How do I change the automatic software update settings in my Ford?

You can adjust your vehicle's software update settings using your SYNC®* or Digital Experience®** touchscreen, or the FordPass®† app.

Notes: 

  • Your vehicle will arrive with automatic updates enabled. Ford recommends keeping automatic updates turned on for the best ownership experience.
  • To schedule a future date or time for automatic updates, see our How do I schedule Software Updates? article.

Changing the Automatic Software Update Settings

Important: Ensure that your vehicle is on and running in a well-ventilated area, and is in Park (P).

Select the method you are using from the drop-down options below to learn how to adjust your Software Update settings. If you need assistance determining the generation of your SYNC®** system, select the first drop-down option.

Notes: Actual screens may vary. See your Owner’s Manual for information specific to your vehicle.

Identifying 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 the App Drawer icon on your vehicle's Digital Experience screen.
  2. Select Software Updates.
  3. Press the Settings icon.
  4. Toggle the Automatic Updates slider to your preference (On or Off).

Note: If automatic updates are off, you will not receive software updates automatically. You will be prompted to accept the updates.

SYNC 4A

  1. Tap Settings or the Home icon on your vehicle's SYNC screen. 
  2. Select System Updates.
  3. Toggle the Automatic Updates slider to your preference (On or Off).

Notes: 

  • If both Automatic Updates and notifications are off, your vehicle will not receive any updates. 
  • If Automatic Updates are off, but your notifications are on, you will not receive software updates automatically. You will be prompted to accept the updates.

SYNC 4

  1. Tap Settings on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  2. Press System Updates. 
  3. Toggle the Automatic Updates slider to your preference (On or Off).

Notes: 

  • If both Automatic Updates and notifications are off, your vehicle will not receive any updates. 
  • If Automatic Updates are off, but your notifications are on, you will not receive software updates automatically. You will be prompted to accept the updates.

FordPass app

  1. Log in to the FordPass app.
  2. Tap the Vehicle tab.
  3. Choose Software Updates.
  4. Toggle the Automatic Updates slider to your preference (On or Off).

Additional Information

What are Software Updates?

*Do not 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.

**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.

†The FordPass App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available through a free download. Message and data rates may apply.