How to install updates in your vehicle

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Lincoln owner in backseat of vehicle looking at laptop.

Install the latest SYNC® with Voice-Activated Navigation software updates in your vehicle. To get started, download the software updates to a USB drive. After you’ve installed the updates in your vehicle, be sure to report the successful installation. 12

Before you start

There are a few things you should do before starting step 1:

  1. Take the USB drive with the software updates to your vehicle.

  2. Turn on your vehicle, and then turn on the radio.


    Make sure your car is in a well-ventilated area. Your vehicle will need to be turned on, with the engine running between 25 to 35 minutes. Make sure that your vehicle is not in Accessory mode.

  3. Plug the USB drive in to your vehicle’s USB port.

  4. Press the media control.

  5. Touch User Device on the Navigation screen.  Touch Settings and then Install.

  6. SYNC prompts, “Begin Installation?”  Touch Yes on the Navigation screen.

    SYNC prompts “Installing file…”  Do not remove your USB drive or turn off your vehicle while this update is in progress.  Shortly after installation has begun, SYNC says “Installation Complete.”  Ignore this message.  It refers to a specific phase of the installation, not the overall update process.  While the update is loading, SYNC will not recognize your mobile phone or media device.

  7. In another five to 10 minutes , SYNC says “Installation Complete.”  The system then reboots, which takes several minutes. Do not attempt to use SYNC during this time.

    SYNC may also say, "The system will now reboot. Please wait a few moments before using the system."  

  8. SYNC prompts “Installation Complete.”  Touch OK on the navigation screen, and then press the MENU control to exit installation mode.

  9. It is now safe to remove your USB drive. 

  10. Once you have installed the SYNC software updates, you’ll need to pair your phone again.   To complete the process, take the USB drive to your computer to report the successful installation.12,25


Quick Tip

Need help installing SYNC software updates?

Your dealer can also install SYNC software updates. There may be a charge for this service, so check with your dealer first. 

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