Android Auto Not Displaying Text Messages A Troubleshooting Odyssey.

Android Auto not displaying text messages – it’s a common frustration, turning your in-car experience from a seamless extension of your digital life into a frustrating dance with silence. Imagine, you’re cruising down the highway, the radio’s playing your favorite tune, and you’re expecting a vital message. Instead, you’re met with… nothing. This isn’t just about missing a text; it’s about losing connection, missing out, and feeling disconnected in a world that thrives on staying connected.

This journey delves into the mysteries of why your texts might be AWOL, transforming this annoyance into an opportunity to regain control of your in-car communication.

We’ll embark on a journey, exploring the hidden corners of your phone, the depths of your car’s infotainment system, and the often-overlooked connection points that could be causing the issue. From simple restarts to deep dives into software settings, we’ll uncover the secrets to getting those text messages back on your screen. Along the way, we’ll address compatibility quirks, Bluetooth blunders, and app glitches, all while providing practical solutions and insightful advice.

This isn’t just a technical guide; it’s a quest to restore the harmony between your digital life and your driving experience, ensuring that every message arrives loud and clear.

Table of Contents

Troubleshooting Android Auto Text Message Display Issues

Android auto not displaying text messages

It can be incredibly frustrating when your text messages fail to appear on your Android Auto display. Imagine being mid-navigation, and missing crucial updates because your system isn’t cooperating. This guide offers practical solutions to diagnose and fix the most common problems. Let’s get your texts back on track, safely and efficiently.

Common Reasons for Text Message Display Failures

Understanding the root causes of the issue is the first step toward resolution. Several factors can interfere with the seamless display of text messages within Android Auto.

Connectivity Issues: A weak or unstable Bluetooth or USB connection between your phone and the car’s infotainment system is a frequent culprit. This can manifest as intermittent display failures or delayed message notifications.
Software Glitches: Bugs within the Android Auto app, your phone’s operating system, or the car’s infotainment system can all contribute to display problems. These glitches can range from minor hiccups to complete message display blackouts.
App Permissions: Android Auto requires specific permissions to access and display your text messages. If these permissions are not granted or have been inadvertently revoked, message display will be blocked.
Compatibility Problems: Older or outdated versions of the Android Auto app or the car’s infotainment system might not be fully compatible with your phone’s software, leading to display inconsistencies.
Message Blocking: Some third-party apps or settings on your phone may be configured to block or filter text messages, preventing them from being displayed within Android Auto.

Restarting Phone and Car Infotainment System

A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches. This process involves restarting both your phone and the car’s system.

Restarting Your Phone: This is the most basic troubleshooting step. Simply power off your Android phone completely, wait a few seconds, and then power it back on. This clears temporary files and resets background processes.
Restarting Your Car’s Infotainment System: The method for restarting your car’s infotainment system varies depending on the make and model. Usually, you can find a reset button or menu option within the system settings. Consult your car’s manual for specific instructions. Some systems may require holding down the power button for a few seconds. Others have a dedicated “reset” button.
Restarting the Android Auto Connection: After restarting both devices, disconnect and reconnect your phone to Android Auto. Try using a different USB cable, if applicable. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled and paired if you’re using a wireless connection.

Checking for Software Updates

Outdated software is a common cause of display problems. Keeping your phone and car’s systems up to date is crucial.

Updating Your Phone’s Software: Go to your phone’s settings, typically under “System” or “About Phone,” and look for “Software Update.” Download and install any available updates. Regular updates include bug fixes and performance enhancements that can resolve display issues.
Updating the Android Auto App: Open the Google Play Store on your phone, search for “Android Auto,” and check if an update is available. If so, install it. Updated apps often address compatibility issues and introduce new features.
Updating Your Car’s Infotainment System: Check your car’s manual or visit the manufacturer’s website to find instructions on how to update your infotainment system. This often involves downloading an update file to a USB drive and then installing it in your car. Some cars have over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Clearing Cache and Data for the Android Auto App

Clearing the cache and data can often resolve issues caused by corrupted files or incorrect settings within the Android Auto app. This is a bit like giving the app a fresh start.

