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How to Fix Google Maps Location Is Wrong [2025 Newest]

Elsa Updated on Dec 2, 2024 Filed to: Parent Control

Google Maps is a popular web mapping platform known for its accuracy and precision in terms of location-based services. When you have Google Maps on your side, you're certain to get instantaneous location information wherever you go. Suppose you haven't used or updated Maps for quite some time. In that case, you may encounter errors such as incorrect locations or outdated information."

Google Maps location is wrong

Before diving into solutions, it's essential to understand why Google Maps might display incorrect location data. Common reasons may include a weak GPS signal, an outdated version, or incorrect location settings on your device. Interested in a solution for fixing Google Maps Location is Wrong? Read on, and we'll outline just that.

  • Part 1: Why Is Google Maps Showing My Location Wrong?
  • Part 2: How to Fix Google Maps Showing Wrong Location on Mobile Phone?
  • Part 3: Google Maps Shows Wrong Location on PC?
  • Part 4: A Bonus Tool to Get Accurate Location of Your Kids
  • Part 5: What Does The Blue Dot Mean on Google Maps?
  • Part 6: FAQs about Google Maps Location Is Wrong

Why Is Google Maps Showing My Location Wrong?

Google Maps is a complex piece of software that uses a large database of mapping information. However, the mapping data can be out of date or contain mistakes, resulting in inaccurate location information. Moreover, you may experience this problem for various reasons.

For instance, your device's GPS signal is weak or inaccurate. GPS signals are affected by factors such as tall buildings, dense foliage, and indoor basements. In such cases, the application relies on a Wi-Fi network to estimate your location. Wi-Fi is not as accurate as GPS. If you're indoors or in an area with poor GPS reception, try switching to the cellular data connection or changing your location.

13 Pro Fixes for Google Maps Showing Wrong Location on Mobile Phone

Google Maps can be a lifesaver when you're trying to find your way around, but it's not always perfect. If you notice that Google Maps is showing your location incorrectly, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem.

  • 1. Turn on Location Services
  • 2. Improve Location Accuracy
  • 3. Calibrate Compass
  • 4. Calibrate with Live View
  • 5. Disable Mock Locations
  • 6. Turn on Wi-Fi
  • 7. Clear Cache and Data
  • 8. Disable Power Saving Mode
  • 9. Update Google Maps
  • 10. Reinstall Google Maps
  • 11. Restart Your Phone
  • 12. Download Offine Maps
  • 13. Use Google Maps Go

Turn on Location Services

Location services are most often disabled on mobile devices, so Google Maps displays the wrong location. To enable location services, swipe down the notification panel and click on the Location icon or follow these steps:

Turn on Location Services on Android

  1. Open your Android device Settings app.

  2. Search for Location and Tap on it.

  3. turn on location services on Android

  4. Toggle the switch next to Google Maps to the On position.

  5. If you are prompted, tap Allow to allow Google Maps to access your location.

Once location services are enabled, refresh the application. Google Maps will probably show your correct location.

Turn on Location Services on iPhone

To enable location services on an iPhone:

  1. Navigate to iPhone’s Settings and select Privacy & Security.

  2. Now click on Location Services, make sure that the Location Services toggle is turned on.

  3. turn on location services on iPhone

  4. Scroll down to find the Google Maps app to enable location services.

  5. Tap the app and select Always: The app will be able to access your location even when it is closed or not in use.

Improve Location Accuracy

To improve the accuracy of your location on your smartphone, you can enable high accuracy mode. This mode uses GPS, Wi-Fi, mobile networks, and sensors to get the most accurate location.

Improve Location Accuracy on Android

  1. Head to the Android device Settings app.

  2. Tap on Location.

  3. Now select Google Location Accuracy.

  4. Turn on Improve Location Accuracy option.

  5. improve Google location accuracy

Improve Location Accuracy on iPhone

  1. Head to the iPhone’s Settings app.

  2. Tap on Privacy and select Location Services.

  3. Scroll down, tap on Google Maps, select Always and turn on Precise Location option.

  4. enable precise location on iPhone

Calibrate Compass

If your compass is not calibrated, it may be causing your location to be inaccurate. Now follow the steps to calibrate compass on your Android phone:

  1. Open the Google Maps app and tap on the compass icon.

  2. Make sure it is set to "automatic" calibration.

  3. Hold your phone in your hand and rotate it in a circle until the compass shows the correct direction.

  4. Tap Done to save your calibration.

  5. calibrate the compass on Android

Calibrate with Live View

  1. Open Google Maps on your iPhone.

  2. Click on the blue dot indicating your location and “Calibrate with Live View” via Maps AR.

  3. calibrate with live view

  4. Keep up with the on-screen instructions.

Disable Mock Locations

Mock locations are fake locations that certain apps can create. If you have enabled mock locations, it will likely cause your location to become wrong or inaccurate. To turn off mock locations, follow these steps.

