Google Maps "Directions Error" — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

A directions error in Google Maps means the app could not calculate or display a route between two locations. This can happen in the browser version or the mobile app. The most common causes are a lost internet connection, an outdated app, or a temporary problem with Google's mapping servers. Most directions errors clear up with a simple refresh or app restart.

Affected Models

Google Maps in Chrome
Google Maps in Firefox
Google Maps on Android
Google Maps on iPhone
Google Maps on iPad

Common Causes

Your internet connection dropped or is too weak to fetch route data
The Google Maps app is out of date and has a known routing bug
Google Maps servers are temporarily experiencing an issue
Your device's location permissions for Google Maps are turned off
The destination address you entered does not match any address in Google's database

How to Fix It

Check your internet connection. Google Maps needs an active connection to load directions. Try opening any other website to confirm you are online.

If you need offline maps, download the area in advance in the Google Maps app: tap your profile > Offline maps > Select your own map.
Close Google Maps completely and reopen it. On Android, swipe it away from the recent apps screen. On iPhone, swipe up from the bottom.

A full app restart clears any stuck state or corrupted data in memory.
Update the Google Maps app. Open the Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS), search for Google Maps, and install any available update.

Routing bugs are common in older versions. An update is often the fastest permanent fix.
Check that location permissions are enabled for Google Maps. Go to your phone's Settings > Apps > Google Maps > Permissions > Location and set it to While Using the App or Always.

Without location access, Maps cannot show your current position or calculate a route from where you are.
Try re-entering the destination. Delete the address and type it again carefully, or drop a pin manually on the map by pressing and holding the destination.

Slightly wrong address formats can confuse the routing engine. A manual pin always works.

When to Call a Professional

Google Maps errors never require professional help. If Maps does not work at all on your device, check that your Google Play Services is up to date (on Android) or that your iOS is current. For business listing errors on Google Maps, use Google Business Profile at business.google.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Google Maps work on Wi-Fi but not on mobile data?

Your mobile data connection may be too weak or slow to download map and route data. Maps requires a fairly active data connection to calculate and display directions in real time. Check your signal strength and make sure mobile data is enabled for the Maps app in your phone's settings.

Can I use Google Maps without an internet connection?

Yes, but you need to plan ahead. You can download maps for offline use before you travel. Open Google Maps, search for a city or region, tap Download, and save it to your device. Offline maps let you view maps and get basic directions without a connection.

Google Maps shows the wrong route or won't route to my address. Is my address missing from Google Maps?

Some addresses — particularly in rural areas or newly built developments — are not yet in Google's database. You can report a missing or wrong address at maps.google.com by clicking the menu > Send feedback > Missing road. In the meantime, navigate to the nearest known intersection and use that as your destination.