Clearing the Cache: Go to your phone’s settings, then “Apps,” and find “Android Auto.” Tap on “Storage,” and then tap “Clear Cache.” This removes temporary files that may be causing problems.
Clearing the Data: Within the “Storage” settings for Android Auto, tap “Clear Data.” This will remove all app data, including saved settings. You will need to reconfigure Android Auto after clearing the data.
Restart Android Auto: After clearing the cache and data, restart your phone and reconnect to Android Auto. Reconfigure any necessary settings within the Android Auto app.

Comparison of Troubleshooting Methods

The table below compares the different troubleshooting methods discussed, providing a quick reference for their effectiveness and the effort required.

Troubleshooting Method	Effectiveness	Effort Required
Restarting Phone and Car	Often resolves temporary glitches.	Low
Checking for Software Updates	Addresses compatibility and bug-related issues.	Medium
Clearing Cache and Data	Resolves issues caused by corrupted files.	Medium

Compatibility and Device Specific Problems

Let’s face it, getting Android Auto to play nice with your phone and car is sometimes like trying to herd cats. Compatibility is key, and understanding the interplay between your phone, your car’s head unit, and Android Auto itself is crucial for smooth text message display. The lack of this harmony can turn your driving experience into a symphony of frustration.

Android Auto Settings Impacting Text Message Display

Android Auto’s settings are the control panel for your in-car experience. Messing with these can be the difference between receiving those vital messages and missing out on important information.

Notifications: Ensure notifications are enabled for Android Auto. This allows the system to alert you to incoming text messages. Think of it as the “open door” policy for your texts.
Message Preview: Enabling message previews is crucial. This setting determines whether the actual content of the text message is displayed, or just a notification that a message has arrived. Without it, you’ll be left guessing.
Do Not Disturb (DND): While DND is helpful for focus, it can also block message notifications. Check your DND settings in both Android Auto and your phone to make sure it’s not inadvertently silencing your texts.
Text Message Reading: Android Auto can read out your messages. Verify that the “Read messages aloud” option is enabled if you want to hear your texts while driving.

Verifying Permissions for Message Access

Permissions are like the keys to your digital castle. Android Auto needs the right keys to access your messages.

Here’s how to check and grant the necessary permissions:

On your phone, go to Settings. This is the main hub for controlling your device.
Find “Apps” or “Applications.” This section lists all the apps installed on your phone.
Select “Android Auto.” Locate Android Auto in the app list.
Tap “Permissions.” This is where you manage the permissions granted to the app.
Ensure “SMS” or “Messages” permission is enabled. If it’s not, tap on it and select “Allow.” Without this, Android Auto can’t see your texts.

Consider this a checklist to ensure Android Auto can do its job: receiving and displaying text messages.

Checking Default Messaging App Settings

Your default messaging app is the designated messenger for your phone. Android Auto will typically use this app to send and receive texts.

Verify these settings within Android Auto:

Default Messaging App: Within Android Auto’s settings on your phone, confirm that your preferred messaging app (e.g., Google Messages, Samsung Messages) is selected as the default. This is like choosing your preferred tool for the job.
App-Specific Settings: Some messaging apps have their own notification settings. Make sure notifications are enabled within the messaging app itself. This is like double-checking that all the doors are open.

Potential Issues with Specific Phone Manufacturers

The mobile phone world is a diverse landscape, and each manufacturer has its quirks. Compatibility hiccups can arise from the phone’s operating system, the manufacturer’s custom user interface, or even their approach to Android Auto integration.

Here’s a glimpse into potential issues with different manufacturers:

Samsung: Samsung phones often have their own “Messages” app in addition to Google Messages. Verify the default messaging app within both the phone’s settings and Android Auto. Samsung’s One UI can sometimes interfere with Android Auto’s notification handling. Consider checking for software updates; these often contain bug fixes related to Android Auto compatibility.
Google Pixel: Google Pixel phones are generally known for their smooth Android Auto integration. However, ensure you’re using the latest version of the Android Auto app and that the “Google Assistant” is correctly configured.
Other Manufacturers (e.g., OnePlus, Xiaomi): These manufacturers often have custom Android skins that can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Check the manufacturer’s website for any known Android Auto issues or workarounds specific to your phone model. Check if there are any specific settings related to battery optimization that might be preventing Android Auto from running in the background.

