Application Performance Upgrade 15A03 – SYNC 3 Software Updates – 2016 Ford & Lincoln

NHTSA ID Number: 10204990

Manufacturer Communication Number: CSC15A03

Summary

Demonstration/Delivery Hold – Application Performance Upgrade 15A03 Certain 2016 Model Year Escape, MKC, Exkpedition, and Navigator Vehicles Sync 3 Software Updates

 

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ROGRAM TERMS  

This program will be in effect through April 29, 2016.  There is no mileage limit for this program.

 

AFFECTED VEHICLES

Vehicle	Model Year	Assembly Plant	Build Dates
Escape	2016	Louisville	May 27, 2015 through July 29, 2015
MKC	2016	Louisville	May 26, 2015 through July 27, 2015
Expedition	2016	Kentucky Truck	July 20, 2015 through July 23, 2015
Navigator	2016	Kentucky Truck	July 20, 2015 through July 23, 2015

 

REASON FOR THIS PROGRAM

In affected Escape and MKC vehicles, software concerns in the SYNC 3 touch screen interface may cause the touch screen to exhibit one or more of the following conditions:

• The touch screen may become slow to respond or unresponsive to touch input.
• The touch screen may react to false touch events with no user interaction.

Additionally, affected Expedition and Navigator vehicles may have been loaded with an incorrect version of the SYNC 3 operating system, which can cause one or more of the following conditions:

• Navigation routes and other settings may not be maintained after cycling the ignition key off, then back on.
• The touch screen may not display any graphics.
• The voice/push-to-talk button may become unresponsive.
• The system may become sluggish.
• The touch screen may become slow to respond or unresponsive to touch input.

 

SERVICE ACTION

Sold vehicles:  Owners of all affected vehicles will be mailed a USB drive and instructions to install the SYNC 3 updates themselves.  Although OASIS may indicate 15A03 is open, the application may have already been installed by the owner.  Please confirm with the owner if they have installed the application before attempting to service their vehicle.  Sold vehicles should only be serviced if the owner has not already completed the update, and requests that their dealer perform the repair under this program.

This service must be performed on all affected vehicles at no charge to the vehicle owner.

New/In-Stock vehicles:  Before demonstrating or delivering any of the vehicles involved in this program, dealers are to update the SYNC 3 software on all affected vehicles using a USB drive.

 

OWNER NOTIFICATION MAILING SCHEDULE

Owners of all affected vehicles will be mailed a USB drive along with instructions to install SYNC 3 updates the week of November 30, 2015.  Dealers should repair any affected vehicles that arrive at their dealerships, whether or not the customer has received a letter.

 

STOCK VEHICLES

Correct all affected units in your new vehicle inventory before delivery.

 

SOLD VEHICLES

• Owners of affected vehicles will be mailed a USB drive that is pre-loaded with software along with instructions to update the SYNC 3 system themselves.
• Owners will also be given the option to have dealers perform the repair.

 

TITLE BRANDED / SALVAGED VEHICLES

Affected title branded and salvaged vehicles are eligible for this service action.

 

OWNER REFUNDS    

Refunds are not approved for this program.

 

RENTAL VEHICLES

The use of rental vehicles is not approved for this program.

 

LINCOLN CLIENT SPECIAL HANDLING

To ensure the best possible experience for Lincoln owners, Lincoln Dealers are encouraged to utilize the Lincoln Loyalty Program to provide clients with surprise and delight offerings, including:

• Fuel fill
• Transportation assistance
• Courtesy pick-up and delivery of client vehicles

The Lincoln Loyalty Program is exclusive to Lincoln Dealers.  Owners will not be notified of this service in owner mailings.  Reference EFC03578, Lincoln Loyalty Program Announcement for additional details.

 

PARTS REQUIREMENTS / ORDERING INFORMATION

Parts are not required to complete this repair.

 

Instructions for Updating a USB Drive with the Correct Software

Minimum 2 gigabyte (GB) USB drive required.  This procedure will clear any saved data stored on the USB flash drive.  Save any important data stored on the USB drive to another location prior to starting this procedure.

