When you’re on the road, the last thing you want is for Google Maps to suddenly change your route without warning. It can be annoying and confusing, especially if you’re not sure why it’s happening. Fortunately, there’s a way to stop Google Maps from doing this, and it’s pretty straightforward. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll be on your way without any unexpected detours.
How to Stop Google Maps from Changing Route Tutorial
Sometimes, you just want to stick to the route you’ve chosen, regardless of traffic or other factors. The following steps will help you do just that.
Step 1: Open Google Maps
Open the Google Maps app on your phone.
Before you start your trip, make sure you have the app open and ready to go. This is where you’ll make the necessary changes to ensure your route stays the same.
Step 2: Enter Your Destination
Type in your destination and start the navigation.
Once you’ve got your starting point and destination set, Google Maps will typically provide you with the best possible route. But if you want to stick to a specific route, you’ll need to move on to the next step.
Step 3: Tap on the Three Dots
Tap on the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
This will bring up a menu with more options for your trip. It’s a little hidden, so don’t worry if you’ve never noticed it before!
Step 4: Choose "Route Options"
Select "Route options" from the menu.
In this section, you’ll be able to customize your trip preferences. This is key to preventing any unwanted changes to your route.
Step 5: Disable "Avoid Highways" and "Avoid Tolls"
Uncheck the boxes for "Avoid highways" and "Avoid tolls" if they are selected.
By default, Google Maps might try to avoid highways and tolls, which can sometimes result in a change of route. Make sure these options are not selected if you don’t want that to happen.
Step 6: Turn Off "Switch to Faster Route"
Turn off the option for "Switch to Faster Route."
This is the crucial step. By turning off this option, Google Maps will no longer automatically change your route if it thinks there’s a faster way. You can now navigate without worrying about any surprise changes.
After completing these steps, your chosen route should remain consistent throughout your trip. You won’t have to deal with any more unexpected rerouting unless you manually choose to change the path.
Tips for Preventing Google Maps from Changing Route
- Always double-check your route options before starting navigation.
- Keep an eye on the map for any upcoming changes, even with these settings adjusted.
- If you’re driving in an area with poor signal, your route might change unexpectedly.
- Remember to turn "Switch to Faster Route" back on if you want Google Maps to help you avoid traffic in the future.
- If you’re using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, these settings might be slightly different, so take some time to familiarize yourself with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Google Maps change routes automatically?
Google Maps changes routes automatically to avoid traffic and save you time on your trip.
Can I change the route back if Google Maps changes it?
Yes, you can always manually change the route back by dragging the path on the map to your preferred roads.
Will these settings be saved for future trips?
Yes, once you adjust these settings, they should be saved for your future trips until you change them again.
What if I miss a turn, will Google Maps change the route?
If you miss a turn, Google Maps will still provide you with a new route, but it will try to get you back on your original path as soon as possible.
Can I make Google Maps avoid a specific road or area?
Yes, you can avoid specific roads or areas by adding a stop to your route and dragging the path around the area you want to avoid.
Summary
- Open Google Maps.
- Enter your destination and start navigation.
- Tap on the three dots in the top right corner.
- Choose "Route options."
- Disable "Avoid Highways" and "Avoid Tolls."
- Turn off "Switch to Faster Route."
Conclusion
Navigating with Google Maps can be a seamless experience, but sometimes you just want to stick to the route you know. Whether it’s due to familiarity, road preferences, or simply wanting to avoid the hassle of adjusting to a new route mid-trip, knowing how to stop Google Maps from changing your route is a valuable tip for any traveler. By following the steps outlined above, you can take control of your journey and ensure that your trip goes exactly as planned.
Remember, technology is there to assist, not dictate. By personalizing your settings and understanding the features available to you, you can tailor Google Maps to suit your specific needs. So next time you’re headed out on the road, take a few moments to adjust your route options. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in the enjoyment and predictability of your trip. Safe travels!
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.