These are general guidelines, and the specifics can vary based on the phone model and software version. Staying up-to-date with software updates on both your phone and car’s head unit is always a good practice to ensure optimal compatibility.

Connectivity and Bluetooth Issues

Android Auto, that technological marvel, relies on a seamless connection to deliver your texts, tunes, and navigation. However, the path to a smooth experience can sometimes be paved with connection hiccups, especially when Bluetooth and USB cables get involved. Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of keeping your Android Auto connection rock-solid.

Bluetooth’s Role in Text Message Display

Bluetooth, the invisible thread that connects your phone to your car, is a crucial player in the Android Auto symphony. When you receive a text, the information travels from your phone to your car’s infotainment system, often facilitated by a Bluetooth connection, especially for the initial pairing and some auxiliary functions. This connection acts like a digital messenger, relaying the text’s contents, sender information, and any associated notifications.

A weak or unstable Bluetooth connection can lead to texts not displaying, delayed notifications, or even complete communication blackouts.

Troubleshooting Bluetooth Pairing Issues

Troubleshooting Bluetooth pairing issues is like being a detective, following clues to find the culprit behind the missing texts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you crack the case:

Check Compatibility: Ensure your phone and car’s infotainment system are compatible with Android Auto. Not all cars support Android Auto, and some older phones might not be fully compatible. A quick check on the Android Auto website or your car’s manual will confirm compatibility.
Restart Everything: The classic “turn it off and on again” approach often works wonders. Restart your phone and your car’s infotainment system. This can clear temporary glitches and refresh the Bluetooth connection.
Forget and Re-pair: Sometimes, a fresh start is all you need. On both your phone and your car’s infotainment system, “forget” the Bluetooth connection. Then, re-initiate the pairing process as if it were the first time.
Location Permissions: Android Auto requires location permissions to function correctly, even for text messages. Make sure location services are enabled on your phone and that Android Auto has permission to access them. This can sometimes affect Bluetooth connectivity indirectly.
Update Software: Outdated software can be a source of problems. Ensure your phone’s operating system (Android) and your car’s infotainment system are updated to the latest versions. These updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.
Check for Interference: Bluetooth signals can be susceptible to interference from other electronic devices, such as Wi-Fi routers or other Bluetooth devices. Try moving away from potential sources of interference to see if it improves the connection.
Car’s Bluetooth Settings: Review your car’s Bluetooth settings. Make sure your phone is set as the primary device or is given priority for media and calls.

Ensuring a Stable USB Connection

While Bluetooth plays a role, a stable USB connection is the primary workhorse for Android Auto, especially for data transfer. A faulty USB connection can cause a cascade of issues, from text messages not displaying to the entire Android Auto interface crashing.Here are some methods to ensure a stable USB connection:

Use a High-Quality USB Cable: Not all USB cables are created equal. Use a high-quality USB cable specifically designed for data transfer. Avoid using charging-only cables, as they may not support data transmission. Look for cables that are USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 compliant.
Check the USB Port: Inspect the USB port on both your car and your phone for any debris or damage. A clogged or damaged port can hinder the connection. Clean the port gently with compressed air or a soft brush if necessary.
Try a Different USB Port: Your car may have multiple USB ports. Try connecting your phone to a different port to see if it resolves the issue. Sometimes, one port might be faulty while others function correctly.
Avoid USB Hubs: Avoid using USB hubs, as they can sometimes introduce instability into the connection. Connect your phone directly to the car’s USB port.
Test the Cable in Another Device: To rule out a faulty USB cable, test it with another device that supports data transfer, such as a computer or another phone. If the cable doesn’t work with other devices, it’s likely the culprit.

Testing the USB Cable for Data Transfer Capabilities

Testing your USB cable’s data transfer capabilities is a crucial step in ensuring a reliable Android Auto experience. Here’s how you can perform a quick check:

Connect to a Computer: Plug your phone into your computer using the USB cable.
Check for File Transfer Options: On your phone, a notification should appear asking you to choose a USB connection type. Select “File Transfer” or “MTP” (Media Transfer Protocol). If you don’t see these options, or if the connection is unstable, the cable may not support data transfer.
Transfer a File: Try transferring a small file, like a photo or a document, from your phone to your computer, and vice versa. This confirms that data is flowing in both directions. The transfer speed can also give you an indication of the cable’s quality. A slower transfer rate might suggest a less-than-ideal cable.
Use a USB Tester (Optional): For a more precise test, you can use a USB tester. These devices measure the cable’s voltage, current, and data transfer speeds, providing a comprehensive assessment of its performance. This is particularly useful if you are experiencing intermittent connection issues.