1. Format the USB Drive.
   1. Insert USB Flash drive into computer.
   2. From Windows start button or desktop, select my computer.
   3. Right click on the USB drive/temporary disk.
   4. Select “Format”.
   5. Under File System, select “FAT32”.
   6. Under Allocation Unit Size, select Default allocation size.
   7. Under Format Options, select “Quick Format”.
   8. Select “start” to reformat.
   9. Select “OK”, for pop up warning, “Reformatting will erase all data stored on this disk.”
   10. Close all open pop-up windows once complete.
   11. Tag the USB Drive to identify the new software level it will contain.
2. Download the software. A hard wired internet connection is recommended.
   1. Determine the appropriate software to be downloaded.
      1. Click here for Touch Screen Software Updates for Escape and MKC vehicles.
      2. Click here for Operating System Software Updates for Expedition and Navigator vehicles.
   2. A download pop-up window will appear with selections “Run, Save, or Cancel”. Select “Save”.
   3. A “Save-As” pop up window will appear. Choose a folder on your computer to save the file temporarily.
   4. Select “Save”.
   5. When the “Download Complete” pop up window appears, select “Open folder”.
   6. The file will be highlighted. Double click on the file.
   7. A download warning may appear. If so, agree to continue by choosing “Yes”, “OK”, or “Run”.
   8. An extract pop up window will appear. The extract destination to the USB drive will need to be selected.
      1. To browse for the USB drive, select the button with three dots located to the right of the pop up window.
      2. Scroll down and select “Computer”
      3. Select the USB drive/removable disk and click “OK”.
   9. Select Extract.
   10. Confirm USB drive contents. Select USB drive located under “My Computer”.  A folder named “SyncMyRide” and two files (autoinstall.lst and DONTINDX.msa) will be present on the USB drive; it is now ready for the USB upgrade procedure located in Attachment IV.

 

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CERTAIN 2016 MODEL YEAR ESCAPE AND MKC VEHICLES — SYNC 3 TOUCH SCREEN SOFTWARE UPDATE               

 

OVERVIEW

Affected vehicles may have software concerns in the SYNC 3 touch screen interface which can cause the touch screen to exhibit several undesirable conditions.  Before demonstrating or delivering any of the Escape and MKC vehicles involved in this program, dealers are to update the touch screen using a USB drive.

 

SYNC Touch Screen Software Update

NOTE:  Although OASIS may indicate 15A03 is open, the software update may have already been installed by the owner.  Please confirm with the owner if they have installed the software update before attempting to service their vehicle.

NOTE:  Some vehicles may prompt the user to receive SYNC Automatic System Updates. Select “Ask Me Later” and proceed with the software update procedure.

NOTE:  The installation procedure takes less than five minutes.  Do not remove the USB drive or turn the vehicle off until the “Installation Complete” screen appears.

1. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for 30 seconds.
2. Remove any connected devices from the vehicle USB port(s).
3. Install the USB drive containing the new installation procedure will start automatically.  See Figure 1.

FIGURE 1

 

NOTE:  It is normal for the system to reboot and/or for the screen to go dark/blank at times.  The USB drive must remain installed during this time, and should not be removed until the “Installation Complete” screen appears.

NOTE:  After updating the touch screen software, the touch screen may not respond to touch until the system is allowed to fully power down and reset.

4. After the “Installation Complete” screen appears remove the USB drive, turn the vehicle off and remove the key.  See Figure 2

FIGURE 2

 

5. Open and close the driver’s front door and wait approximately four minutes for the system to completely power down.
6. After four minutes, start the vehicle and verify that the SYNC 3 system operates properly.

 

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SYNC 3 OPERATING SYSTEM SOFTWARE UPDATES

 

OVERVIEW

Affected vehicles may have been loaded with an incorrect version of the SYNC 3 operating system.  Before demonstrating or delivering any of the Expedition and Navigator vehicles involved in this program, dealers are to update the operating system using a USB drive.

 

SYNC Operating System Update

NOTE:  Although OASIS may indicate 15A03 is open, the software update may have already been installed by the owner.  Please confirm with the owner if they have installed the software before attempting to service their vehicle.

