The VideoLAN Forums

I have a Recent version of VLC on my Motorola Moto G Power, and VLC doesn't show up on android auto for my car (2018 Chevy Trax)
Any clue as to why? or does auto get removed?
Just because on longer rides I need to use google maps, and I can't control my music while that's running except by having a passenger unlock my phone specifically to skip

Any recent version of VLC should automatically appear in Android Auto. It does require that you restart your phone, or stop/start the Android Auto app, after installing. That's out of our control, as Android Auto only scans for available media applications once at launch (not when connected). I think rebooting is easier for most because the Android Auto app is hard to find.

Speaking of hard to find... Try:
Settings->Apps (See all Apps) -> Android Auto -> Advanced -> Additional Settings in App -> Customize Launcher

Confirm VLC is in the list and has a check box next to it