic or highways.
✅ Factory-Like Experience
With proper installation, the process of converting a stock stereo to a smart Android Auto experience seems smooth and OEM-like.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Problem Retail Cause Solution
Buttons not responding Incorrect wiring or unsupported head unit Use proper harness; update firmware
Partial function only Incompatible software version Check adapter's compatibility chart
Head unit won't recognize adapterLoose or blown porttReconnect securely; check for continuity
Button press lagtPoor signal processingtTry a better-quality adapter with quicker processing
Where to Buy in India
???? Online Retailers
Amazon India
Flipkart
CarHatke
Boodmo
AliExpress (for specialty adapters)
???? Local Auto Accessory Stores
Good for testing out kits before purchasing, and assistance with installation.
???? Brand Service Centers
Pioneer, Blaupunkt, and Sony usually have authorized resellers who stock compatible kits and can advise on supported hardware.
Budget Guide: What to Expect
Budget What You Get
₹2,000–₹3,500 Basic universal adapter, potential DIY installation
₹4,000–₹6,000 Car-specific adapter, plug-and-play cable
₹7,000+ Fancy kits with advanced signal processing and quick response times
Future of Steering Integration with Android Auto
As cars get more digitized, look out for more advanced integrations like:
Gesture controls and touch-sensitive steering buttons
Custom button programming through app
Wireless communications between wheel and head unit
Voice profile detection to customize user experiences
Already, some premium kits incorporate other sensor data such as reverse or parking assist into Android Auto-compatible screens.
Final Thoughts
If you've already upgraded your car with Android Auto—or are about to—the next upgrade in convenience and safety is installing a steering control kit. These adapters allow you to keep all the functionality of your steering wheel buttons, offering a smooth transition between new infotainment and old vehicle hardware.
With solutions to fit every car model and budget, and an easy enough installation to do yourself, this feature brings outstanding value to the table and enhances daily driving comfort. Whether you're driving through traffic, riding down the highway, or simply cruising to your favorite playlist, smart steering control integration puts everything at your fingertips.