NOTE:  Some vehicles may prompt the user to receive SYNC Automatic System Updates. Select “Ask Me Later” and proceed with the update procedure.

NOTE:  The installation procedure takes less than five minutes.  Do not remove the USB drive or turn the vehicle off until the “Installation Complete” screen appears.

1. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for 30 seconds.
2. If the vehicle is not note the current SYNC “Automatic System Update” settings.  This setting will need to be restored after the software update has completed.  See Figure 1.
   1. Press the Gear/Settings icon.
   2. Select “General” then scroll to the bottom of screen.
   3. Select “Automatic System Updates.”
   4. Note if the setting is “On” or “Off.”

FIGURE 1

 

3. Remove any connected devices from the vehicle USB port(s).
4. Install the USB drive containing the new SYNC operating system update (refer to Attachment III). The installation procedure will start and finish automatically.  See Figure 2.

FIGURE 2

 

NOTE:  It is normal for the system to reboot and/or for the screen to go dark/blank at times.  The USB drive must remain installed during this time, and should not be removed until the “Installation Complete” screen appears.

5. After the “Installation Complete” screen appears, remove the USB drive, turn the vehicle off and remove the key.  See Figure 3.

FIGURE 3

 

6. Open and close the driver’s front door and wait approximately four minutes for the system to completely power down.
7. After four minutes, start the vehicle and verify that the SYNC 3 system operates properly.
8. Restore the “Automatic System Update” settings.  Refer to Step 2, on Page 1.

 

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November 2015

 

Application Performance Upgrade 15A03
Programa de satisfacción del cliente 15A03

 

Mr. John Sample
123 Main Street
Anywhere, USA 12345

 

Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):  12345678901234567

At Ford Motor Company, we are committed not only to building high quality, dependable products, but also to building a community of happy, satisfied customers. To demonstrate that commitment, we are providing a no-charge Application Performance Upgrade for your vehicle with the VIN shown above.

Why are you receiving this notice?	On your vehicle, software concerns in the SYNC 3 touch screen interface may cause the touch screen to exhibit one or both of the following conditions: The touch screen may become slow to respond or unresponsive to touch input. The touch screen may react to false touch events with no user interaction.
What will Ford and your dealer do?	In the interest of customer satisfaction, Ford Motor Company is providing you with a pre-programmed USB drive and instructions to install the touch screen software update yourself. Alternatively, if you prefer to have this service performed by a dealer, Ford Motor Company has also authorized your dealer to install the touch screen update free of charge under the terms of this program. This Application Upgrade Program will be in effect until April 29, 2016 regardless of mileage.  Coverage is automatically transferred to subsequent owners.
How long will it take?	The time needed for you to install the update using the enclosed USB drive is less than 10 minutes. If you choose to have your dealer perform the update, your dealer may need your vehicle for a longer period of time due to service scheduling requirements.
What should you do?	Follow the enclosed instructions and use the USB drive to install the touch screen update. Alternatively, you may call your dealer and request a service date for Application Performance Upgrade 15A03.  Provide the dealer with the VIN of your vehicle, which is printed near your name at the beginning of this letter. If you do not already have a servicing dealer, you can access www.Fordowner.com for dealer addresses, maps, and driving instructions.   Ford Motor Company wants you to have this service action completed on your vehicle.  The vehicle owner is responsible for making arrangements to have the work completed.
What if you no longer own this vehicle?	If you no longer own this vehicle, and have an address for the current owner, please forward this letter to the new owner. You received this notice because our records, which are based primarily on state registration and title data, indicate that you are the current owner.
Can we assist you further?	If you have difficulties getting your vehicle repaired promptly and without charge, please contact your dealership’s Service Manager for assistance. RETAIL OWNERS:  If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Ford Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332 and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.  If you wish to contact us through the Internet, our address is:  www.Fordowner.com. For the hearing impaired call 1-800-232-5952 (TDD).  Representatives are available Monday through Friday:  8:00AM – 8:00PM (Eastern Time). Si necesita ayuda o tiene alguna pregunta, por favor  llame al Centro de Relación con Clientes al 1-866-436-7332 y presione 2 para Español. FLEET OWNERS:  If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Fleet Customer Information Center at 1-800-34-FLEET, choose Option #3, and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.  If you wish to contact us through the Internet, our address is:  www.fleet.ford.com. Representatives are available Monday through Friday:  8:00AM – 8:00PM (Eastern Time).