Bluetooth Profiles Used by Android Auto

Bluetooth profiles are like different languages that your phone and car use to communicate. Android Auto relies on several of these profiles to function correctly.Here’s a breakdown of the key Bluetooth profiles used by Android Auto and their functions:

A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile): This profile handles the streaming of audio from your phone to your car’s speakers. This includes music, podcasts, and other audio content played through Android Auto.
HFP (Hands-Free Profile): HFP is responsible for handling phone calls. It allows you to make and receive calls through your car’s infotainment system, using the car’s microphone and speakers.
PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile): PBAP enables your car to access your phone’s contacts, allowing you to make calls directly from the car’s interface and see caller ID information.
AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile): This profile allows you to control the playback of audio content, such as pausing, playing, skipping tracks, and adjusting the volume, using the car’s controls.

App and Software Glitches

Sometimes, the issue isn’t your phone, your car, or the connection – it’s Android Auto itself. Like any piece of software, Android Auto can experience glitches, bugs, and other unexpected behaviors. Recognizing these problems and knowing how to troubleshoot them is crucial for a smooth and frustration-free experience on the road.

Identifying Android Auto App Glitches, Android auto not displaying text messages

Pinpointing if the Android Auto app is the culprit requires a bit of detective work. It’s about systematically eliminating other possibilities before landing on the app itself.

Consistent Behavior: Observe if the issue is reproducible. Does the problem – be it a missed text, a frozen screen, or audio dropouts – happen every time you use Android Auto, or is it sporadic? Consistent behavior points towards a more fundamental issue within the app.
Cross-Device Testing: If possible, try connecting your phone to a different car’s Android Auto system. If the problem persists across different vehicles, it strongly suggests the issue lies within your phone’s Android Auto app.
Software Version Check: Ensure your Android Auto app is up to date. Outdated versions are more prone to bugs and may lack the latest performance enhancements and bug fixes. You can find the app version in your phone’s settings under “Apps” then “Android Auto.”
Error Messages: Pay attention to any error messages displayed by Android Auto. These messages often provide clues about the source of the problem. A message like “Android Auto has stopped” clearly indicates an app-related issue.
Review Recent Changes: Think about any recent updates to the Android Auto app, your phone’s operating system, or any third-party apps that might be interacting with Android Auto. A recent change could be the source of the problem.

Uninstalling and Reinstalling the Android Auto App

Sometimes, a fresh start is all that’s needed. Uninstalling and reinstalling the Android Auto app can clear out corrupted files and resolve minor glitches.

Uninstalling the App: On your Android phone, go to “Settings” > “Apps” (or “Applications”). Locate “Android Auto” in the list of installed apps. Tap on it, and then tap the “Uninstall” button. This removes the app from your device.
Clearing Cache and Data: Before reinstalling, it’s a good idea to clear the app’s cache and data. This can help eliminate any leftover files that might be causing issues. Within the Android Auto app settings (as described above), you’ll find options to “Clear Cache” and “Clear Data.”
Reinstalling the App: Go to the Google Play Store on your phone and search for “Android Auto.” Tap “Install” to download and reinstall the app.
Restart Your Phone: After reinstalling, restart your phone. This ensures that all the changes are applied and that the system is running smoothly.
Reconfigure Android Auto: Once the app is reinstalled and your phone has restarted, you’ll need to reconfigure Android Auto. Connect your phone to your car’s system and follow the on-screen prompts to set up your preferences, such as your preferred navigation app and media player.

Contacting Android Auto Support

If the troubleshooting steps haven’t resolved the issue, reaching out to Android Auto support might be necessary.

Android Auto support is primarily handled through the Google Help Center and the Android Auto community forums. While direct phone support might not be available, these resources offer a wealth of information and opportunities to get assistance.