  1. Open the Settings app and tap on "Developer options."

  2. tap developer options

  3. Then, scroll down and tap on "Select mock location app."

  4. tap select mock location app

  5. Choose "Select none" to turn off mock locations.

Turn on Wi-Fi

Often, all you need to do is perform a simple troubleshooting step in order to see your precise location on Google Maps. Connect to a WiFi connection if you want Maps to update data, especially when your mobile data connection is unstable. Swipe down the notification panel and click on the Wi-Fi icon to enable it.

Clear Cache and Data

If you are still having problems, it is recommended that you clear the Google Maps cache because excessive data stored in the cache memory can prevent live location updates.

Clear Cache and Data on Android

Here’s how to clear the cache of Maps on an Android device

  1. Go to your Android phone's Settings app.

  2. Tap on Apps, select Google Maps, then scroll down to click on "Storage".

  3. tap storage

  4. Among the options is one for "Clear data" and another for "Clear cache."

  5. tap clear cache

  6. Click on “Clear cache.”

Note : Remember, “clear storage” will permanently delete all of the application data, including files and settings.

Clear Cache and Data on iPhone

  1. Open Google Maps on your iPhone.

  2. Tap on your profile and click on Settings.

  3. click on settings

  4. Scroll down and tap About, terms & privacy.

  5. select about terms and privacy

  6. Tap Clear application data then confirm your action.

  7. select clear application data

Disable Power Saving Mode

Power saving mode conserves battery and reduces application activity by turning off certain features, including updates for navigations. To ensure the Google Maps Location doesn't show incorrect information, turn off any Battery Saver mode currently active.

Disable Power Saving Mode on Android

The name of the power-saving feature varies from Android brand to brand, depending on the manufacturer. The simplest way to navigate and turn off the power-saving feature is through the drop-down panel.

  1. Swipe down from the top of the screen.

  2. Check the shortcut option. You can see Power saving mode.

  3. turn off power saving mode

Disable Low Power Mode on iPhone

  1. Go to Settings and click on Battery.

  2. Tap to turn off the slider.

  3. turn off low power mode

Update Google Maps

Google Maps is frequently updated to correct flaws and improve overall performance. Verify that you are using the most recent version of Google Maps by checking for updates in the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone).

update Google Maps on Android

update Google Maps on iPhone

Reinstall Google Maps

In case the inaccuracy of location persists, it may be due to an outdated or corrupted Maps version. All you need to do is uninstall your Google Maps, and then reinstall the newest version.

Restart Your Phone

Another simple but very effective solution to fix Google Maps' incorrect location is to restart your device. Press and hold the power button and select restart. In most cases, this simple troubleshooting step resolves the most complex issues.

restart your phone

Use Google Maps Go

Google Maps Go is a minimalistic version of the official Google Maps that is designed for low-end devices and areas with poor internet connectivity. It is less than 20MB in size and uses less data than the regular Google Maps app. The best part is “Google Maps Go” works even when you are offline. The application is available for free to download on the Google Play store.

Google Maps Go

Download Offline Maps

Another way to improve your location accuracy is to download offline maps. Offline maps are copies of Google Maps that are stored on your device. This means that you can use them without an active internet connection.

Download Offline Maps on Android

  1. Open the Google Maps app and tap on the profile icon in the top left corner. Tap on "Offline maps".

  2. tap offline maps

  3. Tap "SELECT YOUR OWN MAP."

  4. select your own map

  5. Zoom in and out to select the area that you want to download. Once you have selected the area, tap on "Download."

Download Offline Maps on iPhone

  1. Launch the Google Maps app and tap on the profile icon in the bottom right corner. Click on "Offline maps."

  2. click on offline maps

  3. Tap on the "SELECT YOUR OWN MAP" button to create a new offline map.

  4. tap select your own map

  5. Zoom in and out to select the area that you want to download. Once you have selected the area, tap on "Download."

Top 6 Ways to Fix Google Maps Shows Wrong Location on PC

Google Maps is a powerful tool that allows users to explore and navigate the most complex routes worldwide. The web version of Google Maps is quite similar to the mobile version in terms of interface. However, it may also show the wrong location on a PC. Don't worry; here are the steps to fix Google Maps showing the wrong location on a PC:

  • 1. Give Maps Location Permission
  • 2. Turn off VPN and Proxy
  • 3. Reload Your Browser
  • 4. Ensure a Strong Internet Connection
  • 5. Clear Browser Cache
  • 6. Restart Your Computer

Give Maps Location Permission

By giving Maps location permission, you are allowing it to access your current location. This will allow Maps to provide you with more accurate information.

Give Maps Location Permission on Your Computer

  1. Head to your computer's settings.

  2. Click on "Privacy" > "Location".

  3. Cross-check that "Allow apps to access your location" is turned on.

  4. Scroll down and find Google Maps.

  5. Click on the drop-down menu and select "Allow all the time."

Give Maps Location Permission in Your Browser

  1. Open your browser's settings.

  2. Search for "location".

  3. Click on "Site Settings" > "Location".

  4. Make sure that "Ask before accessing" is selected.

  5. Scroll down and find Google Maps.

  6. Click on the drop-down menu and select "Allow all the time".

Turn off VPN and Proxy

VPN and proxy servers can sometimes interfere with Google Maps' ability to determine your location. If you are using a VPN or proxy, try turning it off to see if that fixes the problem.

