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

How do I install SYNC updates?

You can find instructions for installing SYNC®* updates on the SYNC and Navigation Updates page. Instructions vary based on your SYNC generation.

  1. Visit the SYNC and Navigation Updates page.
  2. Either:
  3. Choose Check for update.
  4. Select 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. Choose USB Drive or Wi-Fi as your preferred installation method based on the options available for your SYNC generation and follow the instructions.
SYNC GenerationAvailable Update Methods

SYNC 4A

SYNC 4

Wi-Fi® with Software Updates
SYNC 3
  • USB drive: All vehicles
  • Wi-Fi: All vehicles except:
    • 2016-2017 model-year vehicles without a touchscreen
    • 2016-2017 model-year vehicles without Navigation

SYNC with MyFord Touch®

SYNC Gen 1.1

SYNC Gen 1

USB drive

SYNC with MyFord

SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation

SYNC with "P" Navigation

Ford Dealer

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 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

Can I drive my vehicle while SYNC is updating?
Is there a cost to download 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 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®.