How do I use text messaging with SYNC?

You can view, send, or delete text messages by using the SYNC®* touchscreen in your vehicle. For general tips and instructions on managing notifications, see the information below.

Using Text Messaging

Select a topic from the drop-down options below to learn more about text messaging and SYNC.

General Tips

  • Your phone must have text messaging capability to use this feature of SYNC.
  • Before text messaging can be enabled, your phone must be paired to SYNC. 
  • SYNC will not download text messages that have already been read. 

Disabling Text Messages Notifications

To disable text messaging, go into your phone settings and change your permission settings. 

Note: The phone controls whether it sends text messages to SYNC. Instructions for this setting will vary by phone. If you need assistance, speak with your phone's manufacturer.  

Managing Text Message Notifications

To turn text messaging on or off with SYNC, follow the steps below based on your SYNC generation.

SYNC 4A | SYNC 4

iOS®

  1. Tap Settings on your phone.
  2. Press Bluetooth.
  3. Select the Information icon (i) to the right of your vehicle.
  4. Toggle the Show Notifications slider on or off.

Android™

  1. Tap Settings on your phone.
  2. Press Bluetooth.
  3. Select the phone profile.
  4. Toggle the Show Notifications slider on or off.

SYNC 3

  1. Tap Settings on your phone.
  2. Select Phone.
  3. Toggle the Text Message Notifications slider on or off.

Removing Text Messages

SYNC 4A | SYNC 4 | SYNC 3

To remove text messages from your SYNC screen:

  1. Delete the message from your phone.
  2. Press the Refresh button on the text message section of the SYNC screen.

Note: SYNC will not store text messages. Messages will only be available if the device has an active connection. 

SYNC Gen 1 | Gen 1.1 | SYNC with MyFord Touch®

To remove text messages from your SYNC screen:

  1. Perform a master reset on your SYNC system.
  2. Delete the messages on your phone.
  3. Pair your phone to SYNC.
  4. Download your phone book and text messages.

Note: SYNC downloads and saves the entire text message history automatically. 

Additional Information

What should I do if I cannot send text messages using SYNC?

*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.

iOS is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

The Bluetooth word mark is a trademark of the Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

Android is a trademark of Google LLC.