NHTSA ID Number: 10198605
Manufacturer Communication Number: TSB 21-2175
Summary
Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang
, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns.
This bulletin supersedes 20-2255. Reason for update: Replace Awareness/Interim Message
Model:
2016-2018 C-MAX Hybrid
2018-2019 EcoSport
2016-2018 Edge
2016-2019 Escape
2016-2019 Expedition
2017-2019 Explorer
2016-2018 F-150
2016-2019 F-Super Duty
2016-2018 Fiesta
2016-2019 Flex
2016-2018 Focus
2017-2018 Fusion
2016-2018 Mustang![]()
2016-2019 Taurus
2016-2019 Transit
2016-2018 Transit Connect
2017-2018 Continental
2016-2019 MKC
2016 MKS
2016-2019 MKT
2016-2018 MKX
2017-2018 MKZ
2016-2017 Navigator
Summary
This article supersedes TSB 20-2255 to update the TSB Service Procedure.
Issue: Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang
, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to:
- Display operation concerns
- Navigation inoperative
- Voice recognition concerns
- Phone connection issues
- Dropped phone connections
- Applink related performance
- Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic
- Slow system response
This may be due to the SYNC software. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software.
NOTE: Ford
has found some of the APIMs replaced and returned for inspection contained an outdated software level and the APIM did not require replacement. The customer concern may have been resolved by updating the APIM with latest level of software. The SYNC 3 universal thumb drive will be able to update the APIM software without the use of a scan tool and does not require the process to be monitored. Ford
will be monitoring APIM replacements to confirm TSB directed software updates have been performed.
Action: Follow the Service Procedure to correct the condition on vehicles that meet all the following criteria:
- One of the following vehicles:
- 2016 MKS
- 2016-2017 Navigator
- 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang

- 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty
- 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ
- 2017-2019 Explorer
- 2018-2019 EcoSport
- Customer complaint of one or more of the following symptoms:
- Display operation concerns
- Navigation inoperative
- Voice recognition concerns
- Phone connection issues
- Dropped phone connections
- Applink related performance
- Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic
- Slow system response
Service Procedure
1. Verify that the SYNC 3 universal thumb drive is titled SG3v202102 or later (later software levels will have a higher numerical value). Is the SYNC 3 universal thumb drive title SG3v202102 or later?
(1). Yes – proceed to Step 2.
(2). No – download the SYNC 3 Universal USB Updater Application under the Service Tips section of Professional Technician System (PTS). Review the instructions and use Scan for Updates and Update USB. Proceed to Step 2.
- NOTE: If needed, this is a one time upload to the thumb drive. Downloading the files to laptop and updating the thumb drive could take up to 2 1/2 hours depending on internet speed. Once the thumb drive is updated, it can be used repeatedly to update all vehicles in this article.
2. Disconnect all customer connected universal serial bus (USB) items from all media hub locations in the vehicle.
3. Start the vehicle.
4. Insert the SYNC 3 universal thumb drive into the USB port on the media hub.
5. The module automatically updates with no user input required.
(1). Modules already at the latest software level will indicate this after approximately 30 seconds.
(2). Module programming for a non-updated module does not need to be monitored and can take approximately 20-30 minutes.
(3). Once the reprograming has completed, the screen will display a message indicating the module is up to date.
6. Remove the SYNC 3 universal thumb drive when complete. The screen returns to the SYNC 3 home screen. Reconnect any of the customer USB items. No vehicle or system restarts are required.
89 Affected Products
Vehicles
| MAKE | MODEL | YEAR |
| FORD | E-150 | 2017 |
| FORD | ECOSPORT | 2018-2019 |
| FORD | EDGE | 2016-2018 |
| FORD | ESCAPE | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | EXPEDITION | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | EXPLORER | 2017-2019 |
| FORD | EXPLORER POLICE INTERCEPT | 2017-2019 |
| FORD | F-150 | 2016-2018 |
| FORD | F-250 SD | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | F-350 SD | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | F-450 SD | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | F-550 SD | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | FIESTA | 2016-2018 |
| FORD | FLEX | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | FOCUS | 2016-2018 |
| FORD | FUSION | 2017-2018 |
| FORD | FUSION ENERGI | 2017-2018 |
| FORD | FUSION HYBRID | 2017-2018 |
| FORD | MUSTANG | 2016-2018 |
| FORD | POLICE INTERCEPTOR SEDAN | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | TAURUS | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | TRANSIT | 2016-2019 |
| FORD | TRANSIT CONNECT | 2016-2018 |
| LINCOLN | CONTINENTAL | 2017-2018 |
| LINCOLN | MKC | 2016 |
| LINCOLN | MKS | 2016 |
| LINCOLN | MKT | 2016-2018 |
| LINCOLN | MKX | 2016-2018 |
| LINCOLN | MKZ | 2017-2018 |
| LINCOLN | MKZ HYBRID | 2017-2018 |
| LINCOLN | NAVIGATOR | 2016-2017 |
1 Associated Document
Manufacturer Communications
21-2175
01 June 2021
NHTSA ID Number: 10179117
Manufacturer Communication Number: TSB 20-2255
Summary
Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/ Transit Connect/Mustang
, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure.
