2012-2015 Ford Escape Sync 2 to Sync 3 Installation

The easiest way to upgrade to Sync 3 in your 2012-2015 Ford Escape! Follow this simple NaviUpgrade guide to upgrade a Ford Escape from Sync 2 to Sync 3. Add Apple Carplay to a Ford Escape! Add Android Auto to a Ford Escape!
If you have any questions please drop them in the comments below!
We will be teaching you how to program this Sync 3 Module into your car in an upcoming video, so subscribe and stay tuned!
What we use in the video (some links may be Affiliate Links)...
Sync 3 Display:
naviupgrade.com/shop/hardware...
Sync 3 APIM:
naviupgrade.com/shop/hardware...
NaviUpgrade Sync 3 USB Hub Adapter Harness:
naviupgrade.com/shop/accessor...
NaviUpgrade Sync 3 USB Hub Adapter Plate:
naviupgrade.com/shop/accessor...
GPS Antenna with Sticky Pad:
amzn.to/3gqssb6
Trim Tools:
amzn.to/39T0Lqo
Micro-Sized Torx Screwdrivers:
amzn.to/3gnxKUV
Metric Nut Screwdriver Set:
amzn.to/2VT6HqY (or your nearest Harbor Freight)
My Favorite OBDII Programmer for FORScan:
amzn.to/2Iq8qRu
Bluetooth FORScan Programmer:
amzn.to/2PWs4of
The Cheapest OBDII Programmer for FORScan:
amzn.to/3qDTUXO
0:00 Intro
0:16 Necessary Hardware & Tools
0:51 Removing Ford Escape Screen Trim
2:47 Removing Sync 2
3:57 Moving Sync 2 Mounting Brackets to Sync 3
5:44 Installing Sync 3
6:16 Installing the GPS Module
7:54 Reassembling Trim Pieces
9:53 Testing Sync 3 in the Vehicle
10:10 Installing Sync 3 USB Hub
13:13 Outro & Thanks for watching!

[@AdviceFromYourDad]

Got the kit to upgrade my wife's Escape and I was impressed with how it comes with literally *everything*. The upgrade process is easy and didn't even take as long as I thought it would. It's such an improvement that it feels like a much newer car. The screen feels better and the system is much more responsive. I highly recommend.

[@jeremyosullivan6075]

This video was fantastic! My Fiance has a 2015 ford escape and we bought the screen with that came with all of the stuff we needed and this video very simply and clearly explained all the steps in the process to succesfully install it. Thank you sir for this!

[@jaymax97]

You make an excellent installation video! Super straightforward yet detailed enough. Really man kudos to you! Hopefully one day in the future I can get this upgrade done, would love CarPlay.

[@alextapia6652]

Love the sections. I have this for my focus Navi Upgrade Rocks!!!!

[@christophervendemio6916]

Extremely helpful. I’ve never done anything like this, but your video helped me get it done in less than an hour.

[@NaviUpgrade]

Awesome to hear we were able to give you the confidence boost to get it done 😎

[@jevanweaver769]

Is it all just plug and play?

[@NaviUpgrade]

If you order from my store, yes! Plug and play, no programming needed ☺️ NaviUpgrade.com - $75 off with code S2TOS3. Kits back in stock on Tuesday or Wednesday!

[@josephkim2080]

Ll

[@msas6020]

We ordered their sync 2 to sync 3 programming software, and just did it today. It worked perfectly. It makes a big difference being able to use the steering wheel controls as they're supposed to be used. Thank you :-)

[@masteru549]

@EM como actualizaste SYNC 2 a SYNC3 sin quitar el HARDWARE amigo?

[@Vchat20]

Something that crossed my mind recently and may be worth looking into for SEO type stuff. The same process for the 2012-2015 Escape applies to the 2013-2015 C-Max model years (with the 8" touch screen/MFT of course). The relevant dashboard and center console components are 100% identical. As such, this video has been my go-to to link people who are looking to do this upgrade in their own C-Max. Just an FYI in case you weren't already aware of it. 🙂

[@NaviUpgrade]

Yeah I think I used to have this labeled as that but it didn't do as well for views.

