How To: Update Ford SYNC 3 via USB! | 3.4 Update - New Look!

[@terrigriffin4249]

Thanks so much I couldn’t get this to work with usb until I came across your post. My Mac saves the download with just 3 files at the front so your detail about having those 5 files fixed it for me I just moved what I needed and it worked. This detail was not on ford FAQs at all so ived emailed them about it

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Glad it helped!

[@kaylaleonard7453]

yo my Mac dowloads a whole ass folder I can't figure this out you free to help?

[@pablogo3404]

@@kaylaleonard7453that’s where I’m at

[@ender_cz]

my S-max 2016 sync 3 was updated 2 hours.. i gave it up.. well done Ford :( UPDATE: after factory reset car updated after 30 minutes, but after few days it started to be very laggy.. Soo i downloaded cyanlabs syncupdater and updated to latest 3.4.. version which ford doesnt allow me to download..now is all perfect with latest maps, nice look..

[@chuckgilbert2035]

The hardest part for me on this was figuring how to use my computer. Once I got the file identified and moved it to the usb flash drive I started the MKX I have up and installed the usb. The system automatically started the update. Very easy to do this update. Wish I had done it earlier.

[@writtenskate522plays]

I have a problem where my car just doesn't detect the system update usb at all. My sync 3 version on both the car and the ford website says 3.0.17276. After putting in the vin number, the ford website tells me I can update to 3.0.23219. So I downloaded the files and put in on my 8gb exfat usb drive and the car would not detect the update. I did put the files to the root of the usb drive, just like this video. What's weird is that with the wifi method from settings, my car also can't detect the new update that way. It just scans, and then stops scanning like it already has the latest version, but clearly the ford website says I don't. What's the problem? I have a ford explorer 2018 by the way.

[@macmanmpls]

I am loving the goatee..thanks for the update video.

[@shawkard]

Thanks that’s really helpful as Ford uk 🇬🇧 wanted to charge me $220 for this task

[@chuckgilbert2035]

I was told $150 US, free was much better.

[@joaocesar8988]

I did everything correctly, the screen tells me the next time I turn on my car it will complete the update, but nothing happens. Still on version 3.0… Anyone got any clues?

[@FORBES4174]

Be sure to format your USB drive to exFAT before trying to install. your vehicle wont recognize the USB if it isn't formatted correctly.

[@zentrikin]

Do you have to do that no matter what version of sync youre on? Im on 3.0 right now in my 2016 Focus RS. Im also not sure how to format my USB drive to exFAT if you could maybe tell me please?

[@andreajewett3477]

Yes I'm unclear how to make sure my USB is exFat

[@zigarten]

@@zentrikin When you r-click on the drive, choose format then change the format to exFat HOWEVER, the latest instructions say that' sONLY for PRE Sync 3. I've tried both so far.

[@zigarten]

@@andreajewett3477 See note below

[@kacycarpenter6600]

Did both work or which one worked?

[@hermaneduarte265]

I have a question, not sure if you can answer, I know this video is already a year old. I recently upgraded to V3.4 22200, it successfully upgraded, however when I attempted to upload the .xml file back to the Ford Server, I get error and does not update on the server, still showing I have the older software. How to I fix this?

[@miketrejo2629]

I just updated my SYNC3, but it was just an updated version of SYNC3. It did not give me the option to update to SYNC 3.4. I did go thru the FORD website using the download to a thumb drive. All together it took about an hour. Did the chat thing with the Ford website and they confirmed that I now have the latest update to SYNC3, and that SYNC3.4 was not compatible for my vehicle. BTW: I have a 2018 F 150 Lariat. Thoughts…Thanks!

[@NotSoAverageFusion]

watch a video on youtube that uses CyanLabs. They’re the only way to get Sync 3.4 on older Sync 3 models (I have a 2017 Fusion Sport and it worked!)

[@mikeb.2166]

fyi - same here with my 2018 F150 Limited. seems latest is 3.0.20204 as of 8.28.2023. mine is acting super slow and wonky, GPS fails often (soft reset helps for a couple of hours maybe), was hoping software update would help but I think I have a hardware problem.

[@matthewfisher2707]

My man, followed the steps. When plugged in it says "installing application" then says "usb removed" and on and on it goes. Is this normal or should I try something else? Would hate to have to go to the dealership on this one as Im sure they will charge me my first born. 2013 Escape.

[@waynelle2010]

I have the same problem says updating the says USB removed. Don't know what to do.

