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

How do I install SYNC®* updates over Wi-Fi or with a USB**?

The SYNC and Navigation Updates page provides instructions for installing SYNC updates by Wi-Fi or a USB drive, also known as a thumb or flash drive.

Note: Instructions vary based on your SYNC generation (gen).

Updating SYNC

Select from the drop-down options below to check for and install SYNC updates:

Note: If you need assistance determining the generation of your SYNC system, select the first drop-down option.

Identifying Your Vehicle's SYNC Gen

Two resources to help you identify your vehicle's SYNC gen are:

  • SYNC and Navigation Updates page and either:
    • Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and select Check for update.
    • Log in with your Lincoln credentials, choose a vehicle from your garage, and select Check for update.

Note: Your SYNC gen will appear on the right-hand side of the page.

Update Methods by SYNC Gen

Use the table below to see what update options are available for your SYNC system.

SYNC GenAvailable Update Methods
SYNC 4Wi-Fi with Software Updates
SYNC 3
  • USB drive - all versions 
  • Wi-Fi - all versions except 2016 - 2017 model-year vehicles without a touchscreen
MyLincoln Touch®USB drive

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch

SYNC Gen 1.1

SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation

SYNC with "P" Navigation

SYNC Gen 1

Lincoln Retailer

Checking for and Installing SYNC Updates

To download and install 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 and follow the instructions.

Notes: 

  • Installing USB updates can take up to 45 minutes.
  • Reference the article, USB requirements for a SYNC update, if needed.
  • 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 be unable to drive your vehicle during an update. Refer to Can I drive my Lincoln while it is updating for more information.
  • You cannot connect to the vehicle's Wi-Fi Hotspot (if equipped) to install Wi-Fi updates.

Confirming the Completed Update

Important: This confirmation process is only for USB-installed updates in vehicles with SYNC 3.

Refer to step 4 on the SYNC website where you downloaded your update:
screenshot of confirm update for SYNC updates on the ford.com/support site

  1. Ensure your USB is inserted into your computer and the drive for the USB is open. 
  2. Select Browse for Log File on the website. 

  3. Upload the .xml file to the USB drive. The file name should include the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 

    Note: If you do not see the log/.xml file, you can report the update from within the vehicle:

    1. Confirm the vehicle is in Park (P) with the engine running.
    2. Confirm the vehicle is connected to Wi-Fi.
    3. Select Settings on the vehicle's SYNC screen.
    4. Tap Automatic System Updates, and then toggle it On.

    5. Tap Scan for Updates Now.

      Note: This connects the vehicle with Lincoln's servers and reports updates within 7-10 business days.

If the log/.xml file did not work, and you do not want to report the update from within the vehicle, visit your preferred Lincoln Retailer.

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?
What are the USB requirements for a SYNC update?
How do I format my USB drive to exFAT or FAT32 for SYNC updates?
How do I contact a Lincoln Way Concierge?

*Don’t drive while distracted. Use voice-operated systems when possible; don’t use handheld devices while driving. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.

**Requires in-vehicle USB mobile broadband connection, PAN-supported mobile device, or proximity to an outside wireless hotspot. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.