[@HenryEgonu]

Your videos are quite detailed man. Keep it up.

[@NaviUpgrade]

Thanks sir, I'll try 😁

[@FunGoingFast]

Excellent tutorial. Thanks.

[@legendofthecamera]

Great work Brian!

[@NaviUpgrade]

Thanks Stanley!

[@danielyousefianberntsen5744]

Quality stuff bro!

[@NaviUpgrade]

Thanks, sir!

[@JDM_FD]

Great video

[@NaviUpgrade]

Thank you!

[@santaclaracountyresidentn1014]

Thanks brotha 🙏

[@austin63447]

Good job man

[@NaviUpgrade]

Thank you, sir!

[@DarrenWigfield]

Any tips for adding a backup camera to either the sync 2 or the converted sync 3?

[@brianhoffman1146]

Do you sell the whole kit or do I have to buy every part individually?

[@BobBridgesbob]

Great video! But quick question... if the car already has GPS and you are just upgrading from Sync 2 to Sync 3, do you still need to replace the GPS?

[@jeffliscano8770]

Awesome!

[@NaviUpgrade]

Thanks Jeff!

[@stashbob]

Brian, after this upgrade, can I use the Sync 2 APIM module/Screen for another vehicle. Was thinking about using it on my Sync2 F150 (non-Nav). the Escape Sync 2 that I am replacing is the Navigation version. Would there be programing necessary? Any info would be greatly appreciated!!!

[@dallastv7346]

Question, are you sure this would work with a 2012? The model changed a lot between 2012 and 2013.

[@amordeweso]

So what was the laptop for!? I was under the impression we were going To have to program or set something up ? Or is it already set up for my Escape

[@martijnblaak1428]

Hey guys, can anyone tell me.. do you make a back up of the PAM and/or APIM when sync 2 is still in? So when sync 3 is in, upload the back up and you are done? Or am I totally wrong? Please let me know! Otherwise it can be a pain to get is all correct and working probably.

[@DJCuhhhstin956]

Do you know if I can pay and use the at&t hotspot service one upgrade?

[@SergeyMaslatsov]

How can I do the same thing with my "empty" 2014 escape with 4" screen?

[@monte711]

I've found a couple options for upgrades with Car Play. Will you update the video and ability to order from your site?

[@clausmatera]

After installing the new one 3.4, my iPhone does not match any Bluetooth connection. How can i do? I have ford Kuga in Italy, the new navy is for the Escape...is this a problem?

[@imapcjunkie]

Desperately looking for a sync 2 - sync 3 upgrade for my UK 2016 Transit connect. I can't seem to find any kit that matches the 6.5" screen size I have. Also, I've been reading that the UK version will need 64gb storage for all Europe but if I only want UK, could I not get away with 32gb?. In any event, I've not yet come across the same dash set up I have or a UK version. Is this anything you could assist with? I have back up camera and rear parking sensors too.

[@zayedkhawfani1379]

It’s possible change from sync 1 to 3 ?

[@MysticTroloq]

Hi, great job. I have a question. I have got Escape 2015 with Sync2 and Navi. Can I just buy Sync3 removed from Forda Edge and install it in my car? Is there anything that I will need to configure, like rear park aid sensors or rear camera or it is just plug and play?

[@dannettaduncan1672]

I have a my touch ford sync and want to upgrade. All the info I read says I cannot upgrade to any other sync. What are your recommendations? Thank you

[@yourneck2]

🤯 content...... Just got a 2013 and can’t find a vlog for the 4inch screen to sync 2-3, does this apply to my application & if so it looks like I need facia,sync3, gps, usb correct? If not can you help direct me in my endeavor to up grade my dash pls......?

[@sierrakrebs4554]

could you use an aftermarket apple carplay device for this?

[@bradleybalow6165]

Converting 4 inch to sync 3 on Ford escape SE 2015. Do you have a kit for this conversion?