Google Help Center: The Google Help Center is a comprehensive resource that provides articles, tutorials, and troubleshooting guides for various Android Auto issues. You can access it through the Google Search or by searching “Android Auto Help.”
Android Auto Community Forums: The Android Auto community forums are a valuable place to connect with other users, ask questions, and share experiences. You can find solutions to common problems and potentially get help from experienced users or Google product experts.
Feedback Submission: Within the Android Auto app settings, you can often find an option to submit feedback. This allows you to report bugs, suggest features, and provide information about your specific issue to the Android Auto development team.
Social Media: While not official support channels, social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit can sometimes be useful for getting quick responses or finding community-driven solutions. However, always be cautious about sharing personal information on public platforms.

Determining Third-Party App Interference

Third-party apps can sometimes interfere with Android Auto, leading to unexpected behavior. Identifying the culprit requires a process of elimination.

Identify Suspicious Apps: Consider which apps you’ve recently installed or updated, especially those that have access to your phone’s audio, notifications, or location services. These apps are more likely to interact with Android Auto.
Disable Apps: Temporarily disable the suspicious apps one by one to see if the problem resolves. You can do this in your phone’s “Settings” > “Apps” (or “Applications”) section. Tap on the app and then tap “Disable.”
Test in Isolation: Test Android Auto with as few apps running in the background as possible. Close all unnecessary apps before connecting to your car.
Check App Permissions: Review the permissions granted to third-party apps. Some apps may be accessing features that could interfere with Android Auto. You can manage app permissions in your phone’s “Settings” > “Apps” > “App Permissions.”
Look for Compatibility Issues: Check the Android Auto compatibility list for third-party apps. Some apps may not be fully compatible with Android Auto, leading to conflicts.

Workarounds for Common Android Auto App Glitches

Sometimes, there’s no immediate fix, but workarounds can help mitigate the issues.

Restart Android Auto: If Android Auto freezes or behaves erratically, try disconnecting your phone and then reconnecting it. This can often reset the app and resolve temporary glitches.

Clear Cache: Regularly clearing the Android Auto app’s cache can prevent performance issues.

Use Alternative Apps: If a specific app is causing problems, try using an alternative app for the same function. For example, if your preferred music app is glitching, switch to another music app.

Update Car’s Infotainment System: Ensure your car’s infotainment system software is up to date. Updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can enhance Android Auto’s performance.

Factory Reset (as a Last Resort): If all else fails, consider performing a factory reset of your phone. This will erase all data, so be sure to back up your important files beforehand. This should only be used as a last resort.

Car Head Unit Configuration: Android Auto Not Displaying Text Messages

Let’s dive into the often-overlooked heart of the Android Auto experience: your car’s head unit. This is where the magic happens (or doesn’t, if things aren’t configured correctly!). Ensuring your head unit is set up properly is crucial for a smooth and seamless Android Auto experience, especially when it comes to text messages. We’ll explore the settings, updates, and troubleshooting steps you need to take.

Checking Android Auto and Text Message Settings

The first step is to become a detective in your car’s infotainment system. Each head unit manufacturer has its own quirky way of doing things, so you’ll need to consult your car’s manual (yes, really!). But generally, you’ll be looking for settings related to Android Auto, Bluetooth, and notifications.

Android Auto Settings: Search for a dedicated Android Auto section. This is where you’ll enable Android Auto, choose how it launches (automatically or manually), and potentially manage connected devices. Look for options related to message notifications and whether they are enabled.
Bluetooth Settings: Bluetooth is the backbone for wireless Android Auto. Ensure your phone is paired and connected. Check the Bluetooth settings for your phone’s profile and ensure that message access is granted. Some head units have separate settings for Bluetooth audio and Bluetooth phone functions.
Notification Settings: Within the infotainment system’s settings, there might be a section dedicated to notifications. Make sure notifications are enabled for the Android Auto app. Sometimes, you can even customize which apps are allowed to send notifications through the head unit.
Sound Settings: Check sound settings. Ensure that the volume for notifications is turned up and that the system isn’t set to mute or ignore text message alerts.

