How do I schedule Software Updates for my Ford?

To ensure your vehicle is always up to date, software updates can be scheduled directly on your SYNC®* or Digital Experience®**-equipped vehicle. Software updates are delivered directly to your eligible vehicle via Wi-Fi®† or through the vehicle's modem. 

Some updates will happen in the background while you are driving. Non-driveable installations require your vehicle to be turned off for a short time. Setting up a recurring schedule will ensure your vehicle is always up-to-date and that non-driveable updates can occur when you do not need to drive.

Setting Up Software Updates

Important: Ensure your vehicle is running and in Park (P) in an open, well-ventilated, and safe area.

Select your SYNC generation 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. 

Notes: 

  • If your SYNC generation is not listed, it can not be updated with software updates. Refer to the How do I install SYNC updates? article to learn other ways to update your system.
  • Instructions may vary. See your Owner’s Manual for information specific to your vehicle.

Identifying Your Vehicle's SYNC Generation

Select a resource in the table below to help 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 the SYNC Current Version heading.

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

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 before beginning the update.
  • Connecting your vehicle to an external Wi-Fi can help download system updates faster. Learn how to connect to Wi-Fi.

Additional Information

Over The Air Software Updates Frequently Asked Questions

*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.

**Some Ford Digital Experience features require a Connected Services plan. Don’t drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. 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.

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