 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Ford Customer Service Division

 

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SYNC 3 Touch Screen Software Update

NEED HELP? If at any point you encounter difficulty during the software update process, please contact your dealer for additional assistance.

1. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for 30 seconds. The engine will continue to idle until step 4.
2. Remove any connected devices from the vehicle USB port(s).
3. Install the USB drive containing the new touch screen software update. The installation procedure will start automatically and “Updating System Software…” will appear on the screen. See Figure 1.

Figure 1

 

NOTE: The installation procedure takes less than five minutes, and it is normal for the system to reboot and/or for the screen to go dark/blank at times. Do not remove the USB drive or turn the vehicle off until the “Installation Complete” screen appears.

NOTE: After updating the software, the touch screen may not respond to touch until the system is allowed to fully power down and reset.

4. After the “Installation Complete” screen appears, remove the USB drive, turn the vehicle off, and remove the key. See Figure 2 on the next page.

Figure 2

 

5. Open and close the driver’s front door and wait approximately four minutes for the system to completely power down.
6. After four minutes, start the vehicle. Verify the touch screen operates properly.

 

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November 2015

 

Application Performance Upgrade 15A03
Programa de satisfacción del cliente 15A03

 

Mr. John Sample
123 Main Street
Anywhere, USA 12345

 

Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):  12345678901234567

 

At Ford Motor Company, we are committed not only to building high quality, dependable products, but also to building a community of happy, satisfied customers. To demonstrate that commitment, we are providing a no-charge Application Performance Upgrade for your vehicle with the VIN shown above.

Why are you receiving this  notice?	Your vehicle may have been loaded with an incorrect version of the SYNC 3 operating system, which can cause one or more of the following conditions: Navigation routes and other settings may not be maintained after cycling the ignition key off, then back on. The touch screen may not display any graphics. The voice/push-to-talk button may become unresponsive. The system may become sluggish. The touch screen may become slow to respond or unresponsive to touch input.
What will Ford and your dealer do?	In the interest of customer satisfaction, Ford Motor Company is providing you with a pre-programmed USB drive and instructions to install the operating system update yourself. Alternatively, if you prefer to have this service performed by a dealer, Ford Motor Company has also authorized your dealer to install the operating system update free of charge under the terms of this program. This Application Upgrade Program will be in effect until April 29, 2016 regardless of mileage.  Coverage is automatically transferred to subsequent owners.
How long will it take?	The time needed for you to install the update using the enclosed USB drive is less than 15 minutes. If you choose to have your dealer perform the update, your dealer may need your vehicle for a longer period of time due to service scheduling requirements.
What should you do?	Follow the enclosed instructions and use the USB drive to install the required update. Alternatively, you may call your dealer and request a service date for Application Performance Upgrade 15A03.  Provide the dealer with the VIN of your vehicle.  The VIN is printed near your name at the beginning of this letter. If you do not already have a servicing dealer, you can access www.Fordowner.com for dealer addresses, maps, and driving instructions. Ford Motor Company wants you to have this service action completed on your vehicle.  The vehicle owner is responsible for making arrangements to have the work completed.
What if you no longer own this vehicle?	If you no longer own this vehicle, and have an address for the current owner, please forward this letter to the new owner. You received this notice because our records, which are based primarily on state registration and title data, indicate that you are the current owner.
Can we assist you further?	If you have difficulties getting your vehicle repaired promptly and without charge, please contact your dealership’s Service Manager for assistance. RETAIL OWNERS:  If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Ford Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332 and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.  If you wish to contact us through the Internet, our address is:  www.Fordowner.com. For the hearing impaired call 1-800-232-5952 (TDD).  Representatives are available Monday through Friday:  8:00AM – 8:00PM (Eastern Time). Si necesita ayuda o tiene alguna pregunta, por favor  llame al Centro de Relación con Clientes al 1-866-436-7332 y presione 2 para Español. FLEET OWNERS:  If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Fleet Customer Information Center at 1-800-34-FLEET, choose Option #3, and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.  If you wish to contact us through the Internet, our address is:  www.fleet.ford.com. Representatives are available Monday through Friday:  8:00AM – 8:00PM(Eastern Time).