Resetting the Head Unit to Factory Settings

Sometimes, a fresh start is all that’s needed. Resetting your head unit to its factory settings can resolve stubborn software glitches that might be interfering with Android Auto. This will wipe out any customized settings you’ve made, so be prepared to reconfigure everything.

Before proceeding, make a note of your current settings. This will help you restore them after the reset.

Here’s how you typically reset a head unit, but remember to consult your car’s manual for specific instructions:

Locate the Reset Option: This is usually found within the “Settings” menu, often under “System,” “General,” or “Factory Settings.”
Choose “Factory Reset” or Similar: The wording may vary, but look for an option that explicitly mentions a reset to factory defaults.
Confirm the Reset: The system will likely ask you to confirm your choice. Be absolutely sure you want to proceed, as this action is irreversible.
Wait for the Reset: The head unit will restart and return to its original state. This process can take a few minutes.
Reconnect and Reconfigure: Once the reset is complete, you’ll need to reconnect your phone, set up your preferred settings (radio stations, Bluetooth connections, etc.), and test Android Auto again.

Updating the Car’s Infotainment System Firmware

Outdated firmware is a common culprit behind Android Auto issues. Head unit manufacturers regularly release firmware updates to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features. Keeping your system updated is vital for optimal Android Auto functionality.

Updating the firmware is generally a straightforward process, but it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Check for Updates: The first step is to check if an update is available. This can usually be done through the head unit’s settings menu, often under a section labeled “Software Update,” “System Update,” or “About.”
Download the Update (if needed): Some systems will download the update directly over the air (OTA). Others require you to download the update file to a USB drive from the manufacturer’s website and then install it.
Install the Update: Follow the on-screen prompts to install the update. This process can take a significant amount of time, so ensure your car is parked and the engine is running (or the battery is sufficiently charged) to prevent interruption.
Do Not Interrupt the Update: During the installation, do not turn off the car or remove the USB drive. Interrupting the update can potentially brick your head unit.
Verify the Update: Once the update is complete, the head unit will restart. Verify that the new firmware version is installed in the “About” or “System Information” section.

Troubleshooting Microphone Issues for Voice Commands

If voice commands for text messages aren’t working, the car’s microphone is the likely suspect. This is the bridge between you and Android Auto, enabling you to dictate messages, reply to texts, and more.

Here’s how to troubleshoot microphone issues:

Check Microphone Placement: Make sure the microphone is not obstructed. Some vehicles have microphones built into the rearview mirror, while others are located on the dashboard or near the steering wheel. Ensure nothing is blocking it.
Test the Microphone: Try making a phone call through the head unit. If the other person can’t hear you clearly, the microphone is the problem.
Check Microphone Sensitivity: Some head units have microphone sensitivity settings. Adjust these settings to optimize voice command recognition.
Inspect the Microphone Connection: If the microphone is external, check the connection to the head unit. A loose connection can cause issues.
Clean the Microphone: Dust and debris can interfere with microphone performance. Gently clean the microphone with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquids.
Test in Different Environments: Try using voice commands in different locations. Background noise can interfere with the microphone’s ability to pick up your voice.
Consult the Manual: Refer to your car’s manual for specific instructions on troubleshooting the microphone.

Comparing Car Head Unit Manufacturers and Android Auto Issues

Different head unit manufacturers have different strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a table comparing some common Android Auto issues across popular brands. Note that this is a general overview, and individual experiences may vary.

Manufacturer	Common Android Auto Issues	Potential Solutions	Notes
Alpine	Connectivity issues, Bluetooth instability, occasional app crashes.	Update firmware, check Bluetooth settings, ensure a stable phone connection.	Known for its aftermarket head units, which can sometimes have compatibility issues.
Kenwood	Wireless Android Auto connection problems, microphone issues, occasional freezing.	Update firmware, try a wired connection, check microphone placement and settings.	Often provides frequent firmware updates to address bugs and improve performance.
Pioneer	App compatibility problems, slow response times, occasional audio glitches.	Update firmware, ensure apps are compatible, try a different USB cable.	Offers a wide range of head units, from entry-level to high-end models.
Sony	Wireless Android Auto connection problems, intermittent audio dropouts, occasional interface lag.	Update firmware, check Bluetooth settings, ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal (for wireless).	Generally well-regarded, but some users report occasional glitches.