Reload Your Browser

Most of the time, a simple browser refresh can fix minor glitches that may be causing the location inaccuracy problem. To reload your browser, press Ctrl+R on Windows or Cmd+R on Mac.

Ensure a Strong Internet Connection

Google Maps needs a strong internet connection to work properly. If your internet connection is weak, it may be causing Google Maps to show your wrong location. Try moving to a location with better internet reception or connecting to a different Wi-Fi network.

Clear Browser Cache

Your browser's cache can sometimes store outdated or corrupted data, which can cause problems with Google Maps. To clear your browser's cache, follow these steps to clear Chrome's cache:

  1. Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the browser.

  2. Click on "More tools" > "Clear browsing data."

  3. Select the time range for the data you want to clear.

  4. Make sure that "Cached images and files" is selected.

  5. Click on "Clear data."

Restart Your Computer

Restarting your computer can also fix minor software glitches that may be causing the problem in Google Maps. To restart your computer, click on the Start button and select "Restart."

A Bonus Tool to Get Accurate Location of Your Kids

While Google Maps may not always provide the tailored assistance you and your family need in certain situations, AirDroid Parental Control offers precise location data and effective parental control features. It's more reliable in providing accurate location information as well as ongoing support that is always willing to help.

It includes a dedicated location tracker, live location sharing, and location history. In addition, parents can create virtual zones for kids to ensure their safety and instantly get alerts when they enter and leave a location. It also offers support for multiple devices so that users can track their loved ones regardless of their device.

Here's a quick guide on how you can locate your family members:

1. Open AirDroid Parental Control and tap the Location button.

2. You'll see the real-time location of the target phone on the map. Or you can tap the refresh icon to update it.

3. Also, you can tap the Route History button to see location history for up to 30 days.

/tr>

refresh locationroute history

What Does The Blue Dot Mean on Google Maps?

The blue dot signifies your current location on the Google Maps interface. As you move, the blue dot on the map will update in real time to show your distance from your destination. The blue dot's accuracy may fluctuate based on your surroundings. The blue dot should be very accurate in areas with good GPS reception. However, in areas with poor GPS reception, you may see a light blue circle around the dot. This means that you are located somewhere within the region that is indicated as blue.

Conclusion

We often rely on Google Maps to get us where we need to go. Despite Maps's best efforts, the app can sometimes show an inaccurate location, leading you astray. You will surely find the steps discussed in this article helpful in getting Google Maps back on track.

FAQs about Google Maps Location Is Wrong

1. How Do I Change My Location on Google Maps on PC?
Elsa
Elsa

To change your location on Google Maps on your computer, follow these steps:

Step 1: From Google Maps, Click on the three lines in the top left corner of the map.

Step 2: Click on "Edit the Maps" and select “Wrong Pin Location on Maps.”

Step 3: Add new location details and submit for approval.

2. Why Does My Location Say I'm Somewhere Else?
Elsa
Elsa

There are a few reasons why your location may say you're somewhere else on Google Maps:

1. Your device's GPS signal may be weak.

2. You may be indoors or in an area with poor GPS reception.

3. You may be using a VPN or proxy server.

3. How Do I Correct My Address on Google Maps?
Elsa
Elsa

To correct your address on Google Maps, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Google Maps in your browser.

Step 2: Search for your address and click on the three dots next to your address.

Step 3: Select "Suggest an edit."

Step 4: Make appropriate modifications to your address.

Step 5: Click on "Submit".

4. How Do I Change the Wrong Location on Google My Business?
Elsa
Elsa

To change the wrong location on Google My Business, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Sign into your Google My Business account.

Step 2: Click on the location that you want to edit.

Step 3: Click on the "Info" tab > Under "Location," click on "Edit."

Step 4: Make the necessary changes to your location.

Step 5: Save and Continue.

5. How to Correct My Home Address in Google Maps?
Elsa
Elsa

To correct your home address in Google Maps, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Google Maps in your browser.

Step 2: Search for your home address.

Step 3: Click on the three dots next to your home address.

Step 4: Select "Suggest an edit."

Step 5: Under "Address," make the necessary changes to your home address.

Step 6: Click on "Submit".

6. How Do I Contact Google Maps About an Incorrect Address?
Elsa
Elsa

To contact Google Maps about an incorrect address, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Google Maps in your browser.

Step 2: Search for the incorrect address.

Step 3: Click on the three dots next to the incorrect address.

Step 4: Select "Report a problem."

Step 5: Under "Issue Type," select "Incorrect address."

Step 6: Under "Description," explain the problem in more detail.

Step 7: Click on "Submit."

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Elsa
Elsa
Elsa has worked on a number of iOS & Android solutions, she can always find her way around almost any application. She is an accomplished, skilled and versatile writer with more than 7 years of technical article writing experience.
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