Google Maps is one of the most used apps in the extensive Google ecosystem found on Android. Usually, it’s reliable and brings navigation, exploring, and much more to millions of smartphones. However, we run into more than a few reports about Google Maps crashing on Android.
If you are affected by certain issues on Google Maps for Android, check the steps we listed below.
Table of contents:
- Update the app
- Clear app cache and data
- Reinstall the app
- Leave the Beta program
- Check permissions
- Install an older APK version
Why does Google Maps keep crashing on Android?
There’s a variety of reasons why this would happen so it’s hard to pinpoint the exact culprit. What you should do immediately is reboot your device and try accessing Google Maps again.
In case that doesn’t work, make sure to go through the steps we listed below.
Solution 1 – Update the app
The first step to take if Google Maps is crashing or won’t open is to ensure that the app is up to date. Updates are usually automatically administered but it won’t cost you to check for the latest version of Google Maps in the Google Play Store.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Open the Play Store.
- Tap on the hamburger menu and open My apps & games.
- Under the Updates tab, tap Update all.
Solution 2 – Clear apps cache and data
The next applicable step is to clear the locally stored cache and data from Google Maps. That way, you’ll reset the app and make it re-initialize.
Follow these instructions to clear cache and data from Google Maps on Android:
- Open Settings.
- Choose Apps.
- Select Manage apps, App manager, or All apps.
- Locate and open Google Maps.
- Tap Storage.
- Clear Cache and then Clear Data.
- Reboot your device.
Solution 3 – Reinstall the app
If the previous steps failed to resolve Google Maps crashing on Android, make sure to give it a go-to reinstallation. Many users were able to resolve the problem by simply reinstalling the app.
Here’s how to reinstall Google Maps and avoid further crashes:
- Navigate to the Play Store.
- Locate Google Maps.
- Uninstall the app.
- Install the app again and then reboot your phone.
Solution 4 – Leave the Beta program
In case you are a beta tester for Google Maps, make sure to leave the program. The Beta versions might bring new features faster but the public version is the way to go if you want to avoid issues.
Follow these steps to leave the Beta program for Google Maps:
- Open the Play Store again.
- Search and select Google Maps.
- Scroll down and, under the You’re a beta tester section, tap Leave.
- Wait until the changes are made and reinstall the app.
Solution 5 – Check permissions
Alternatively, make sure that all the necessary permissions are granted. Usually, Google Maps require solely the Location Services permission, but for the sake of troubleshooting, we recommend enabling all remaining permissions.
Here’s how to check permissions for Google Maps on Android:
- Navigate again to Settings > Apps > All apps > Maps.
- Tap Permissions.
- Ensure that all required permissions are granted and try opening Google Maps again.
Solution 6 – Install an older APK version
Finally, if the current version won’t work, we can only recommend downgrading via an APK. All app versions to date are available on third-party websites and can be downloaded and sideloaded onto your device.
Follow these instructions to install an older APK version of Google Maps:
- Uninstall Google Maps.
- Navigate to APK Mirror or any other APK hub online.
- Download an older APK version but not older than two months.
- Grant permission to install apps from untrusted sources.
- Install the APK and give it a go.
If you are experiencing Google Maps not talking directions issue, you can explore it in this article. Thank you for reading and tell us if this was helpful or not in the comments section below. We look forward to your feedback.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in December 2019. We made sure to revamp it for freshness and accuracy.
