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

How do I install SYNC®* updates using a USB 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.

Note: Instructions vary based on your SYNC generation (gen).

Identifying Your Vehicle's SYNC Gen

Use the following resources to help identify your SYNC gen:

  • The SYNC and Navigation Updates page allows you to enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or log in with your Ford credentials and select Check for update. Your current SYNC gen will appear on the right-hand side of the page.
  • The SYNC Visual Reference Guide has example images of each of SYNC gen.

Update Methods by SYNC Gen

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

SYNC GenAvailable 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
MyFord Touch®USB drive

SYNC with MyFord Touch

SYNC Gen 1.1

SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation

SYNC with "P" Navigation

SYNC Gen 1

Ford Dealer

Checking for and Installing SYNC Updates

To download 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 to download 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.