Sync 3 APIM Programming for FORScan

Updated: April 2024

PayPal, Credit/Debit Card, Apple Pay, and Google Pay Accepted During Checkout

Customer Prerequisite Requirements for Programming:

• Applicable Vehicle
  • See Vehicle Model Drop Down List for Supported Vehicles and Model Years
  • Note: When filling out the order form, please enter the information for your vehicle, that the Sync 3 unit is going to be installed in, NOT the information of the salvaged vehicle it was sourced from (if applicable).
  • The 17 Digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is REQUIRED on all orders to ensure correct programming is provided, based on specific vehicle equipment and options.
  • Ensure correct Original Sync System Type is selected otherwise order will be cancelled.
• Sync 3 Installation Hardware and Associated Parts
  • This order is for programming only (Sync 3 Hardware NOT Included).
    • If you need to purchase hardware for your Sync 3 Installation, check out our friends at: SimplyMichigan
      • Use coupon code SYNC3PROGRAMMING during checkout for 6% off your hardware purchase.
  • Client must purchase all necessary installation hardware needed for vehicle from a third party.
  • Client is responsible for any and all wiring modifications, if required.
  • Do NOT, under any circumstances, connect a Sync 3 Unit to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (FordPass App) before it is programmed to your vehicle. Doing so can overwrite your original programming with all the incorrect information contained in the Sync 3 unit you connected, before it was programmed properly.
• FORScan Installed on Windows (7, 8.1, 10, or 11) based Laptop PC with Extended License
  • Download Link
  • Extended License Generator
• Any Compatible OBD Programmer to Write Sync 3 APIM Programming File with FORScan
  • Examples:
    
    • Bluetooth: ScanTool OBDLink MX+
      • Use Bluetooth Communication Mode in FORScan Settings
      • Amazon Purchase Link
    • USB: ScanTool OBDLink EX (RECOMMENDED)
      • Use FTDI Communication Mode in FORScan Settings
      • Amazon Purchase Link
    • USB: Bosch VCMM R9823 (Ford Official Dealership Programmer)
      • Use J2534 Communication Mode in FORScan Settings
      • Very Expensive - Not recommended for one-time or non-daily use
    • USB: Generic J2534-2 Programmer OR ELM327 Programmer with HS-CAN/MS-CAN Switch
    • Other: Any OBD Programmer, not on this list, that you have personally verified works with FORScan on your vehicle and can access APIM (As-Built Data) without issue.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Parts Required for Installation/Upgrade (NOT Included)
  • Sync 3 APIM Module (Navigation Equipped/Non-Navigation)
  • Sync 3 Capacitive Touch Screen Display
  • GPS Antenna with Blue Fakra Connector (Need for ALL Sync 3 APIMs, NOT just Navigation Units)
  • USB Interface Hub for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • USB Interface Hub Power Harness Pigtail (Soldered In) or Adapter Harness (Plug & Play)
  • OBD Programmer (See Prerequisites Above) to Program Sync 3 APIM
  • Note: 4" Displays to 8" Sync 3 Conversions will typically REQUIRE wiring changes and repining Ford wiring connectors to a different configuration, unless a custom wiring conversion harness is utilized.

• GPS Antenna
  • The Sync 2 (MyFord/MyLincoln Touch) GPS Antenna (GPSM Module) is NOT compatible with Sync 3.
  • The Sync 3 APIM requires its own antenna with a Blue Fakra Connector
  • Both Navigation Equipped and Non-Navigation (Compass Only) Sync 3 Units Require a GPS Antenna to function. The GPS Antenna is still used by the compass and Apple CarPlay in the Non-Navigation units.
  • On some vehicles, mainly 2015+ model years, you may notice the compass flopping back and forth between directions or not saying the correct direction. This is due to double CAN Bus messages with the compass signal, which it is receiving from both the GPSM module and the Sync 3 APIM. This mainly depends on the firmware version present on the GWM (Gateway Module) which has the OBD connector. If you notice this phenomenon, just disconnect the GPSM module in its entirety. It is not needed for Sync 3 and is only required in some vehicles to retain the functionality of the compass present on the instrument cluster or dashboard.
  • Sync 3 is compatible with the newer 2016+ Ford Roof Mount Antennas, such as the Shark Fin Style. You can remove your existing antenna and install a 2016 Antenna, if desired and available. Just make sure it is the version for a navigation equipped vehicle. You will also require a new splitter on the end of the line behind the dashboard/center console to split off the SiriusXM and GPS signals.
  • Screen Compatibility
    • Sync 3 units are available with three different screen styles. These different variations are known as: 8" Standard Mount, 8" Recessed Mount, and 6.5" Standard Mount
      • The 8" Standard Mount is generally compatible with or found in a: Ford C-MAX (2013+), Escape (2013+), Expedition (2015+), F-150 (2015+), Focus (2012+), Fusion (2013+), and Mustang (2015+). Lincoln MKC (2015+), MKZ (2013+), and Navigator (2015+).
      • The 8" Recessed Mount is generally compatible with or found in a: Ford Edge (2011+), Explorer (2011+), F-150 (2013-2014), F-250 (2013+), F-350 (2013+), Flex (2013+), and Taurus (2013+). Lincoln MKS (2013+), MKT (2013+), MKX (2011+)
      • The 6.5" Standard Mount is generally compatible with or found in a: Ford Fiesta (2014+) and Ford Transit (2014+)
    • Use this list as a general guide for cross compatibility of Sync 3 Screens. Always visually verify and confirm Sync 3 screen type before purchasing, to make sure it will fit your vehicle accordingly.
    • Existing Sync 2 (MyFord/MyLincoln Touch) Screens will NOT work with Sync 3. The touch screen type, connectors for the APIMs, and screw mounting locations are completely different.
  • Active Park Assist (If Equipped)
    • Some vehicles will lose their automated Active Park Assist support when upgrading from Sync 2 (MyFord/MyLincoln Touch) to Sync 3. This is due to an incompatible firmware version found in the PAM Module.

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  Disclaimer:
  Due to Sync3Programming.com having no physical hands-on involvement for the Sync 3 Upgrade Installation. The Customer, End User, and/or Vehicle Owner is solely responsible for any and all malfunctions including, but not limited to, improper installation of Sync 3 hardware, software, programming, and related components, should one occur. No liability will be accepted/assumed beyond purchased programming fee amount. Installing non-approved hardware, software, programming, and related components may have vehicle warranty (if applicable) repercussions, should an issue arise directly caused by such modifications. Do not purchase if you do not accept or understand this agreement. Should you feel uncomfortable physically installing Sync 3 unit yourself, seek assistance from a local Car Audio Installation Shop. Ask any install or ordering clarification questions before purchasing programming services.
  
  
  The brand names Ford, Lincoln, and Sync 3 are all owned and copyright Ford Motor Company and their other respective owners.