How To Update Ford Sync
- Marc Ebdrup
- Aug 18, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 22, 2023

Is your Ford Sync software outdated and in need of an update? Don't fret! Updating the Ford Sync software is a simple process that can greatly enhance your driving experience.
Ford Sync is a popular in-car technology system that allows drivers to connect their smartphones and other devices to their vehicle's entertainment and navigation systems.
Over time, however, the software may become outdated, leading to compatibility issues and limited functionality.
Updating the Ford Sync software is essential to ensure that you are getting the most out of your Ford vehicle technology. By following a few simple steps, you can easily update the software and enjoy the latest features and improvements. In this article, we will guide you through the process of updating your Ford Sync software, ensuring that you stay connected and informed on the road.
What Is Ford SYNC?
The Ford SYNC system seamlessly integrates in-vehicle communication and entertainment, revolutionizing connectivity. This innovative system facilitates hands-free interaction with your Bluetooth-enabled phone, empowering you to effortlessly make calls, receive directions, manage music, and utilize apps through intuitive voice commands.
Furthermore, SYNC bridges the gap between your mobile phone and your vehicle's central display via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, thereby expanding possibilities. Delve into streaming music, and podcasts, and unlock FordPass Connect's potential, allowing remote control over essential functions such as start, stop, lock, unlock, and locate your Ford vehicle. Even more impressively, FordPass Connect accommodates up to 10 devices, affording connectivity through a robust 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, extending its reach up to 50 feet from the vehicle.
As technology forges ahead, Ford prioritizes the SYNC system's optimization, consistently rolling out automatic system updates. These updates elevate their capabilities, enhance overall performance, and address any glitches or concerns.
By diligently maintaining that the sync app's software is up-to-date, you unlock access to the latest features, ensuring an uninterrupted and cutting-edge user experience.

How To Update SYNC In Your Ford Vehicle
To ensure your Ford car, is up-to-date with the latest SYNC settings and sync software updates, follow these steps:
First, make sure you have an empty flash or USB drive with a capacity of at least eight gigabytes.
Next, gather your vehicle's VIN and set aside at least 30 - 35 minutes to complete the update. You can conveniently find the Ford SYNC software download in the SYNC Help section of the official Ford website.
One of the advantages of updating SYNC is that you can continue driving your vehicle during the update process.
By regularly updating SYNC with the latest sync software updates, you can enjoy enhanced features and improved performance in your Ford F-150 vehicle.
Step 1: Format The USB Drive
To enhance the performance of your Ford SYNC upgrade, it is important to properly format your USB. Follow these steps to format the USB drive using both a PC and a Mac:
Format Using a PC:
Connect the USB drive to your PC.
Click on Start, then navigate to File Explorer, and select This PC.
Right-click on the USB drive and choose the Format option.
In the File System box, select EXFAT.
Assign a label of your choice for the USB drive.
Click Start and patiently wait for the formatting process to complete.
Once done, click OK.
Format Using A Mac:
Connect the USB drive to your Mac.
Access Applications and Utilities, then open Disk Utility.
Choose your USB drive from the list of available drives.
Click on the Erase tab.
Provide a name for the USB drive and select the EXFAT format.
Click Erase to initiate the formatting process.
Step 2: Download Ford SYNC Software
Now that you have formatted your USB drive, it's time to download the technologically advanced Ford SYNC software from the official Ford website. Follow these steps to complete the download:
Navigate to the SYNC Help section of the Ford website to access the current Ford vehicle lineup and information about the latest SYNC software.
Make sure you are downloading the correct software for your Ford vehicle's model by entering its VIN and clicking on Prepare SYNC Download.
Save the software as a file on your desktop rather than on the USB. It will make it easier for you to find and access the software in the future.
Unzip the downloaded file and save it to your USB drive. This will ensure that the software is properly installed and accessible for your Ford vehicle.
Open your USB drive and locate the appropriate files according to the version of SYNC your vehicle has. For MyFord Touch/SYNC 2 and SYNC 3, look for the SyncMyRide folder and autoinstall.lst file and DONTIND.MSA file. For earlier versions of SYNC, look for the SyncMyRide folder and the file ending in .last.
Upload the corresponding files to your USB, depending on your version of Ford SYNC. This will allow the software to be properly installed and updated in your vehicle, providing performance enhancements and automatic updates.
By following these steps and utilizing the trusted Wi-Fi network provided by Ford, you can easily download and install the latest Ford SYNC software to ensure a technologically advanced experience with your Ford vehicle.
Step 3: Install SYNC Update
Now that you have prepared your USB drive with the SYNC update, you can proceed with the installation process. Remember to keep your vehicle parked while launching the installation and ensure that your car is running until the update is complete. The update must be performed in a well-ventilated area and should not be performed in a closed garage. Follow the steps below to install the SYNC update:
Take all USB drives out of your vehicle.
Connect your vehicle's USB port to the flash drive that contains the updated SYNC software.
The update will automatically begin, and it should take approximately 30 - 35 minutes to complete.
Once the update is installed and completed, an "Installation Complete" pop-up will appear on your vehicle's dashboard screen.
Update your vehicle's records by logging the activity into the system.
Connect the flash drive to your PC and install the SYNC update.
On the SYNC Help section of the Ford website, click the "Browse to Log File" button.
Select the XML log in the SyncMyRide folder.
With these three steps completed, your SYNC update is now finished, and you can start using all the advanced technology in your newly updated SYNC system.
Conclusion
Updating your Ford Sync software is a simple yet crucial step to enhance your driving experience. By ensuring your technology remains current, you unlock the full potential of your Ford vehicle's features. Stay connected, informed, and enjoy improved performance down the road. Keep your Ford Sync up-to-date for a seamless and advanced driving adventure.
