Among various methods, the Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) plugin is a preferred choice for WordPress users aiming to incorporate maps into their sites.
However, a common stumbling block encountered is the ACF Google Map API key error. This guide is will help you resolve this error, ensuring your maps are displayed without a hitch.
Understanding the ACF Google Map API key error
At its core, the ACF Google Map API key error occurs when your website’s connection to Google Maps is somehow obstructed.
This could manifest as your map not displaying correctly, or not appearing at all, accompanied by an error message indicating an issue with the API key.
Several factors could be at play here, including invalid API keys, billing issues within your Google Cloud Platform account, or restrictions set on the API key that prevent it from being used on your website.
Preparing to Resolve the ACF Google Map API Key Error
Before diving into the solutions, let’s identify the root cause of the problem by systematically checking several key areas.
Confirming the API Key is Valid
- Go to the Google Cloud Platform console
- Select the relevant project, then access the “APIs & Services” dashboard
- Look for the API key in question under the “Credentials” tab to ensure it’s listed and not revoked
Ensuring Billing Information is Updated
Google Maps services require an active billing account. Confirm your billing information is current by checking:
- The “Billing” section in Google Cloud Console
- Verify that your billing account is linked to your project and that there are no outstanding payments
Checking API Restrictions
To prevent unauthorized use, API keys can have restrictions. However, overly stringent restrictions can lead to errors:
- In the “Credentials” tab, select your API key
- Ensure the key is restricted to your website’s domain correctly, without typos or outdated entries
Fixing the ACF Google Map API key error
Now, let’s tackle the solutions starting with the most common fix.
Updating the ACF Google Map API key in WordPress
Occasionally, the issue can be resolved simply by updating your API key within WordPress:
- Login to your WordPress dashboard
- Go to ACF (formerly ‘Custom Fields’) in the main left hand menu (assuming ACF is installed and active)
- Locate the Google Map API Key field, replace the existing key with the correct one, and save changes
- Visit a page on your site where a map should appear to test if the issue is resolved
Resolve API Billing Issues
If billing is the problem:
- Go to the “Billing” section in the Google Cloud Console
- Ensure your payment method is valid and up-to-date
- Resolve any notifications or warnings related to billing to re-enable any suspended services
Adjust API key restrictions
To adjust restrictions that might be causing the error:
- In the “Credentials” tab, click on the API key to edit its settings
- Carefully adjust the HTTP referrers to match your domain, applying changes as necessary
Enable required Google Map APIs
Certain functionalities require specific Google Map APIs to be enabled:
- In the Google Cloud Console, navigate to the “APIs & Services > Dashboard”
- Use the “ENABLE APIS AND SERVICES” button to search for and enable each required API (e.g., Maps JavaScript API, Geocoding API)
Troubleshooting advanced issues
Even after following the initial steps, you might still face issues. Here are some advanced troubleshooting tips.
Dealing with console errors
Using browser developer tools can help identify specific errors:
- Open your website where the map should appear
- Right-click on the page, select “Inspect” to open developer tools, and switch to the “Console” tab
- Look for any error messages related to Google Maps. These messages can offer clues on what needs fixing, such as enabling a specific API in the Google Cloud Console
Checking for plugin conflicts
Sometimes, other plugins can interfere with ACF’s map functionality:
- Clone the website and do the following on staging:
- Temporarily deactivate all other plugins on your site
- Check if the map now displays correctly
- Reactivate plugins one by one, checking the map each time to isolate the conflicting plugin
Preventing future ACF Google Map API key errors
Here are some preventative measures for this issue for the future:
- Regularly update API keys and billing information
- Monitor Google Cloud Platform for updates
- Keep all plugins up to date
Alternative Solutions to Consider
If, after all these efforts, you’re still encountering issues, consider these alternatives:
Using other map plugins
Other WordPress plugins can offer simpler or more compatible map integrations:
Embedding maps without a plugin
For a lightweight option, embed maps directly:
- Go to Google Maps, find the location you wish to embed, and select “Share” from the menu
- Choose “Embed a map” and copy the HTML code provided
- Paste this code into the HTML of your WordPress page or post where you want the map displayed
Conclusion
The ACF Google Map API key error is perfectly solvable. By starting with the basics, such as verifying your API key and billing status, and moving on to more comprehensive solutions, you can ensure your maps are up and running smoothly.