[@rosarosa1155]

What would i need to take my original sync screen radio screen thingy in ford escape 2016 to something better???

[@franksegoviacabral9895]

Do you have the complete kit for the Focus Sedan TI? Sync 2 To Sync 3 Upgrade (2014).

[@manorsuperintendentdent6457]

Hey this is awesome - my 2013 Screen just died so this is at least a nice upgrade. The question is two fold - why the GPS antenna being added? I have Sync 2 with GPS so do i already have the antenna? Then where is the video how to program the new unit - is it necessary?? Thanks - loved the video and your screen presence is very good and easy to follow.

[@NaviUpgrade]

Hey there! Sorry for the late reply, my phone got stolen last week. Normally get notifications on there so a bit behind on my KZbin comment responses! GPS is required since Sync 3 uses a different GPS protocol and connection. If you purchase from us it will come programmed and ready to go for your vehicle. I need to dig into my archives to see what ever happened with the programming video for Sync 2-3 in the Escape!

[@julioru64]

hola sabes si se puede actualizar de sync 1 a sync 3 en mi ford escape 2014? Saludos

[@Jdmf98]

After installing it, is it necessary to program it or not? Just doing this video would work or would I have to do something else?

[@msas6020]

Most of the functions work without programming, but there are a few that are very annoying which will not work if it's not program. For me the volume up and down button would work but you wouldn't see the indicator. It would just be frozen on zero. As well as the other steering wheel controls that would activate The Voice auction and hang up and answer the phone call. Those wouldn't work at all without the programming. It's possible there's more of that does not work or does not work correctly without the programming but I only had it unprogram for about a week. I would say it's definitely worth getting the programming which cost $50 from these guys. Then it's pretty simple to do. It does require having an OBD2 to USB connector, connected to your laptop with forscan on it. We got the connector off of eBay for cheap. Then forscan is a simple download that has a two-month trial you can use.

[@TamallaYEP]

What if I only have the back up camera and Sync 1?

[@xjm40]

Hey can you upgrade the Ford Escape 2015 with 4" screen to sync 3 -8" or bigger? its Sync 1 installed.

[@kywilliams31]

I need the same info. I was watching another tutorial and the guy had to make room by cutting away pieces of the dash so I’m trying to see if that is avoidable

[@danielphilpin7017]

Ok, so I’m looking to do this to my 2014 escape, I have the same 8” touch screen but don’t have the Sony sound, will this kit still work? Also does this effect my satellite radio subscription, will my oem back up camera still work, and will the steering wheel controls function as the normally do with the old voice control now activating Siri with apple CarPlay??

[@NaviUpgrade]

Hey there Daniel! Everything will operate as OEM. Pretty much same as yours works now but with much better touch sensitivity and CarPlay//Android Auto support. You absolutely do not need the Sony DSP system either as that's all set with programming. Sat radio subscription is done through the ACM not the APIM so you'll be good in that regard too!

[@ehehhefn8631]

Hi, can you show the programming?

[@niiiiiix]

If only there was some kind of Ford exchange program. I don't find it worth it for this high price to get SYNC 3 for Android car play support to cost almost $800. Nearly the same price as a Google pixel 6..

[@ptlewis2000]

Do you have retail partners who will do the install and make sure all the features work? Specifically in Sacramento/Roseville, CA? :)

[@sandhunasir2962]

Hi I am Sandhu I really like your videos about ford Sync 3 upgrade. According to your video I do well. Now I have problems with how to update software because in sync 3 version 2.2 but I need to update 3'4 please guide me what i need to do more please.

[@nicka1530]

Where do we get future software updates like you would for the original unit? Do I get it from ford pass app?

[@NaviUpgrade]

I would recommend my most recent video if your vehicle is from 2019 or before! Super easy to update both maps and software that way 🙂

[@historywillneverbechanged3974]

I have a question, I’m just about to do this upgrade but my cd player wasn’t working. Do you think if i remove the cd thing is it going to work still? I don’t need the cd anyway.

