Support>SYNC>SYNC Updates>How do I install SYNC updates over Wi-Fi or with a USB?

How do I install SYNC updates?

You can download your SYNC®* updates through Wi-Fi® or with a USB drive (depending on your SYNC generation) by following the instructions on the SYNC and Navigation Updates page. Refer to the table below to learn which method is available depending on your SYNC generation, and follow the steps to access the installation instructions.

Note: If you need assistance determining your SYNC generation, refer to the SYNC Visual Reference Guide.

SYNC GenerationAvailable Update Methods
SYNC 4Updates are available only through Wi-Fi with software updates.
SYNC 3

Via Wi-Fi

Note: Wi-Fi updates are not available for:

  • 2016-2017 model-year vehicles without a touchscreen.
  • 2016-2017 model-year vehicles without Navigation.

With a USB drive meeting the requirements below:

  • Either USB Version 2.0 or 3.0
  • 8GB or 32GB
  • Formatted to ExFAT
  • Without a password
  • Completely empty

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch®

SYNC Generation 1.1

SYNC Generation 1

With a USB drive meeting the requirements below:

  • Version 2.0
  • 4GB to 32GB
  • Formatted to FAT32
  • Without a password
  • Completely empty

SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation

SYNC with "P" Navigation

Updates can only be performed by your Lincoln Retailer.

Installing Your SYNC Updates

  1. Visit the SYNC and Navigation Updates page.
  2. Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or sign in to your Lincoln account and select a vehicle from your garage.
  3. Choose Check for update.
  4. Select the dropdown under SYNC Updates. 

    Note: If you have the latest SYNC software version, you will see a green checkmark and a message stating that an update is not available for your vehicle.
     
  5. Choose USB Drive or Wi-Fi as your preferred installation method based on the options available for your SYNC generation and follow the instructions.

Notes:

  • Installing USB updates can take up to 45 minutes.
  • For Wi-Fi updates, the download time can vary from a few hours to multiple days depending on internet-related factors (Wi-Fi strength, internet speeds, time connected to Wi-Fi network, etc.).
  • Depending on your SYNC version, you may or may not be able to drive your vehicle during an update. Refer to the Can I drive my Lincoln while it is updating? topic for more information.
  • You cannot connect to the vehicle's Wi-Fi hotspot** (if equipped) to install Wi-Fi updates.

Additional Information

Can I drive my vehicle while SYNC is updating?
Is there a cost to download SYNC updates?
Can I upgrade from a previous SYNC system to a newer SYNC system?
What are software updates?
How do I contact a Lincoln Way Client Experience Manager?

*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.

**Wi-Fi® hotspot includes complimentary wireless data trial that begins upon AT&T activation and expires at the end of three months or when 3GB of data is used, whichever comes first. To activate, go to www.att.com/lincoln. Don’t drive distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice controls.

Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance®.