Updating the SYNC radio on your 2015-2020 Ford F-150, F-250, or F-350 via USB is a relatively straightforward process that can enhance your infotainment system with new features, bug fixes, and improved performance. Keeping your SYNC system up-to-date ensures a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to perform the update:
1. Prepare the Necessary Materials:
Before you begin, you'll need the following:
- A USB flash drive with a minimum capacity of 2GB.
- Access to a computer with internet access.
- A Ford Owner account (you can create one on the official Ford Owner website).
2. Check for SYNC Updates:
Visit the official Ford SYNC Update website (https://owner.ford.com/tools/account/how-tos/keep-your-sync-up-to-date.html) and log in with your Ford Owner account.
3. Download the Update:
Once logged in, follow the on-screen instructions to check if there are any available updates for your SYNC system. If updates are available, download them to your computer.
4. Prepare the USB Drive:
Insert your USB flash drive into your computer. Ensure it's empty, or if there are files on it, back them up elsewhere because the update process will format the drive.
5. Transfer the Update to the USB Drive:
After downloading the update files, transfer them to the root directory of your USB flash drive. Do not place them in a folder. Make sure the files are in a format compatible with your SYNC system (usually .zip or .exe).
6. Safely Eject the USB Drive:
Once the files are successfully copied to the USB drive, safely eject it from your computer.
7. Start Your Vehicle:
Get in your Ford F-150, F-250, or F-350 and start the engine. Make sure your vehicle is parked in a safe, well-ventilated area.
8. Insert the USB Drive:
Insert the USB flash drive containing the update files into the vehicle's USB port. The SYNC system should recognize the update.
9. Follow On-Screen Prompts:
The SYNC system will display on-screen prompts to guide you through the update process. Follow these prompts carefully. This may include confirming that you want to update, acknowledging the terms and conditions, and verifying that the USB drive is inserted.
10. Update Progress:
The update process may take some time, depending on the size of the update and the speed of your USB drive. Be patient and do not turn off the vehicle or remove the USB drive during this process.
11. Completion and Reboot:
Once the update is complete, the system will prompt you and may automatically reboot. You'll also receive a confirmation message when the update has been successfully applied.
12. Remove the USB Drive:
Safely eject and remove the USB drive from the vehicle's USB port.
13. Test Your Updated SYNC System:
Verify that your SYNC system is working correctly and that any new features or improvements are functioning as expected.
By following these steps, you can keep your SYNC radio system in your 2015-2020 Ford F-150, F-250, or F-350 up-to-date and enjoy a better and more reliable infotainment experience. Regularly checking for updates and performing them as needed ensures that your vehicle's technology remains current and provides you with the latest features and improvements.