1 Associated Document
Manufacturer Communications
20-2255
05 August 2020
MC-10179117-0001.pdf 208.128KB
- Latest A15 Navigation SD Card: 2026 latest navigation sd card for database version A15 map library coverage for the United States and Canada. A15 navigation SD card updates A14, A13, A12, A11, A10, A9, A8, A7, A6, A5, A4, etc Map databases. Get directions to wherever you travel with this map update that identifies roads, subdivisions, business and points of interest.Perfect navigation accessories for Ford
/Lincoln
vehicles. - Reliable GPS Navigation: This Lincoln
/Ford
navigation SD card stores maps directly onboard, providing uninterrupted turn-by-turn directions even in remote areas. Drive confidently through unfamiliar or recently changed areas and arrive at your destination quickly and efficiently. - Easy to Install: Turn off engine for 10–20 mins, remove old card, insert new Ford
Navigation SD Card (label up), then restart engine. System updates maps automatically in about 10–20 mins. No extra tools or programming needed. Your car will be permanently locked after the first installation. Do not insert the A15 navigation SD card into non-vehicle devices, as this may damage the map data. - Compatible with Ford
Accessories: Ideal navigation accessories to keep your Ford
system up to date. Edge 2011-2015, Expedition XT 2015, Expedition 2015, Explorer 2011-2016, Escape/Escape Hybrid 2013-2015, Taurus 2013-2015, Transit 2014-2015, Transit Connect 2014-2016, F-150 2013-2015, Flex 2013-2015, Fiesta 2014-2015, Focus 2012-2015, Fusion 2013-2016, Mustang
2015, C-Max 2013-2015, Super Duty F250/F350/F450 2013-2016. - Compatible with Lincoln
Accessories: MKZ 2013-2016, MKX 2011-2016, MKC 2015, MKS 2013-2015, MKT 2013-15, NAVIGATOR 2015. Note, please refer to the system version description in the attached picture to confirm that your car with Sync2 systems that use the embedded SD card.
- 【LATEST A15 NAVIGATION SD CARD UPDATE】Stay ahead with the newest 2026 A15 navigation SD card that updates all previous versions including A14 and earlier, providing the most comprehensive map coverage for the entire United States and Canada with millions of updated points of interest such as gas stations, hotels, restaurants and newly added highways, ensuring reliable guidance for both city driving and cross-country adventures.
- 【WIDE COMPATIBILITY WITH FORD
MODELS】This navigation SD card part number GM5T-19H449-AJ is designed to fit Ford
vehicles including F-150 2013-2015, Explorer 2011-2016, Fusion 2013-2016, Expedition 2015, Escape 2013-2015, Edge 2011-2015, Focus 2012-2015, C-MAX 2013-2015, Escape Hybrid 2013-2015, Expedition XT 2015, Fiesta 2014-2015, Flex 2013-2015, Mustang
2015, Super Duty F-250/F-350/F-450 2013-2016, Taurus 2013-2015, Transit 2013-2015, Transit Connect 2014-2016. - 【WIDE COMPATIBILITY WITH LINCOLN
MODELS】 This navigation SD card compatible with Lincoln
Accessories Fits Lincoln
MKZ (2013 - 2016), MKX (2011 - 2016), MKC (2015), MKS (2013 - 2015), MKT (2013 - 2015), NAVIGATOR (2015). Reliable Lincoln
navigation accessories that update your vehicle’s SYNC 2 system for accurate routing across USA & Canada. - 【EASY PLUG AND PLAY INSTALLATION】You need to check if the CCPU of Ford
/Lincoln
SYNC system is compatible or needs to be updated first, check the product image corresponding to the CCPU version. To install: 1. Turn engine OFF 20+ mins. 2. Locate the SD card slot and remove the old navigation card. 3. Insert the new Navigation SD Card untll it clicks. 4.Start the engine to ensure, the “Navigation” icon should appear in the top-right corner (Auto-updates in 10-20 mins Never interrupt the process!). - 【RELIABLE OFFLINE GPS NAVIGATION】Unlike smartphone navigation apps that depend on cellular data signals this Lincoln
/Ford
navigation SD card stores all map data directly on the card providing uninterrupted turn-by-turn directions even in remote areas mountains or deserts with no internet connection, perfect for long road trips across the United States and Canada with no data usage no signal issues and no roaming charges ensuring you always find your way regardless of your location.
