Ford’s Sync system delivers hands-free connectivity. But you may need to troubleshoot it a bit first.
The concept of the in-car entertainment system has evolved significantly over the years. Decades ago, you had to make do with an AM/FM radio, plus whatever the “bring your own music” tech of the day was. From eight tracks to cassettes, to compact discs, each felt very advanced for their time. Eventually, digital storage became more attainable and you could plug a device into a car and play dozens, or even hundreds of songs depending on their file size.
Meanwhile, the level of information that you could get about a car, and the world around it, was evolving too. Early data on a car’s systems and status was limited to continually pushing a button to cycle through a tiny menu made up of large pixels.
Eventually, as the technology evolved, you could view audio, and a few ancillary details, on a more advanced screen.
The touchscreen functionality revolutionized the automobile. The notion of selecting a radio station, or opening a menu to view a system setting with just a finger tap was huge. Ford wasted no time joining the integrated in-vehicle communications and entertainment system trend. They smartly decided to partner with a provider who knew a thing or two about computing, Microsoft. One of the pioneers of the personal computer, and just as important, the personal computer operating system, was brought in to build Ford’s “infotainment system.”
That term, a hybrid of information and entertainment, now describes just about every touchscreen-based automotive system. Most, if not all, connect through Bluetooth technology. Bluetooth was introduced in 1989 and is basically a short-range wireless technology standard that is used in a variety of applications.
Specifically, it is present in just about every modern automobile, including those using Ford’s Sync system. If you are thinking of purchasing a new or used car with the Sync system, we will run you through some of the great features, but also some of the known problems of the Sync system.
What is Sync?
The first two generations of the system were dubbed “Ford Sync” and then “MyFord Touch”. Much like a personal computer, they had their own operating system to manage all those 1s and 0s. Those early generations of the Sync system ran off a Windows Embedded Automotive operating system.
Those who thought “I don’t want my car to have the dreaded ‘blue screen of death” weren’t totally off (more on that in a bit). The third generation (also known as “Sync 3”) that is in most current-day Fords, runs on a new commercial Unix-like real-time operating system called QNX, built by BlackBerry Limited. The latest Sync 4 was released with the 2021 model year Ford Mustang Mach-E and will be available in the 2021 Ford F-150 and 2021 Ford Bronco.
Like a lot of automakers, Ford spends a significant amount of time on the software for their vehicles. The original concept of Sync was fairly simple, Ford wanted to leverage the latest Bluetooth technology to be able to link smartphones, or other digital media, directly to the car’s infotainment system. The system was fairly simple at first but has continued to expand in scope and capability.
In addition to emergency and roadside assistance functions, Sync evolved to host a variety of applications, from traffic and weather to diagnostics on vehicle health.
Which Version of Sync Do I Have?
Generally speaking, you can figure out which system you have just by looking at it. Ford has provided a quick visual guide as well. Typically, the smaller the screen, the older the system. Systems have gone from tiny LCD screens to massive next-generation touchscreens. Here’s a quick overview of each system.
- Sync (Gen one) ran for about five years, from September 2007 through November 2012. You can identify it as having either a simple horizontal two-line display that only displayed basic information, like caller ID, song titles, a digital clock, outside temperature, or a larger (but still small by today’s standards) 4.2-inch color cluster display. An updated version, Sync with Voice-Activated Navigation, had a larger color navigation screen in the center console that displayed 3D maps and marked landmark icons along the route.
- Sync with MyFord Touch debuted in the 2011 Ford Edge and ran through a portion of the 2015 model year. It has an interactive eight-inch color touchscreen in the center console.
- Sync 3 was launched in 2015 and is still present in most Ford vehicles. It has either a 6.5-inch or eight-inch, color touchscreen, and provides access to a phone’s, audio, and navigation information (if equipped).
- Sync 4 is brand new for the 2021 model year, and was launched in the 2021 Mustang Mach-E. You can opt for the eight-inch or massive 15.5-inch touchscreen, which features new over-the-air updates, cloud connectivity, and a next-generation natural voice-recognition system.
What Does Each Version of Sync Do?
Within the first Sync generation, there were a handful of versions. The first was primarily focused on hands-free calling and playing media, while the second (released in 2008) offered expanded functionality, including 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report. Sync version 3, which was deployed in April of 2009, added traffic, directions, and a new “information” app. A handful of minorly updated versions followed.
MyFord Touch (also branded as MyLincoln Touch in Lincoln vehicles) was basically Sync gen two and was also based on Microsoft tech. With a larger 6.5-inch or eight-inch color touchscreen, it was easier to view content, and with a media hub that included two USB ports, SD card reader, and RCA input jacks, you could access your own music and media easier.
Ford also added a new set of convenient five-way control buttons on the steering wheel. It also featured voice commands, and provided access to much of what the first generation gave buyers, but expanded to provide Wi-Fi capability and internet access within the vehicle. Updates were possible via download to a USB drive, which interfaced with Sync, depending on which Ford vehicle you have.
Sync 3 saw the updated QNX software, as well as upgraded touchscreens. New capacitive touch technology means faster response when you can tap, swipe, or pinch the screen. Ford claims it is easier to see exactly what you are looking for in the navigation system (if included). There is also enhanced voice recognition in addition to the controls on the steering wheel to make for a safer drive.
Sync 4 will likely continue the expansion of the Sync capability on even larger screens. The system in the current all-electric Mustang Mach-E, new F-150, and new Bronco, will be run on a variety of new screen options, from the eight-inch to the very large 15.5-inch screen. Ford is following Tesla’s lead by making the screen in both vertical portrait mode as well as horizontal landscape layout.
It also, like the Tesla system, will have voice recognition, cloud-based connectivity, and over-the-air update capabilities, meaning the days of downloading a Sync update to a USB drive are over.
What Problems Does Sync Have?
Early version of Sync and MyFord Touch literally displayed the stereotypical Microsoft “blue screen of death”. You have likely experienced it on a personal computer, it is where the device displays a blue error screen following a fatal system error. It typically indicates a system crash, and a reboot is almost always needed.
Obviously, this is worrisome in a vehicle, especially while on the move. Buyers often complained that MyFord Touch was unreliable, didn’t respond to commands, and suffered from connectivity issues. Specifically, when integrating with common mobile devices, such as the Apple iPhone.
Related, some owners have reported Bluetooth connectivity problems between the Sync system and their phone. This has become a particular issue due to hands-free cell phone laws that require a certain level of connectivity in order to use a device while on the move. This can be fixed in a couple of ways, including the ubiquitous tech support fix of “turn it off and turn it back on.”
Literally turn the vehicle off, open the door (to fully turn off the system), wait 30 seconds, and try again. Otherwise, there are several Ford tech support websites and third-party assistances that delve deeper into the menus and sub-menus of Sync to help you fix your issue. There are a variety of fixes, including resetting the connection in Sync, resetting your phone, unpairing and re-pairing your phone, and a master Sync reset if it comes to that.
Additionally, if you have the Sync 3 system, take a look at your specific Sync version, which can be accessed inside the sub-menus. The ability to reconnect a Bluetooth device automatically was updated for version in 3.8. Ford also added connectivity to Siri EyesFree from Apple.
There are a handful of recalls for the Sync system, including one for 2016 to 2019 model year Fords – SSM 48053 – and 2016 to 2019 various other Ford vehicles equipped with Sync 3. So, always check for open recalls on any used vehicle you are considering.
In general, Ford’s Sync has evolved into a much more reliable system. Issues with Bluetooth pairing are common across other infotainment systems, so ensure that your software is up to date (if applicable) and always thoroughly read through the user guide.
Photos: Ford