[@NaviUpgrade]

Unfortunately the ACM is necessary for all audio to work since it's the pre-amp in Sony cars and the amp in non-Sony cars. You could use forscan to turn off the cd player on the screen if that's the only part that isn't functioning.

[@nandojudok]

After installing it, is necessary to programming? Can you up load the video programming to Ford escape 2013 and how can I know if it is compatible for my car

[@msas6020]

Ours was a 2013 Ford Escape. Most of the functions work without programming, but there are a few that are very annoying which will not work if it's not program. For me the volume up and down button would work but you wouldn't see the indicator. It would just be frozen on zero. As well as the other steering wheel controls that would activate The Voice auction and hang up and answer the phone call. Those wouldn't work at all without the programming. It's possible there's more of that does not work or does not work correctly without the programming but I only had it unprogram for about a week. I would say it's definitely worth getting the programming which cost $50 from these guys. Then it's pretty simple to do. It does require having an OBD2 to USB connector, connected to your laptop with forscan on it. We got the connector off of eBay for cheap. Then forscan is a simple download that has a two-month trial you can use.

[@pravinchaubey2295]

This video is about Ford escape but when I goto buy kit on your website, there is none for the ford escape 2015 model. Do you have the sync2 to sync3 for ford escape 2015 model?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Absolutely do! I think vehicle search on the site is broken. Been on my to-do list but been dang busy 😭 naviupgrade.com/shop/hardware/sync-2-to-sync-3-kits/easy-escape-sync-2-to-sync-3-upgrade-2013-2015/

[@chopshop254]

I have a 2013 Ford Escape with just navigation. Can you tell me what I need from you to upgrade to sync 3 for Android auto?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Certainly. This kit will get you set up entirely. Non-Nav units will be in stock end of the week 🙂 naviupgrade.com/shop/hardware/sync-2-to-sync-3-kits/easy-escape-sync-2-to-sync-3-upgrade-2013-2015/

[@DvACtOid]

I have calculated those listed part prices, that's $790 from navi upgrade and 66 from amazon before taxes

[@NaviUpgrade]

We sell full kits now so you don't have to piece it together 🙂 $850 with nav but we have a code available -- KZbin for $50 off any Sync 2 to Sync 3 upgrade with nav!

[@FlareSlayer]

This may be a dumb question. Have you done a video for radio replacement on a 2013 Ford focus se. From syn 1 to 2

[@NaviUpgrade]

Hey there! We've done an upgrade from Sync 1 to Sync 3 in a 2012 Focus which is very similar! Check out our other videos!

[@FlareSlayer]

@@NaviUpgrade thanks you. I just wish my radio was more bluetooth friendly

[@NaviUpgrade]

I'd say go to Sync 3 if you can. Our harness can support Sync 2 but it's just nowhere near as good as Sync 3.

[@jp66ification]

I want to upgrade because I would prefer Android Auto. Can I use SiriusXM as an app on my phone with this Sync 3 if I upgrade from my factory Sync 2?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Absolutely! As long as you have the SiriusXM app on your phone it'll show up in Android Auto!

[@courtneytaylor2300]

If I use apple CarPlay, do I need the navigation? It would just use my maps on my phone, right?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Hey Courtney, if you plan to use CarPlay you are absolutely correct, you don't need factory nav 😊 Thanks for watching!

[@danieldoddridge3262]

I write tree times to Naviupgrade and never received an answer. Is that ok?

[@natikagilbert9532]

Can I go from a sync 1 to a sync 3 in my 2016 Ford Escape SE?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Errr it's a "kind of" at this point. Unfortunately ford didn't really make the escape very modular like the Focus and the Fiesta. Wiring is possible but mounting requires a bit of a custom solution that needs fabricated brackets 😬

[@tusharsonune575]

I have 2015 Ford Escape S variant . It doesn't have any screen . Can I install & upgrade with this device?