- Note: Navigation sd card for database version A15 map library coverage for the United States and Canada. Note, please refer to the system version description in the attached picture to confirm that your car with Sync2 systems that use the embedded SD card
- Suitable Vehicles: The GPS navigation SD card is OEM GM5T-19H449-AJ, compatible with Ford
2013-2015 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, compatible with Lincoln
2013-2015 MKS, and more. Please refer to the details page for more specific information on the fit models - Clear Navigation: Our truck gps navigation SD card encompassing detailed map data and comprehensive road information, has undergone recent updates to incorporate the most current map database, enables you to arrive at your destination swiftly
- Easy to Install: Simply turn off the vehicle power, identify the SD card slot, typically positioned in the central console or concealed behind a dashboard access panel, eject the existing SD card and insert the new SD card until you hear the slot clic
- Usage Guidelines: When the latest version navigation SD card fault message is displayed, firstly eject the SD card and inspect it for breakage, if not perform a system factory reset or master reset according to the instructions in the detailed description
- LATEST DATA: A15 navigation SD card updates A14, A13, A12, A11, A10, A9, A8, A7, A6, A5, A4, etc Map databases. This map update covers hundreds of cities, counties and metropolitan areas in all 50 U.S. states and Canada. Latest 2025 version navigation accessories fits for Ford
/Lincoln
. - COMPATIBLE WITH FORD
MODELS: Fits for Ford
(F-150 2013 - 2015), (EXPLORER 2011 - 2016), (FUSION 2013 - 2016), (EXPEDITION 2015), (ESCAPE 2013 - 2015), (EDGE 2011 - 2015), (FOCUS 2012 - 2015), (C-MAX 2013 - 2015), (ESCAPE HYBRID 2013 - 2015), (EXPEDITION XT 2015), (FIESTA 2014 - 2015), (FLEX 2013 - 2015), (MUSTANG
2015), (SUPER DUTY (F-250 / F-350 / F-450) 2013 - 2016), (TAURUS 2013 - 2015), (TRANSIT 2013 - 2015), (TRANSIT CONNECT 2014 - 2016). - COMPATIBLE WITH LINCOLN
MODELS: Fits for LINCOLN
(MKZ 2013 - 2016), (MKX 2011 - 2016), (MKC 2015), (MKS 2013 - 2015), (MKT 2013 - 2015), (NAVIGATOR 2015). - INSTALLATION INSTRUCTION: You need to check if the CCPU of Ford
/Lincoln
SYNC system is compatible or needs to be updated first, check the product image corresponding to the CCPU version. To install: 1. Turn vehicle off 2. Locate the SD card slot 3. Remove the old SD Card 4. Insert the new Navigatilon SD Card into the SD card slot untll it clicks 5. Start the engine to ensure the new Navigation SD Card is functioning. The word "Navigation" should appear in the upper right hand corner. - BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: Press Navigation to access navigation functions. lf “Insert Nav SD Card" appears, this means the system doesn't recognize that the new card was inserted. Ensure the card is inserted all the way until it clicks. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your Navigation SD Card, we offer 24-hour, 100% satisfaction customer support services.
Last update on 2026-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SEOCONTENT-START
Warranty Status: Eligible under provisions of New Vehicle Limited Warranty (NVLW)/Service Part Warranty (SPW)/Special Service Part (SSP)/Extended Service Plan (ESP) coverage. Limits/policies/prior approvals are not altered by a TSB. NVLW/SPW/SSP/ESP coverage limits are determined by the identified causal part and verified using the OASIS part coverage tool. Labor Times Description Operation No. Time Reprogram The APIM Following The Service Procedure (Do Not Use With Any Other Labor Operations) 212175A 0.3 Hrs. Repair/Claim Coding Causal Part: 14G371 Condition Code: 04
**************************************************************************************************************
SEOCONTENT-END
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.