 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Ford Customer Service Division

 

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SYNC 3 Operating System Software Update

NEED HELP? If at any point you encounter difficulty during the software update process, please contact your dealer for additional assistance.

NOTE: Your vehicle’s SYNC3 system is capable of automatic updates over Wi-Fi. After reprogramming the operating system using the procedure below, the “Automatic System Updates” setting will default to “Off.”

WHAT IS AN AUTOMATIC SYSTEM UPDATE? When Wi-Fi and automatic updates are enabled, your system checks for software updates periodically. If a new version is available, it downloads at that time. Software downloads can take place for up to 30 minutes after you have switched your vehicle off. The updates do not interrupt the normal use of your SYNC 3 system. If a download does not complete for any reason, the download continues where it left off at the next Wi-Fi connected opportunity. Upon activation of an update, a banner displays on the touchscreen indicating the system update.

 

Software update procedure:

1. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for 30 seconds. The engine will continue to idle until step 5.
2. To review the current “Automatic System Updates” setting so that it can be restored after programming has completed, refer to the instructions below. You may also modify this setting after programming has completed if your preferences have changed.
   1. Press the Gear/Settings icon (lower right corner of the screen).
   2. Select “General” then scroll to the bottom of screen.
   3. Select “Automatic System Updates.”
   4. Take note if your setting is “On” or “Off.” See Figure 1.

Figure 1

 

3. Remove any connected devices from the vehicle USB port(s).
4. Install the USB drive containing the SYNC operating system update. The installation procedure will start automatically and “Updating System Software…” will appear on the screen. See Figure 2 on the next page.

Figure 2

 

NOTE: The installation procedure takes less than five minutes, and it is normal for the system to reboot and/or for the screen to go dark/blank at times. Do not remove the USB drive or turn the vehicle off until the “Installation Complete” screen appears.

5. After the “Installation Complete” screen appears, remove the USB drive, turn the vehicle off and remove the key. See Figure 3.

Figure 3

 

6. Open and close the driver’s front door and wait approximately four minutes for the system to completely power down.
7. After four minutes, start the vehicle. Verify the SYNC 3 system operates properly.
8. Restore or modify the “Automatic System Update” settings. Refer to Step 2 on the previous page.

 

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November 2015

 

Customer Satisfaction Program 15A03
Programa de satisfacción del cliente 15A03

 

Mr. John Sample
123 Main Street
Anywhere, USA 12345

 

Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):  12345678901234567

 

At the Lincoln Motor Company, we are committed not only to building high quality, dependable products, but also to building a community of happy, satisfied customers. To demonstrate that commitment, we are providing a no-charge Application Performance Upgrade for your vehicle with the VIN shown above.