[@RyanEmeryLovesCars]

If the engine is supposed to be continuously running during the update what are owners of hybrid vehicles supposed to do? I have a 2018 Lincoln MKZ hybrid

[@CarsMadeSimple]

As long as the vehicle is in the "run" position that is all that matters. The vehicle will cycle the engine on and off like normal to maintain battery.

[@RyanEmeryLovesCars]

@@CarsMadeSimple Thanks. That's what I assumed but wasn't sure. Nowhere does Ford state that in the instructions, they just say to make sure the engine is "running" the entire time. Really misleading. I guess they forgot about us hybrid owners with Sync

[@gregorybrown9474]

I have been waiting for almost two hours Toggling between updating software and connecting. Should I reformat my usb and try again.

[@deliaportillo9270]

What if the usb is on but the screen is not saying anything?

[@dobrenkijbog8805]

I read all comments. I did your homework. So, IF IT IS NOT BROKEN, DON'T ATTEMPT TO FIX IT

[@mommacaron90]

I thought this would be so easy. But every time I try to update it says there is a bad installation and of course the ford dealership said it will cost me almost 800!

[@beardedcueball]

They made it so difficult, didn't they? Then ford wants so much money to do it for you! They should do it for free! You used to be able to do the map updates for free, but now you have to pay for those...it's sad

[@Subarashii-naniii]

Hello, when I search the VIN number on Ford website only shows (Your SYNC will automatically update via Ford power-up) there is no option for USB or dealer like it showed you. Help please

[@floyd27860]

Is all this just for Navigation or is other stuff updated? I don't have factory navi; just Android auto.

[@viktorbarath]

Thanks for the instructions! Question: on Ford website it says first, you need to turn the vehicle into ignition mode (not start the vehicle). - So do I need to turn on my car, or just ignition mode? - How much time it takes to upgrade my system software? Thanks!

[@CarsMadeSimple]

I would run the engine to keep the battery charged. As for time, I would allocate at least two hours not that it will take that long but just to be safe.

[@viktorbarath]

@@CarsMadeSimple thanks man, need to admit burning fuel just to upgrade the software is very disappointing..

[@henpiotr]

Hello, the video is a bit old, but maybe you can answer my question. The ford webpage ist talking about something like a protokoll file. This should be played back to ford in order they know, you updated the system. How to get this protokoll file? Thx for support Piotr

[@NocholasP]

google the ford sync installation guide its written there. after the installation, shut down the vehicle, open and close door, lock car for 2 min, open again, start car again, then its written on the usb drive

[@akakak206]

It takes me up to to 1:30h .. and still not updated yet.. any solution!

[@CarsMadeSimple]

It took a long time for this one, it might have been just over an hour and a half actually.

[@akakak206]

@@CarsMadeSimple when i reinsert the usb .. will continue where it left or will start from the beginning

[@CarsMadeSimple]

@@akakak206 That I am not sure of.

[@esolis2309]

I have a ford fusion 2015 i upgrade to sinc 3 but doesn't have the heat seats and the map the map says there's an error download the maps any suggestions

[@terrablader]

does engine need to be running?

[@PhantomPhixer1]

Why do they have to make this process so difficult?Every Ford I've had is this same confusing mess

[@DrewColpurs]

Hi there, I have no connections to Ford, but I'm a professional software developer. The short answer is that this is pretty much as simple as it can be. If the car doesn't have access to the internet, you need to manually bring the update files to the car. USB is probably the easiest way to do so. You download the files to your computer (as a compressed folder because that makes the download faster and uses less data), you then uncompress the files and move them to the USB stick. There's not really a simpler way to do it, sorry.

[@DrewColpurs]

I am curious if other car companies do it differently. Do you know?

[@michellemoran7366]

Amen

[@CringeOMusic]

buddy this is easy as your wife😂😂

[@CringeOMusic]

@@DrewColpursno they're typically all like this

[@josephxxx4284]

It shows an 8/32 GB I only have a 64 gp you think that will work?

[@etozlu]

I've finally found out how to upgrade -> I downloaded zip file, but it's content needs to be organised first. I extracted files, created a new folder called "SyncMyRide" and moved .tar.gz files on to this folder and renamed all .tar.gz files by removing "SyncMyRide\" from the file names, and voila! Then the USB drive became readable by Sync3 and installation initiated. Installation took about 25min for me.

[@etozlu]

I also recommend you to check guide first -> www.ford.co.uk/content/dam/guxeu/uk/owners/resources-support/sync-support/update/SYNC_3_USB-Update-Guide.pdf

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Thanks for sharing!

