An old Android tablet can be repurposed into an Android Auto display for your car instead of sitting unused in a drawer. The approach uses Headunit Revived, an open-source app that lets the tablet function like a dedicated Android Auto head unit.

Once the app is set up and the phone is connected to the tablet, Android Auto should launch on the larger screen automatically. From there, the layout is said to resemble the standard in-car Android Auto experience, including familiar navigation tools such as Google Maps.

The idea is appealing for drivers who want a bigger dashboard-style screen without replacing factory hardware or buying a separate head unit. It also offers a practical way to reuse older Android devices that still have a working display and enough performance for everyday driving tasks.

While the exact setup can vary by device, the overall concept is straightforward: pair your phone with the tablet, run Headunit Revived, and let the tablet act as the car-facing interface. For anyone looking for a budget-friendly Android Auto solution, an old tablet may be enough to do the job.