SYNC 3 in Ford

Stay on the Cutting Edge with the Latest SYNC 3 Software Updates

How to Update Your SYNC 3 Infotainment System

Just when we thought infotainment couldn’t get any better, Ford continues to keep SYNC 3 on the cutting edge with consistent updates. Get started adding latest SYNC 3 software capabilities and performance enhancements to your Ford vehicle with this guide on how to update your SYNC 3 infotainment system.


Navigate Confidently with SYNC 3
SYNC 3 Voice-Activated App Control

Updating SYNC 3 via USB Drive

Updates to your SYNC 3 system can be done by using a USB flash drive. To do this, you’ll need (1) an empty USB drive that holds 2 GB or more of data and is not password-protected and (2) an internet-connected computer.

PART I: Downloading SYNC Software Updates to your USB Drive 

Step 1: Log into your Ford Owner account aOwner.Ford.comor register for an account. 

Step 2: Click “SYNC & Vehicle Features” at the top of the page. 

Step 3: Click “Check for Software Update,” then “Download SYNC Update.” 

Step 4: Plug an empty USB drive into the computer and press “Start Download Process.” 

Step 5: Once the download is complete, locate and unzip the file on your computer. 

Step 6Save the file to your USB drive. 

PART II: Installing USB-Stored Updates to Your Ford Vehicle 

Step 1: Turn on your vehicle to ensure stable power flow throughout the update. 

Step 2Plug the USB drive with the saved update into the vehicle’s USB port. 

Step 3: Select “Menu” > “SYNC-Settings” > “Install on SYNC. 

Note: You should now hear an audio prompt confirming the update has begun. SYNC will now be unresponsive throughout the update. This can take up to 10 – 20 minutes. 

Step 4: Verify update success by selecting “Menu” > “SYNC-Settings” > “System Info. 

[ Read More: Identifying Which SYNC Version Is Equipped on Your Ford Vehicle ]

Updating Ford SYNC 3 via Wi-Fi

If your vehicle is equipped with SYNC 3 with navigation, updates can also be made right from your touchscreen by connecting to a trusted Wi-Fi network and enabling automatic updates. Before you start, it’s important that you park your vehicle in an area that’s well-ventilated and has a strong and reliable Wi-Fi connection. Here’s what you’ll need to do.

Step 1: Turn on your vehicle to ensure stable power flow throughout the update. 

Step 2: Go into “Settings” > “Wi-Fi” and connect to your Wi-Fi network. 

Step 3: Navigate back to “Settings”, then press “General” > “Automatic System Updates.” 

Step 4: Tap the “Automatic System Updates” slider to enable. 

[ Read More: How to Set Up Ford SYNC® Connect Wi-Fi Hotspot ]