While the list of Pixel 2/Pixel 2 XL related issues is quite long, it also extends to the Android Auto car unit, which when used with a Pixel 2 smartphone, sometimes fails to connect, even when using a USB cable. Initially, Google responded to the issue back in November by recommending a list of supported and/or working USB cables, but now the company has announced it is rolling out a fix.
Google employee "Yurim" announced in the support thread that users can expect to see the fix being applied to the upcoming monthly security update, which means it will roll out with the February update for Pixel and Nexus devices:
Thanks everyone for your patience. We are working with the Android OS team to address the issues.
For the issue that Android Auto intermittently fails to start, the fix will roll out with upcoming monthly security update. The timing for the security update varies for the devices, countries, carriers, etc. If you are experiencing the issue, please make sure to install the update when it becomes available for you.
It is also mentioned that the update is carrier and country dependent, meaning that Pixel and Nexus owners may not get it when it becomes immediately available.
The fix will, according to PiunikaWeb"s report, also fix "service crashing, Bluetooth and USB connectivity problems" such as the example on the right where the service fails to start with a message that "Android Auto cannot connect right now." or if a continuous "loading" message is observed on the unit.
If you are one of the unfortunate Pixel 2 owners with the Android Auto connectivity issues, you will need to look out for the February security update, which will be announced here, or keep an eye out on Neowin for the announcement.
Source: Google Product Forums via PiunikaWeb