Why are you receiving this notice?	On your vehicle, software concerns in the SYNC 3 touch screen interface may cause the touch screen to exhibit one or both of the following conditions: The touch screen may become slow to respond or unresponsive to touch input. The touch screen may react to false touch events with no user interaction.
What will Lincoln and your dealer do?	In the interest of customer satisfaction, The Lincoln Motor Company is providing you with a pre-programmed USB drive and instructions to install the touch screen software update yourself. Alternatively, if you prefer to have this service performed by a dealer, The Lincoln Motor Company has also authorized your dealer to install the touch screen update free of charge under the terms of this program. This Application Upgrade Program will be in effect until April 29, 2016 regardless of mileage.  Coverage is automatically transferred to subsequent owners.
How long will it take?	The time needed for you to install the update using the enclosed USB drive is less than 10 minutes. If you choose to have your dealer perform the update, your dealer may need your vehicle for a longer period of time due to service scheduling requirements.
What should you do?	Follow the enclosed instructions and use the USB drive to install the touch screen update. Alternatively, you may call your dealer and request a service date for Application Performance Upgrade 15A03.  Provide the dealer with the VIN of your vehicle, which is printed near your name at the beginning of this letter. If you do not already have a servicing dealer, you can access www.Lincolnowner.com for dealer addresses, maps, and driving instructions.       The Lincoln Motor Company wants you to have this service action completed on your vehicle.  The vehicle owner is responsible for making arrangements to have the work completed.
What if you no longer own this vehicle?	If you no longer own this vehicle, and have an address for the current owner, please forward this letter to the new owner. You received this notice because our records, which are based primarily on state registration and title data, indicate that you are the current owner.
Can we assist you further?	If you have difficulties getting your vehicle repaired promptly and without charge, please contact your dealership’s Service Manager for assistance. RETAIL OWNERS:  If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332 and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.  If you wish to contact us through the Internet, our address is:   www.Lincolnowner.com. For the hearing impaired call 1-800-232-5952 (TDD).  Representatives are available Monday through Friday:  8:00AM – 8:00PM (Eastern Time). Si necesita ayuda o tiene alguna pregunta, por favor  llame al Centro de Relación con Clientes al 1-866-436-7332 y presione 2 para Español. FLEET OWNERS:  If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Fleet Customer Information Center at 1-800-34-FLEET, Option #3 and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.  Representatives are available Monday through Friday:  8:00AM – 8:00PM (Eastern Time).  If you wish to contact us through the Internet, our address is:  www.fleet.ford.com.

 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

The Lincoln Motor Company

 

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SYNC 3 Touch Screen Software Update

NEED HELP? If at any point you encounter difficulty during the software update process, please contact your dealer for additional assistance.

1. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for 30 seconds. The engine will continue to idle until step 4.
2. Remove any connected devices from the vehicle USB port(s).
3. Install the USB drive containing the new touch screen software update. The installation procedure will start automatically and “Updating System Software…” will appear on the screen. See Figure 1.

Figure 1

 

NOTE: The installation procedure takes less than five minutes, and it is normal for the system to reboot and/or for the screen to go dark/blank at times. Do not remove the USB drive or turn the vehicle off until the “Installation Complete” screen appears.

NOTE: After updating the software, the touch screen may not respond to touch until the system is allowed to fully power down and reset.

4. After the “Installation Complete” screen appears, remove the USB drive, turn the vehicle off, and remove the key. See Figure 2 on the next page.

Figure 2

 

5. Open and close the driver’s front door and wait approximately four minutes for the system to completely power down.
6. After four minutes, start the vehicle. Verify the touch screen operates properly.

 

---

November 2015

 

Customer Satisfaction Program 15A03
Programa de satisfacción del cliente 15A03

 

Mr. John Sample
123 Main Street
Anywhere, USA 12345

 

Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):  12345678901234567

At the Lincoln Motor Company, we are committed not only to building high quality, dependable products, but also to building a community of happy, satisfied customers. To demonstrate that commitment, we are providing a no-charge Application Performance Upgrade for your vehicle with the VIN shown above.