[@SteveHynes1735]

I really appreciate you taking the time to post this. I have been trying for months. Even the ford dealer couldn't sort it. Doing exactly as you said here , made it work. I am so grateful.

[@michaell31]

how do you know if the apim is fualty or you just need an update. My infotainmnet screen is having issues- erratic radio- back up camera stays on- delay in radio coming on-

[@Sammysweetheart003]

Hey I recently updated my Ford, but the screen still shows up in 4 squares how can I change it so it can be as shown on your video I have a 2015 Ford edge titanium

[@Onoah86]

You can't you need sync 3

[@bobstermaher]

Mines just spinning and "scanning for updates".... Is it actually doing anything in the background??

[@gashin7279]

It takes forever just pissed off and gave up

[@vaggelisg9880]

Hello thank you for the video , I made the update as you did now the sync is 3.4 but after the update I have experienced problems with the Bluetooth connections, it can pair only one device and it disconnected multiple times. I tried master reset but no luck. Do you have any idea? did this happen to you also?

[@beardedcueball]

He works for a dealership, this isn't his car..he wouldn't know.

[@dobrenkijbog8805]

Don't fix it if it's aint broken

[@EnriqueGuzman-gz1iv]

I have a ford explorer 2020 xlt and today I updated to version 3.4.23188. The update completed very well but the system did not create the Log or .Xml file to upload it to the Ford platform. What I can do?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

I am unsure. I didn't see the additional file also when I created this video.

[@EnriqueGuzman-gz1iv]

​@@CarsMadeSimpleAccording to the PDF on the Ford website that explains how to do it, it appears in the last steps that after the vehicle is updated, a Log or XML file is created in the memory to be uploaded to the Ford website so that they are aware of the version. that the vehicle has so that when the next version of SYNC comes out, they can mark that update as for your vehicle. I don't know if you understand me completely. I'm using a translator because I don't really know English but I want the help. Anyway thanks for responding.

[@CarsMadeSimple]

@@EnriqueGuzman-gz1iv I read the same document and it did not create a file on my update either. Not sure why.

[@Stuntingonmycanam]

What’s new with the update

[@TommyGravenOfficial]

I tried this several times with no success. My system is still on 3.0. Even talked to ford about it step by step and my car won’t recognize the usb

[@tomdibble8983]

Same here, although mine is stuck on 3.3 (when I put my thumb drive in it says the USB drive is not compatible; I've tried with FAT and exFAT formats with identical results on both). It also won't do updates over WiFi. Did a full "Master Reset" and that didn't help either. From other videos, it appears that Ford's Sync platform is just buggy to the point that it will brick itself from further updates, and (at least per one Ford mechanic) the only recourse is to replace the ~$700 sync computer (plus ~1 hour of a dealership tech's time, so add some more on that bill). No thanks; I'll just live with the outdated software!

[@galimov2686]

Could you solve it??

[@jeffstana2923]

Vehicle updated. Sync 3 version reports 3.4 at the vehicle. Vehicle did not write a confirmation XML log file back to the thumb drive, therefore no way to report back to Ford website a successful update. Any best practice ideas about generating this report log without resetting the ECU?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

I was unable to find a log to report back to Ford as well.

[@notinmyyard]

it does not write the file to the root of the usb drive. look in the syncmyride folder

[@Draaklore6677]

I appreciate the video but as I was sitting here waiting for it to update like you said I went back through your video to see how long it possibly took for the update and it looks like you started at 10:55 and it was done at 11:58 been great to let us know that it was an hour to do the update

[@CarsMadeSimple]

It is noted in the video description.

[@Ollie8210]

I ran the update but the system said: First part of the update is done, the second part will resume when the engine is turned on again” I turned the engine off, waited for a couple of minutes and started it again. Now it just starts with the first half of the update again. Do you have any suggestions?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Hmmm. I would let it go for another little while and see. Ford's systems do not inform the user with as much information as Hyundai's and others.

[@notinmyyard]

if after turning off and back on it tries to update again, then the usb may still be plugged in. also dont forget to open and close the driver door after turning the engine off

[@drycreek9]

Does this work the same way for the old SYNC system? I downloaded the software update based on my VIN but I'm curious if the plug and play in the vehicle is the same as it is in this video.

[@CarsMadeSimple]

I don't have much experience with SYNC or how the systems functions. I can only assume the system will work as it is supposed to after the update.

