Support>SYNC>SYNC Updates>How do I install SYNC updates using a USB or Wi-Fi?

How do I install SYNC updates?

You can download your SYNC®* updates 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 GenerationAvailable Update Methods
SYNC 4Updates are available only through Wi-Fi with software updates.
SYNC 3

Via Wi-Fi

Note: Wi-Fi updates are not available for:

  • 2016-2017 model-year vehicles without a touchscreen
  • 2016-2017 model-year vehicles without Navigation

With a USB drive meeting the requirements below:

  • Either USB Version 2.0 or 3.0
  • 8GB or 32GB
  • Formatted to ExFAT
  • Without a password
  • Completely empty

SYNC with MyFord Touch®

SYNC Generation 1.1

SYNC Generation 1

With a USB drive meeting the requirements below:

  • Version 2.0
  • 4GB to 32GB
  • Formatted to FAT32
  • Without a password
  • Completely empty

SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation

SYNC with "P" Navigation

Updates can only be performed by your Ford Dealer. 

Installing Your SYNC updates

  1. Visit the SYNC and Navigation Updates page.
  2. Choose to either:
  3. Select Check for update.
  4. Choose the dropdown under SYNC Updates. 

    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.
     
  5. Select 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 (Wi-Fi strength, internet speeds, time connected to Wi-Fi networks, 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

Can I drive my Ford while it is updating?
Is there a cost to download SYNC updates?
Can I upgrade from a previous SYNC system to a newer SYNC system?
What are software updates?

*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 wireless data trial that begins upon Bell activation and expires at the end of 3 months or when 3GB of data is used, whichever comes first, but cannot extend beyond the trial subscription period for remote features. To activate, go to www.bell.ca.

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