How do I install SYNC updates?

You can download your SYNC®^* updates for your Ford vehicle through Wi-Fi® or with a USB drive, depending on your SYNC generation, by following the instructions on the SYNC and Navigation Updates page.

Refer to the table below to learn which method is available depending on your SYNC generation, and follow the steps to access the installation instructions.

Note: If you need assistance determining your SYNC generation, refer to the SYNC Visual Reference Guide.

SYNC Generation	Available Update Methods
SYNC 4A \| SYNC 4	Updates are available only through automatic over-the-air software updates.
SYNC 3	Updates can be performed via Wi-Fi. Note: Wi-Fi updates are not available for the following: 2016–2017 model-year (MY) vehicles without a touchscreen 2016–2017 MY vehicles without Navigation	Updates can also be completed with a USB drive meeting the requirements below. Either USB Version 2.0 or 3.0 16 GB to 32 GB Formatted to exFAT Without a password Completely empty
SYNC 3 non-touchscreen	Updates can be completed with a USB drive meeting the requirements below. Either USB Version 2.0 or 3.0 16 GB to 32 GB Formatted to exFAT Without a password Completely empty Updates can also be performed by a Ford Dealer. Dealer fees may apply.
SYNC with MyFord Touch® SYNC Gen 1.1 SYNC Gen 1	Updates can be completed with a USB drive meeting the requirements below. Version 2.0 4 GB to 32 GB Formatted to FAT32 Without a password Completely empty
SYNC with Next-Generation Navigation	Updates can be completed by a Ford Dealer. Dealer fees may apply. Updates can also be purchased on a compact disc (CD) using the HERE website. Note: The SYNC software update CDs are included with the Navigation map update CDs.
SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation SYNC with "P" Navigation	Updates can only be performed by a Ford Dealer.

Installing Your SYNC Updates

Visit the SYNC and Navigation Updates page.
Enter your VIN and select Search, or sign in to your Ford account and select a vehicle from your garage. SYNC and Navigation map updates will be displayed.

Note: If you have the latest SYNC software version, you will see a green checkmark and a message stating that an update is not available for your vehicle.
Choose USB Drive or Wi-Fi as your preferred installation method based on the options available for your SYNC generation, and follow the instructions.

Notes:

Installing USB updates can take up to 45 minutes.
For Wi-Fi updates, the download time can vary from a few hours to multiple days depending on internet-related factors, such as Wi-Fi strength, internet speeds, time connected to the Wi-Fi network, etc.
Depending on your SYNC version, you may or may not be able to drive your vehicle during an update. Refer to the Can I drive my Ford while it is updating? topic for more information.
You cannot connect to the vehicle's Wi-Fi hotspot^**, if equipped, to install Wi-Fi updates.

Additional Information

Is there a cost for downloading SYNC updates?
Can I upgrade from a previous SYNC system to a newer SYNC system?

^*Don’t drive while distracted. Use voice-operated systems when possible; don’t use handheld devices while driving. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.

^**Wi-Fi® hotspot includes complimentary wireless data trial that begins upon AT&T activation and expires at the end of three months or when 3GB of data is used, whichever comes first. To activate, go to www.att.com/ford. Don’t drive distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice controls.

Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance^®.