[@E30OG1]

Mine really ain’t working, and it’s starting to piss me off, I’ve done everything and it claims it’s completed the update and then still says 3.0 👹👹👹👹👹

[@andrewchapman8980]

Updated my sync 3, installed successfully but after restart of the car the get navigation malfunction or does some options not work for a few minutes or something?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Interesting. I am not aware of this issue.

[@andrewchapman8980]

@@CarsMadeSimple seems to have come good now after a few restsrts

[@CarsMadeSimple]

@@andrewchapman8980 That is good to hear

[@markking6973]

Anyone in Essex wanna update mine ! Mine won’t do nothing over WiFi !! Pissing me off ! I’m only trying an update as when I turn the music up it goes more to the back speakers !! Hoping this update will fix this problem other wise I wouldn’t update .. cheers in advance

[@zinto_max]

How long did it take you to finish updating in the car? Love your video!

[@CarsMadeSimple]

I believe this process took just over 1 hour after plugging it in to the vehicle.

[@badtolz2122]

So you leave car running for an hour?

[@zinto_max]

@@badtolz2122 You can use the battery charger if you don't want to idle the car for such a long time

[@mayrarocks]

Do you unzipp it first, then add files to usb?

[@jerronwoods8438]

Extract it to an empty USB

[@Sarrell22]

I did everything and it started to download then a invalid file notice came up

[@radarprogramallcarinuae]

Bro after update finish coming Arabic language and map ?

[@elizabethlloyd4291]

Does the car engine have to be running and if so how long does it generally take to update?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

I would personally leave it running to be safe. I would allocate up to 1.5 hours for the update. These seem to take longer than some of the other brands I have done.

[@beardedcueball]

The vehicle does need to remain running the entire time, yes, You can drive the vehicle like normal once the update starts

[@dobrenkijbog8805]

@@CarsMadeSimple You'll burn all oxygen on the planet if you believe Greta Lieberg

[@soothingsounds4941]

My problem is the webiste says I'm upto date but I'm not so now what do I do? Probably going to dealearship but I don't want to.

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Every model/year varies so your specific model may be up to date. If you know it can be updated, then the dealer might be able to help.

[@Antuan815]

I did exactly what you showed but when I tried to install the update it says “This USB device is not suppprted. Please remove.

[@Zzsnake217]

It's gotta be a usb 2.0 got it to work.

[@1916eco]

you also need to format the usb to exFAT

[@thelonewolf267]

Oh I think you are going to get more views right now because there’s a bug or something that is making sync3 do a reset on some things

[@swatrivera4347]

Better instructions than Ford..

[@NomadByFate]

mine says that 3.0 is the latest and that it is updated for him....while is clear is not...as the 3.4 is latest....wtf ?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

It may differ depending on the model.

[@TommyVolckaerts]

I updated my tiny Ford KA+ from 2018 (Sync 3.0.1x) to 3.4, I was scared as hell but, it worked, and after reading everything 25 times , making sure I did everything right. That was mid-2021. I had done something similar on a BMW 3 series a few years earlier, not officially, but it worked and the saying does state, no pain, no gain (or just watch Rammstein and their song Zick Zack) The glorious Ford website (as with almost ALL manufactures) is crap, still says I have an update available from 3.0.1x to 3.0.2x. They can stuff their update in whatever hellhole they pulled it from, but I love the newer UI and everything works, I think, I got the non NAV version. But Android Auto was so much more stable I would say and of course, did I already mention the refreshed UI?

[@brianbettencourt5894]

well i got mine to update but its still only 3.0 not 3.4 .... guess mines just old lmao

[@joshwells6968]

Will this work if you're currently on version 2.0?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

If an update is available, it should update to the latest version.

[@joshwells6968]

It didn't, it updated to 3.0, so I guess I gotta sue ford

[@Idontwantausername1]

@@joshwells6968 this killed me

[@MustangTogunner]

my 17 edge didnt get the 3.4 update though

[@CarsMadeSimple]

It might be too old in terms of hardware.

[@mookyyzed2216]

My Edge just does an endless "searching for update" using the Wi-Fi. Never actually finds the update or automatically downloads anything. How the fuck is it 2024 and this shit is still an issue?

[@jaimani255]

I did everything you did but it says error code: LST_ERR05

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Sorry to hear! I don't know exactly what that code means but I bet you could find some assistance on some of the Ford forums. They usually have a bunch of useful info.

[@zentrikin]

I used the link and plugged in the usb and it said updating then completed after some time. Told me to remove the usb and everything would be updated the next time I turn my car on but nothing has changed. Everything is still the same

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Interesting. I would give it a few days to see if it finishes the update. It might have background processing to do.

