In this video, I explain the process for upgrading your Ford Sync 3 to version 3. While there is an option to update over WiFi, I found it slow and unreliabl. The SYNC 3 system has unique hardware and software systems. If your vehicle contains SYNC 3, you might be eligible for an update. However, you cannot upgrade between SYNC hardware versions. This means that if your vehicle has SYNC 1 or 2 (MyFord Touch) then you are not eligible to upgrade to SYNC 3.
Ford Sync 3 2.2 Update Download
Did you know you can update SYNC 3 on a 2016 Ford?
2017 model year Ford’s equipped with the SYNC 3 system will already have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, for some 2016 model years, you can now update SYNC 3 to be compatible with the latest smartphone technology.
Click the link to find out more, If you’re not yet familiar with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Ford Sync 3 Reviews
Ford SYNC 3 compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
There are various versions of the SYNC system depending on the year, model and trim level of the vehicle. For this update to work, it must be the SYNC 3 version.
How to tell if the vehicle has SYNC 3?
Checking the owners manual is one to determine which SYNC version the vehicle has.
SYNC3 systems look similar to the photo above. The screen will either be a 6.5″ or 8″, in color and a touchscreen. It will also have icons for music, phone and (if equipped) navigation along the bottom of the screen.
There are 3 different ways to update the system
- At your local Ford dealership
- Via in-vehicle Wi-Fi connection
- Through a USB update that you can do yourself
How to update SYNC 3 via USB (VIDEO)
“Our SYNC 3 software platform was designed to be easy to update so we can get our customers the latest and greatest features, functionally and security enhancements,” said Don Butler, executive director, Ford Connected Vehicle and Services.
To update SYNC 3, does not cost anything to download.
You will need an active SYNC Owner account. If you do not have one, you can sign up or register here. You will need your VIN number for this. Your Vehicle Identification Number can be found on the side of the driver-side door or surrounding pillars. Log in to your account and navigate to the SYNC software updates page.
This is found near the top where it says, ‘SYNC and Vehicle Features’. You will see a message that says “You have an update available”.
How to Update Sync 3
Insert a USB storage device (aka as a USB dongle) into your computer and download to the file, by selecting “Start Download Process”. Save the ‘ZIP’ file to your computer. ZIP files are large files and so must be saved to your computer first. Then, ‘unzip‘ the folder (usually by double-clicking on the folder).
Now, save or transfer the files to the USB. Find the file with the name ‘installing updates to SYNC’, click on it and eject the USB drive.
Note that Ford recommends using a USB storage device that has at least 32GB of free space, and not password protected.
Take the USB to your vehicle. Start the car or truck (all the way on- not just accessory mode) and keep it in ‘Park’. Remove all other USB connections. cables and media devices.
Insert your USB with the software update. It will automatically begin updating. When the update is complete, you should remove the USB and take it back to your computer. Within your owners’ account, click ‘Confirm update’, insert USB then follow the instructions. This is important in case there are future updates or issues with the system.
Which pickup trucks have Apple CarPlay and/or Android Auto.
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This thread lists out the steps to carry out the update successfully. Prerequisites require a Ford vehicle (which in my case if Ford Endeavour) with SYNC3 system and Ford Owners login page.
Getting the update package:
Step 1: Log-in on the Ford Owners and check if the update is available.
Step 2: Click on Update New Version which would open a new pop-up window.
Step 3: Clicking on Request Download will take you to a user agreement which if you agree would start the process of generating a customized VIN specific download package and it’s link would be shared with-in 24 hours.
Step 4: Depending on the load on the server, the email with directions to return to update page with embedded link in the text SYNC Software Update would be received. In my case, the email was received in a couple of minutes. Clicking on the link embedded text would take you to the pop-up with info on downloading the package where clicking on OK and then Start Download would start the download. The last pop-up also lists to have a FAT32 formatted 8GB or more pen drive ready. The package itself could be a large file and might take time in download. In my case, the package size was 3.2 GB. Soon after the download starts, an email would be received to report successful installation of SYNC Software update. More on this later.
Step 5: One the download is complete, the contents of the zip file need to be uncompressed and then copied to a pen drive of 8GB or more from a Windows PC as Mac adds certain unrecognized hidden files as well.
Update sequence which would be followed