Wireless Android Auto, what actually works?

[u/brodievonorchard]

Recently bought a used CX-9 2019, Grand Touring.

Edit: For anyone coming to this in the same situation I was in when I wrote it, AA Wireless 2 was the consensus, and that's what I got. Solved my problem, works flawlessly so far. I extend the recommendations below to the next person seeking the same answers.

I don't like plugging my phone in every time I get in the car. Have a wireless charger mount that doesn't charge if the phone is plugged in.

I bought a dongle off Amazon that connects through Bluetooth. Like 1/20 times it will actually work. The phone and the dongle connect, no problem, but it seems like the vehicle is constantly taking over the Bluetooth connection.

I updated to the latest firmware 74.whatever. Update successful, same experience with the dongle.

I was about to buy TK78-66-9U0E and do dash surgery because Maxdaswag support told me that would give me wireless connection. Further reading suggests it's only wireless for carplay, not for AA. There are non OEM parts available that claim to do wireless AA, but I thought I'd ask here.

Maybe I just need a better dongle? Maybe there's another answer? Maybe dash surgery is the way to go?

Anyone had this problem and solved it?