How do I schedule software updates for my Ford?

Software updates are delivered directly to your eligible vehicle via Wi-Fi®* or through the FordPass® Connect** (modem). Some updates will happen in the background while you are driving. Non-drivable installations require your vehicle to be turned off for a short time. 

To ensure your vehicle is always up-to-date, you can set a recurring schedule so updates can occur when you do not need to drive. 

Setting Up Software Updates

Important: Your vehicle must be parked and running, and in an open, well-ventilated, and safe area.

Select your vehicle's software type or FordPass®† from the drop-down options below to learn how to schedule software updates. If you need assistance determining the generation of your SYNC®†† system, select the first drop-down option.

Note: If your SYNC generation is not listed, it is not updated with software updates.

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 SYNC Current Version.

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

Ford Digital Experience

  1. Tap on the App Drawer icon.
  2. Select Software updates.
  3. Press the Settings icon.
  4. Tap Recurring update schedule.
  5. Choose your preferred day and time

Notes: 

  • For updates that require your vehicle to be turned off, the door locks will remain as they were (locked or unlocked) when the update starts. Personal belongings should be removed from your vehicle or secured.
  • Connecting your vehicle to an external Wi-Fi® can help download system updates faster. Learn how to connect to Wi-Fi.

SYNC 4A

  1. Tap the Settings or Home icon on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  2. Select Software Updates.
  3. Press Schedule Updates.
  4. Choose your preferred days and times.
  5. Press Save.

Notes: 

  • For updates that require your vehicle to be turned off, the door locks will remain as they were (locked or unlocked) when the update starts. Personal belongings should be removed from your vehicle or secured.
  • Connecting your vehicle to an external Wi-Fi® can help download system updates faster. Learn how to connect to Wi-Fi.

SYNC 4

  1. Tap Settings on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  2. Choose Software Updates. 
  3. Press Schedule Updates. 
  4. Select Schedule. 
  5. Choose your preferred day and time. 
  6. Press Save.

Notes:

  • For updates that require your vehicle to be turned off, the door locks will remain as they were (locked or unlocked) when the update starts. Personal belongings should be removed from your vehicle or secured prior to beginning the update.
  • Connecting your vehicle to an external Wi-Fi® can help download system updates faster. Learn how to connect to Wi-Fi.

FordPass App

1. Log in to the FordPass app.
2. Tap the Vehicle tab.
3. Select Settings.
4. Press Software Updates.
5. Toggle the Automatic Updates slider to your preference.

Additional Information

How do I accept software updates?

*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.

**FordPass Connect, (optional on select vehicles), the FordPass® App., and complimentary FordPass Connect Service are required for remote features (see FordPass Terms for details). Connected service and features depend on compatible cellular network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. FordPass Connect Service excludes Bell Wi-Fi hotspot.
At purchase, the FordPass Connect modem is connected and sending vehicle data (e.g., diagnostics) to Ford. To disable, or for more information, see in-vehicle connectivity settings. Learn more at www.fordconnected.com.

†FordPass® App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply. 

††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.