Support>SYNC>SYNC Updates>How do I install SYNC updates using a USB drive 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. Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or sign in to your Ford account and select a vehicle from your garage.
  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 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 wireless data trial that begins upon AT&T 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.att.com/ford.

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