Why are you receiving this  notice?	Your vehicle may have been loaded with an incorrect version of the SYNC 3 operating system, which can cause one or more of the following conditions: Navigation routes and other settings may not be maintained after cycling the ignition key off, then back on. The touch screen may not display any graphics. The voice/push-to-talk button may become unresponsive. The system may become sluggish. The touch screen may become slow to respond or unresponsive to touch input.
What will Lincoln and your dealer do?	In the interest of customer satisfaction, The Lincoln Motor Company is providing you with a pre-programmed USB drive and instructions to install the operating system update yourself. Alternatively, The Lincoln Motor Company has also authorized your dealer to install the required update free of charge under the terms of this program. This Application Upgrade Program will be in effect until April 29, 2016 regardless of mileage.  Coverage is automatically transferred to subsequent owners.
How long will it take?	The time needed for you to install the update using the enclosed USB drive is less than 15 minutes. If you choose to have your dealer perform the update, your dealer may need your vehicle for a longer period of time due to service scheduling requirements.
What should you do?	Follow the enclosed instructions and use the USB drive to install the operating system update. Alternatively, you may call your dealer and request a service date for Application Performance Upgrade 15A03.  Provide the dealer with the VIN of your vehicle.  The VIN is printed near your name at the beginning of this letter. If you do not already have a servicing dealer, you can access www.Lincolnowner.com for dealer addresses, maps, and driving instructions.       The Lincoln Motor Company wants you to have this service action completed on your vehicle.  The vehicle owner is responsible for making arrangements to have the work completed.
What if you no longer own this vehicle?	If you no longer own this vehicle, and have an address for the current owner, please forward this letter to the new owner. You received this notice because our records, which are based primarily on state registration and title data, indicate that you are the current owner.
Can we assist you further?	If you have difficulties getting your vehicle repaired promptly and without charge, please contact your dealership’s Service Manager for assistance. RETAIL OWNERS:  If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332 and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.  If you wish to contact us through the Internet, our address is:   www.Lincolnowner.com. For the hearing impaired call 1-800-232-5952 (TDD).  Representatives are available Monday through Friday:  8:00AM – 8:00PM (Eastern Time). Si necesita ayuda o tiene alguna pregunta, por favor  llame al Centro de Relación con Clientes al 1-866-436-7332 y presione 2 para Español. FLEET OWNERS:  If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Fleet Customer Information Center at 1-800-34-FLEET, Option #3 and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.  Representatives are available Monday through Friday:  8:00AM – 8:00PM (Eastern Time). If you wish to contact us through the Internet, our address is:  www.fleet.ford.com.

 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

The Lincoln Motor Company

 

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SYNC 3 Operating System Software Update

NEED HELP? If at any point you encounter difficulty during the software update process, please contact your dealer for additional assistance.

NOTE: Your vehicle’s SYNC3 system is capable of automatic updates over Wi-Fi. After reprogramming the operating system using the procedure below, the “Automatic System Updates” setting will default to “Off.”

WHAT IS AN AUTOMATIC SYSTEM UPDATE? When Wi-Fi and automatic updates are enabled, your system checks for software updates periodically. If a new version is available, it downloads at that time. Software downloads can take place for up to 30 minutes after you have switched your vehicle off. The updates do not interrupt the normal use of your SYNC 3 system. If a download does not complete for any reason, the download continues where it left off at the next Wi-Fi connected opportunity. Upon activation of an update, a banner displays on the touchscreen indicating the system update.

 

Software update procedure:

1.  Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for 30 seconds. The engine will continue to idle until step 5.
2. To review the current “Automatic System Updates” setting so that it can be restored after programming has completed, refer to the instructions below. You may also modify this setting after programming has completed if your preferences have changed.
   1. Press the Gear/Settings icon (lower right corner of the screen).
   2. Select “General” then scroll to the bottom of screen.
   3. Select “Automatic System Updates.”
   4. Take note if your setting is “On” or “Off.” See Figure 1.

Figure 1

 

3. Remove any connected devices from the vehicle USB port(s).
4. Install the USB drive containing the SYNC operating system update. The installation procedure will start automatically and “Updating System Software…” will appear on the screen. See Figure 2 on the next page.

Figure 2

 

NOTE: The installation procedure takes less than five minutes, and it is normal for the system to reboot and/or for the screen to go dark/blank at times. Do not remove the USB drive or turn the vehicle off until the “Installation Complete” screen appears.

5. After the “Installation Complete” screen appears, remove the USB drive, turn the vehicle off and remove the key. See Figure 3.

Figure 3

 

6. Open and close the driver’s front door and wait approximately four minutes for the system to completely power down.
7. After four minutes, start the vehicle. Verify the SYNC 3 system operates properly.
8. Restore or modify the “Automatic System Update” settings. Refer to Step 2 on the previous page.

 

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4 Affected Products

Vehicles

MAKE	MODEL	YEAR
FORD	ESCAPE	2016
FORD	EXPEDITION	2016
LINCOLN	MKC	2016
LINCOLN	NAVIGATOR	2016

 

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1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

Application Performance Upgrade 15A03
October 28, 2015

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10204990

MC-10204990-9999.pdf 535.679KB

 

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Ford SYNC Updates

 

Last update on 2026-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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