[@tusharsonune575]

My car doesn't have a Bluetooth & USB ports also. I need the Bluetooth & USB connection. Please recommend a solution

[@sandiehonsa2787]

I’m interested in doing this on my 2014 ford escape, but this is something I cannot do myself. Can you suggest where I might go to have this done for me? I tried a Ford dealership but they don’t do that. Best Buy? etc? I few years ago I might have tried it, but at 70 it’s a bit beyond me. Thanks.

[@NaviUpgrade]

Hey there! If you buy a kit from me I'm sure a local audio shop can get it done at a reasonable cost! I have 10% off for the rest of the month as well using the code BF2023 😊

[@sandiehonsa2787]

How much does it cost in total?

[@benjamindevoes8019]

In the beginning it was mentioned a laptop and ODB cable was needed, I didn't see them used, is that really necessary?

[@derricbb]

Wondering this as well. I have a 2014 Escape and looking to make this upgrade, but I want to make sure I have all the info to do it myself.

[@avsky95]

@@derricbb yes, that has to do with the programming using Forscan. Access the APIM using Forscan through the OBDII port and adjust the setting so it matches your vehicle. I think he also sell you the file to load in Forscan with the equipment. Not sure, but that's what the laptop is needed.

[@allinssonalmonte4350]

So no one has ever done a simple 4" inch sync to sync 2 upgrade on their 2013 escape? Do I need to replace the whole center console for this?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Dash swap most likely. There's a bunch of supports for the larger screen missing on the 4" dash setup unfortunately.

[@allinssonalmonte4350]

Man that sucks I got all the parts even the metal bracket where the radio sits on that screws into the frame. I bought the non Sony radio.

[@NaviUpgrade]

I mean you can try... There's a guy in the Kuga forums who did it and made his own brackets to support the screen. A bit janky... Just don't open it up for people and they'd never know 🤣

[@charlesmbhele]

Hey man, is there a way to go to sync 3 from 1 on ford kuga , having a tough time finding any videos

[@senordingdong2]

Escape is the kuga iirc

[@allinssonalmonte4350]

You are on my situation, seems like you would have to replace the whole dashboard for the one with the brackets.

[@clemnmzx141]

Recessed or Non- Recessed screen??

[@stephendverner]

What’s the advantage of going from a Sync 2 to a Sync 3 system?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Much more responsive and it supports CarPlay and Android Auto!

[@217nomiga]

My upgrade has this problem where when I turn my car off like for gas or to get Starbucks. My radio doesnt turn on for like 10 minutes. The whole apim is in like some timeout even the USB ports don't work. After like 10 minutes, I can hold the seek and power button for five seconds and it'll reboot and be fine. But it's just so annoying. So I leave my car on accessory while I'm pumping gas and then just kinda live with it when I make a quick stop somewhere else. Also, it overheats frequently and the screen will shut off if I'm driving into the sun or it won't even turn on if I left my car in the sun

[@NaviUpgrade]

Did you get your upgrade from me? If so, email me via the contact page on my site. Thanks!

[@richardza014]

do you have one for the 4 inch screen?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Unfortunately the escape doesn't have a module mounting system. You can diy it if you make your own mounts. There's a guide on my website that covers this... naviupgrade.com/all/resources/converting-a-base-ford-escape-kuga-or-c-max-to-sync-3/

[@lisad-m8585]

It is a very good video but I was wondering does it just work with voice activated like before?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Exactly the same way 😃

[@lisad-m8585]

@@NaviUpgrade so I talk to the GPS and it goes to where I want?? That would be great! Thanks so much for your info 😁😁😁

[@NaviUpgrade]

@@lisad-m8585 yep! And if you plug in your phone with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, the voice control button activates the Google Assistant or Siri which means you can control nav, music, texting, hear your calendar schedule and literally everything that those voice assistants have to offer!

[@lisad-m8585]

@@NaviUpgrade Thanks so much. Better than a GPS on dash. So doing this 😁😁😁

[@NaviUpgrade]

@@lisad-m8585 we'll have kits on our site that we can pre-program to your car in stock again on Monday ☺️

[@luixitocrazy]

is it possible to go from sync1 4 'to sync3? I would like to be able to do it but I have not seen anyone who does it. radio support changes a lot.

