Google Maps usually suggests the fastest route by default, but several settings can quietly change that. The most common culprit is fuel-efficient routing, which in some regions picks a route that uses less fuel when the time difference is small. Avoid options for highways, tolls, and ferries can also push you onto slower roads. This guide shows how to make sure Google Maps gives you the fastest route on Android, iPhone, and desktop, and how to pick it manually when several routes appear.
Quick Answer
In the Google Maps app, tap your profile picture > Settings > Navigation (or Navigation settings). Turn off Prefer fuel-efficient routes and turn off Avoid highways, Avoid tolls, and Avoid ferries. When you get directions, choose the route marked Fastest or the one with the shortest time.
Why Google Maps Might Not Show the Fastest Route
| Cause | What happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel-efficient routing is on | Maps may choose a slightly slower route that saves fuel | Turn off Prefer fuel-efficient routes |
| Avoid highways, tolls, or ferries is on | Faster roads are excluded | Turn off the avoid options |
| Wrong travel mode | Walking, transit, or two-wheeler routes differ | Choose the car icon |
| Traffic changes | A route that was fastest may no longer be | Maps offers faster routes during navigation; accept them |
| Location accuracy is poor | Maps misjudges your position | Turn on precise location and Wi-Fi scanning |
Step 1: Turn Off Fuel-Efficient Routing
Android
- Open Google Maps.
- Tap your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Tap Settings, then Navigation (on some versions, Navigation settings).
- Under Route options, turn off Prefer fuel-efficient routes.
iPhone
- Open Google Maps and tap your profile picture.
- Tap Settings > Navigation.
- Turn off Prefer fuel-efficient routes.
This feature is available in select regions, so you may not see it. If you do not, fuel-efficient routing is not affecting your results. You can also set your engine type (gas, diesel, hybrid, electric) in the same area, which influences fuel-efficient suggestions.
Step 2: Turn Off Avoid Options
- In Google Maps, enter a destination and tap Directions.
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right and choose Options (or Route options).
- Turn off Avoid highways, Avoid tolls, and Avoid ferries.
- On Android, check Remember settings if you want this to apply to future trips.
You can also change these defaults in Settings > Navigation > Route options.
Step 3: Choose the Fastest Route
- Enter your destination and tap Directions.
- Make sure the car icon is selected.
- Look at the gray alternative routes on the map. Each shows an estimated travel time.
- Maps highlights the recommended route in blue and may label it Fastest route. Tap a gray route to switch if it is faster.
- Tap Start.
During navigation, if traffic changes and a faster route becomes available, Maps may show a prompt such as "Faster route available". Tap to accept it, or ignore it to stay on your current route. Some prompts switch automatically after a few seconds unless you choose otherwise.
Use the Fastest Route on Desktop
- Go to Google Maps in a web browser and click Directions.
- Enter your start and destination and choose the car icon.
- Click Options and uncheck the avoid options.
- Compare the listed routes and click the one with the shortest time.
- Click Send directions to your phone to use it on the road.
Plan for Future Traffic
If you are leaving later, tap Leave now (on the directions screen) and choose Depart at or Arrive by. Maps estimates travel time based on typical traffic for that time, which helps you choose the fastest route for when you actually drive.
Improve Accuracy
- Allow precise location: on iPhone, Settings > Apps > Google Maps > Location, set to While Using the App with Precise Location on. On Android, long-press the Maps icon, tap App info > Permissions > Location, and choose Use precise location.
- Calibrate: tap the blue location dot and choose Calibrate if the direction is off.
- Keep the app updated from the Play Store or App Store.
Prefer metric? Learn how to change miles to kilometers in Google Maps.
Related: How to Report a Speed Trap on Google Maps.
Related: show Google Maps on your car display.
Related: find alternate routes in Google Maps.
Related: Plan a road trip on Google Maps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Google Maps always show the fastest route?
It usually recommends the fastest, but fuel-efficient routing and avoid settings can change the suggestion. The travel times shown let you confirm which is quickest.
Why does Google Maps show a leaf icon on a route?
The leaf marks the most fuel-efficient route. When it differs from the fastest route, Maps usually shows both so you can choose.
Can I set Google Maps to always avoid fuel-efficient routes?
Yes. Turning off Prefer fuel-efficient routes in navigation settings stops Maps from preferring them.
Is the fastest route always the shortest?
No. The fastest route may be longer in distance but use highways or avoid traffic.
Summary
- Turn off Prefer fuel-efficient routes in Settings > Navigation.
- Turn off Avoid highways, tolls, and ferries in route options.
- Compare travel times and pick the fastest route before tapping Start.
- Accept faster route prompts during navigation.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.