Support>SYNC>Troubleshooting>What do I do if my SYNC navigation is unable to find a GPS signal?

What do I do if my SYNC Navigation is unable to find a GPS signal?

If your map is spinning, not appearing, or you see an "X" (crossed-out symbol) or a similar symbol over the GPS icon on the SYNC®* navigation system, it may indicate your Navigation system is unable to find a GPS signal. Use the troubleshooting tips found in this article to help address your concerns.

Notes:

  • The signal loss symbol may appear in an area with poor GPS access, such as parking garages or other covered areas.
  • If this icon is displaying continuously, you are not in a poor GPS access area, and the map is not showing the vehicle in an accurate location, then this likely means troubleshooting is required.

Lost GPS Symbol Troubleshooting

Important: Ensure that your vehicle is on and running in a well-ventilated area, and it is in Park (P). Confirm that you are not parked under structures or other objects that could block the connection from your vehicle to the GPS satellite.

Choose your SYNC generation from the drop-down options below for possible troubleshooting steps.

Notes: 

  • If you need assistance determining the generation of your SYNC system, select the first drop-down option.
  • Actual screens may vary. See your Owner’s Manual for information specific to your vehicle.

Identifying Your Vehicle's SYNC Generation

Two resources to help you identify your vehicle's SYNC generation are the:

SYNC 4A, SYNC 4, and SYNC 3

To troubleshoot the GPS connection on your SYNC 4A, SYNC 4, and SYNC 3-equipped vehicle:

  1. Turn the Location setting off and back on within the vehicle:
    1. Tap Settings or the Home icon (varies by software version) on your vehicle's SYNC screen. 
    2. Select FordPass Connect®**. 
    3. Tap Connectivity Settings. 
    4. Toggle the Location Off and then On. 
  2. Perform a key cycle.
    1. Turn the vehicle off.
    2. Open the door.
    3. Exit the vehicle.
    4. Lock the vehicle.
    5. Shut the door.
    6. Step at least 5 ft away from your vehicle for 2 minutes.
  3. Perform a module reset.  

If the issue continues as you drive to different locations in the future, make an appointment with your Ford Dealer. 

SYNC with MyFord Touch®

To troubleshoot the GPS connection on your SYNC with MyFord Touch-equipped vehicle:

  1. Perform a key cycle.
    1. Turn the vehicle off.
    2. Open the door.
    3. Exit the vehicle.
    4. Lock the vehicle.
    5. Shut the door.
    6. Step at least 5 ft away from your vehicle for 2 minutes.
  2. Perform a module reset.  

If the issue continues as you drive to different locations in the future, make an appointment with your Ford Dealer. 

SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation

To troubleshoot the GPS connection on your SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation-equipped vehicle, perform a module reset.  

If the issue continues as you drive to different locations in the future, make an appointment with your Ford Dealer. 

*Don't drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible.  Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear.  Not all features are compatible with all phones.

**FordPass® Connect, the FordPass® App., and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see FordPass Terms for details).  Connected service and features depend on compatible Bell network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected service excludes Wi-Fi® hotspot.