Support>SYNC>Troubleshooting>How do I perform a SYNC master reset?

How do I perform a SYNC®* master reset?

The steps to perform a master reset on your SYNC system can be found below.

A SYNC master reset erases all stored data, such as call history, text messages, previously paired phones, navigation favorites, and modem activation.

We recommend that you perform a master reset:

  • Before selling or transferring ownership.
  • After purchasing or leasing a pre-owned vehicle.
  • Before and after renting a vehicle.

Identify Your Vehicle's SYNC Generation

There are two resources to help you identify your vehicle's SYNC generation:

  • The SYNC and Navigation Updates page allows you to enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or log in with your Lincoln credentials, and select Check for update. Your current SYNC generation will appear on the right-hand side of the page.
  • The SYNC Visual Reference Guide has example images of each generation of SYNC Lincoln has offered.

SYNC Master Reset Instructions

Select your SYNC generation from the list below to learn how to perform a master reset.

SYNC 4

Before you start:

  • Your vehicle must be in park and running, not in accessory mode.
  • Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.

Performing a System Reset

Before performing a master reset, try a system reset to restore functionality. The system reset does not delete any data you have stored.

To reset the system, choose the option below that applies to your vehicle.

  • Vehicles equipped with a Power button:
    • Press and hold both the Power button (center of the volume knob) and the Seek Right button for 10 seconds.
  • Vehicles not equipped with a Power button:
    • Press and hold both the Volume Down and Seek Right buttons on the steering wheel controls for 10 seconds.

If the system reset does not resolve the issue, continue with a master reset.

Performing a Master Reset

Important:

  • A master reset will make all subscriptions (Navigation, ActiveGlide, etc.) unavailable for up to ten business days.
  • After the master reset, you must re-activate your vehicle in the Lincoln Way®** App for remote features (remote start, lock, unlock, etc.) to be available again. Click here to see how to activate Lincoln®*** Connect.

On your vehicle's SYNC screen:

  1. Select Settings.
  2. Press Reset.
  3. Select Master Reset.
  4. Follow the prompts on the screen to complete the master reset.

SYNC 3

Before you start:

  • Your vehicle must be in park and running, not in accessory mode.
  • Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.

Performing a System Reset

Before performing a master reset, try a system reset to restore functionality. The system reset does not delete any data you have stored. 

  1. Simultaneously press and hold the Seek up and the audio unit Power buttons until the screen goes black.
  2. Wait three minutes to allow the system to complete the reset.
  3. Press the audio unit Power button to switch the system on.

If the system reset does not resolve the issue, continue with a master reset.

Performing a Master Reset

On your vehicle's SYNC screen:

  1. Select Settings.
  2. Choose General.
  3. Scroll down, and press Master Reset. A message confirming that all system settings will be erased and reset to factory defaults will appear.
  4. Press Continue. A "Resetting to factory defaults" message will appear, the system will turn off, and the screen will go blank. It may take a few minutes for the system to reset and resume normal operation. 

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch®

Before you start:

  • Your vehicle must be in Park and running, not in Accessory mode.
  • Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.

Performing a System Reset

Before performing a master reset, try a system reset to restore functionality. The system reset does not delete any data you have stored. 

  1. Simultaneously press and hold the Seek up and the audio unit Power buttons until the screen goes black.
  2. Wait three minutes to allow the system to complete the reset.
  3. Press the audio unit Power button to switch the system on.

If the system reset does not resolve the issue, continue with a master reset.

Performing a Master Reset

On your vehicle's SYNC screen:

  1. Press the Gear Icon.
  2. Tap Settings.
  3. Select System.
  4. Scroll down, and press Master Reset. A warning screen will pop up.
  5. Disconnect all USB devices, Bluetooth devices, and any SD cards.
  6. Press Yes to complete your master reset.

SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation

Before you start:

  • Your vehicle must be in park and running, not in accessory mode.
  • Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.

Performing a Master Reset

  1. Press the PHONE hard button. The screen may read "No Phone Connected."
  2. Press the Settings tab on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  3. Select Advanced.
  4. Press the Down Arrow until "Master Reset" appears on the screen.
  5. Select Master Reset. SYNC will ask you to confirm the master reset.
  6. Press Yes to continue. SYNC will confirm when the master reset is complete.

SYNC Gen 1.1

Before you start:

  • Your vehicle must be in park and running, not in accessory mode.
  • Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.

Performing a Master Reset

  1. Press the MENU hard button.
    SYNC Gen 1.1 MENU button.
     
  2. Select the SYNC Settings option and press OK.
  3. Press the Down Arrow until "Master Reset" appears on the screen, and press OK.
  4. Press YES to continue. SYNC will confirm when the master reset is complete.

SYNC Gen 1

Before you start:

  • Your vehicle must be in Park and running, not in accessory mode.
  • Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.

Performing a Master Reset

  1. Press the PHONE hard button.
    SYNC Gen 1 Phone button.
  2. Press the Down Arrow until System Settings appears on the screen and press OK.
  3. Press the Down Arrow until Advanced appears on the screen and press OK.
  4. Press the Down Arrow until "Master Reset" appears on the screen and press OK. SYNC will ask you to confirm the reset.
  5. Press OK to confirm. The system will display read "Reset Completed."

*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. 

**The Lincoln Way App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available through a free download. Message and data rates may apply.

***Lincoln Way Connect (optional on select vehicles), the Lincoln Way App, and Complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see Lincoln Way Terms and Conditions for details). Connected Service and features depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent the operation of connected features. Connected Service excludes Wi-Fi hotspot.