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

How do I install SYNC updates with a USB drive or Wi-Fi?

You can find instructions for installing SYNC®* updates by Wi-Fi** or a USB drive, also known as a thumb or flash drive, on the SYNC and Navigation Updates page. Instructions vary based on your SYNC generation.

Identifying Your Vehicle's SYNC Generation

Select a resource in the table below to help you identify your vehicle's SYNC generation.

ResourceInstructions
SYNC and Navigation Updates page

Either:

Your SYNC generation will appear on the right side of the page under the “SYNC Current Version” heading.

SYNC Visual Reference GuideView example images of SYNC generations that Ford has offered.

Update Methods by SYNC Generation

Use the table below to see what update options are available for your SYNC system.

SYNC GenerationAvailable Update Methods

SYNC 4A

SYNC 4

Wi-Fi with Software Updates
SYNC 3
  • USB drive: All versions 
  • Wi-Fi: All versions 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

Checking for and Installing SYNC Updates

To see if there is an update available and install SYNC updates:

  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 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 network, etc.).
  • Depending on your SYNC version, you may or may not be able to drive your vehicle during an update. Refer to Can I drive my Ford while it is updating? 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.

**Requires in-vehicle USB mobile broadband connection, PAN-supported mobile device or proximity to an outside wireless hotspot. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.