[@zentrikin]

@@CarsMadeSimple ok I’ll give it a few days. Do you thinks it’s possible that I have the files wrong on my usb?

[@zentrikin]

@@CarsMadeSimple it’s still the same. Do you have any suggestions?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

@@zentrikin Unfortunately I do not. I would reach out to your local Ford dealership to see if they have any insights. The Forums/groups online also have great resources.

[@zigarten]

I have had this happen as well. Last visit to the dealership "we updated your system" no details given to the wife of course, because front staff never talk to the actual mechanics for very long it seems. Nothing has changed. So I'm trying on my own, again, for the 3rd time in 3 years, watta PIA when even Ford trained staff can't make it work. "We need to buy an explorer, I had one 20 years ago and they're great!" Sure honey, still great after 20 years, NOT.😑

[@marcowerner8739]

Mine doesn't say "Sync32". Why?

[@CarsMadeSimple]

It might have to do with the version you are updating from?

[@ercanural439]

Teşekkürler

[@Adrian864-t6y]

When I plug in usb nothing happening..

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Nothing may happen for several minutes but it should start updating within 5 minutes or so. If this doesn't happen, then the files may not be on the drive correctly or the USB not formatted correctly.

[@Adrian864-t6y]

@@CarsMadeSimple I will try do do again

[@Adrian864-t6y]

@@CarsMadeSimple Done.I changed the usb pen drive and worked.Thank you so much.

[@CarsMadeSimple]

@@Adrian864-t6y Sweet!

[@josearmando2731]

Turn ur vehicle off then plug the usb first then turn ur vehicle on then it will automatically start the update, it will show you updating system software…

[@sakmess]

After almost 2 hours more or less i gave up. Stack to updating system software. No fault or anything, no usb doesn't support, just an endless updating software. Its a joke honestly

[@bluesnake1747]

this has become the biggest PIA ever. I did everything just the way it say's to do it, plugged in the usb and it said it recognized the drive then as far as I could tell nothing else ever happened, sat in the car for about an hour and half with the motor running wasting precious expensive over priced gas and all that happened is the USB drive got so hot that it was almost untouchable. So here I am writing this and nothing has been accomplished after more than 5 hours of messing with this joke from FORD!!! AND they wonder why people are buying Korean Junkers? Clear as hell to me!

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Sorry to hear it did not work out properly. It is not as simple as the Hyundai/Kia updates for sure. If you do not see anything pop up at the top of the screen after 15 minutes or so, it is likely not doing anything.

[@bluesnake1747]

@@CarsMadeSimple Nothing popped up, finally I just let the car run and I went inside to watch a football game, checked it after 15 minutes of idle time and the motor had stopped running. So I don't think it worked for me at all. The instructions say in step 4 to report back to Ford and complete the update, re-connect the USB to your computer, 4.2+ "open the usb to access the XML file uploaded by the vehicle" obviously it failed because there is no >XML file on the usb drive!!! AAARRRGGGHHHH

[@zigarten]

Our other car was a 2004 Hyundai, it's getting near 300Km as my daughter now has it. Some rust, live in the north, runs when it's 40 below and blistering hot summers. Some maintenance for sure, few repairs, but I'm sorry but hey are no longer junkers at all (built in NA by the way) , as far as I'm concerned, the big 3 are now junkers imo, I have an infiniti, 2nd hand, it's nowhere near the PIA that the Fords have been.

[@thedailydosage8360]

Doesn’t even give me the option of how I want to install lol

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Over Wi-Fi or USB?

[@kingsmelting1595]

How about actually explaining it instead of just reading the steps off of fords website

[@marshaarmstrong6925]

Info is presented too darn fast!!!

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@PhantomPhixer1]

I have to agree...

[@zigarten]

Pause button works great, you can also adjust the speed of the video

[@TommyVolckaerts]

Pause button, KZbin has a pause button? No way 😁🤣

[@rgibson214]

Not much content on the "New Look." Disappointing.

[@CarsMadeSimple]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@TommyVolckaerts]

The UI has been brushed up a little, it is not a complete overhaul, but it looks more up to date in my opinion, of course, you can still not set and install themes like Windows can ....... I did my update to 3.4 mid-2021, coming from 3.0.1x.

[@melbowmb]

Too fast…

[@MorganneLeighPhotos]

You talked way to fast. Thank you

[@josephxxx4284]

It shows an 8/32 GB I only have a 64 gp you think that will work?