[@NaviUpgrade]

It is! We make a harness for it, but we haven't gotten our hands on one to do test fitment and a tutorial on getting everything mounted up. It might require some cutting modifications to get it to properly fit -- but then again, we haven't gotten our hands on one to confirm this yet.

[@luixitocrazy]

@@NaviUpgrade ok,gracias por su respuesta. espero que pronto sea posible es algo que me gustaria hacer hace mucho. Tambien he leido acerca de que hay que cortar lo soportes de sync 1, este es el menor problema. despues no sabria como atar la nueva pantalla.

[@masteru549]

¿Y no se puede actualizar el SOFTWARE del SYNC 2 al SYNC 3 sin quitar el HARDWARE amigo americano?

[@Water787]

Does this work with a non Sony head unit?

[@NaviUpgrade]

yep!

[@SerenoOunce]

What about the SD card for navigation?

[@NaviUpgrade]

Sync 3 uses a built in eMMC chip (like an SD card soldered straight to the motherboard) for maps storage. If you want maps, you have to get a module with maps on it already.

[@truthtimetv4575]

honest question why go sync 3 when you can just go aftermarket for literally 1/4 of the cost?

[@NaviUpgrade]

If you think about it… the cheapest Apple CarPlay/Android Auto head unit is a $300 JVC unit -- this will have a resistive touch screen and be just an 'okay' experience. Add in the cost of the Metra harnesses and dash kits, you're well within the range of doing an OEM upgrade such as this if you find the parts at a junkyard. If you go with a nice capacitive aftermarket unit the price doubles quickly. OEM will always look better in the car. If you're an audiophile you can either do the aftermarket option or program your ACM to output line levels for a good oem integration. It's really up to whatever your preference is.

[@NaviUpgrade]

Also, going aftermarket in a car that is equipped with Sync 2 or the Sony system is a lot more difficult than you'd think since the entire DSP system relies on a single high level input that is modulated via CAN/LIN (for EQ, Volume and Balance/Fade) from the Sync 2/3 APIM.

[@truthtimetv4575]

@@NaviUpgrade thanks for the reply that makes sense

[@lylelandman6205]

Crazy. Just found your video. It’s backordered currently. Plus they want $825. Anyone know of something else I can use (Ford Escape SE 2015)

[@NaviUpgrade]

Use code S2TOS3 for $75 off. Not sure why it says backordered - I've got everything in stock and ready to ship 😊

[@gotDIBS]

what about a sync 1 to sync 3

[@hosoojeon9576]

2015 포드 이스케이프 내것도 업그레이드 부탁드립니다

[@jamesdelius]

So no battery disconnection?

[@NaviUpgrade]

None needed 🙂 Canbus shuts everything down with key off.

[@larrypierce4333]

Some 2014 Escapes use 7mm screws instead of 8mm. Keep that in mind when. y'all take your APIM off.

[@msas6020]

Respectfully this video was not "fully" helpful. It repeated what almost everyone else is saying about this, but no one covers a very important thing which is the programming of the apim afterwards. That isn't a difficult procedure, but the actual numbers that need to be put in Forscan is what's necessary and I can't find any information on that. It can't really be called a successful installation when it's still not programmed to the car.

[@NaviUpgrade]

Hey there, no disrespect felt. Programming files given with every purchase are what differentiate NaviUpgrade from the competition (and all pre-made kits come preprogrammed to your vehicle) - giving config files away is not our business strategy. We are happy to help full DIYers complete their projects (and still save money vs us and competitors) with a custom programming file at the cost of $50. You can purchase a programming file specific to your vehicle and it's specifications here: NaviUpgrade.com/sync-3-programming Thanks for your comment and have a great day 😊

[@msas6020]

@@NaviUpgrade I apologize I had no idea that you do cover that aspect just part of your installation and not apart of your do-it-yourself video. Definitely nothing wrong with keeping parts to yourself that keep you in business. If I did more of that I'd probably still be in business. LOL

[@manuelgonzalezreyesdelcast4122]

M