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Sync 3 Update Headache: Need Help!

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#1
Hello,
I'm updating my Sync 3.4 system and have a question. Is the difference in folder structure or files between Wi-Fi and USB updates normal during the process? When I update via USB, it shows (NUST-14G381-AD), but when I update via Wi-Fi, it shows
(4U5T-14G422-CAN).

Additionally, I'm a bit confused about the software versions. According to my vehicle's screen, I currently have Sync 3 version
3.4 Build 23188. However, the Ford website indicates that I have 3.4.22251 and shows an available update for 3.4.23188. Can someone explain why the versions seem to be inconsistent?

Thanks for your help!
 

Dale5403

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#2
You have the newest SYNC version installed. For some reason the update may not have been sent to Ford. I would not worry about it as I doubt there will be any more updates to SYNC 3
And I would turn off OTA updates.
 

Cdubya

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#3
If you have 23188, that's all you need to do. Turn off Automatic Updates. Stop checking the Ford site for updates.
 

Polizi212

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#4
DO not Believe the Ford Website. If your car says 23188 you are all set.
 

OP
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Thread Starter #5
But I'm trying to update it to Sync 4. According to Google, my car should have Sync 4, but I haven't made any changes yet!
 

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Thread Starter #6
And the map navigation is quirky. When I enter an address, my car and phone give different directions - the car says left, while my phone says right.

Which one should I follow???
 

Cdubya

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#7
But I'm trying to update it to Sync 4. According to Google, my car should have Sync 4, but I haven't made any changes yet!
Don't trust AI answers. The Explorer has never had Sync4 from the factory.
 

Polizi212

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#8
And the map navigation is quirky. When I enter an address, my car and phone give different directions - the car says left, while my phone says right.

Which one should I follow???
What version of maps is on your vehicle? I just recently updated my maps from the original version from the factory to the latest offered. 2023 ST will have sync 3.4 as the most recent update as or vehicles infotainment systems can not support sync 4 which comes in 2025 Ford Explorer ST. As far as maps keep in mind Ford charges you for the map updated. Google maps is updated much more often, and offers traffic information that sync maps won't.
 

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OP
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Thread Starter #9
Don't trust AI answers. The Explorer has never had Sync4 from the factory.
I got it! But don't worry. I'm just driving one way, and I'm being careful(y)
 

OP
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Thread Starter #10
What version of maps is on your vehicle? I just recently updated my maps from the original version from the factory to the latest offered. 2023 ST will have sync 3.4 as the most recent update as or vehicles infotainment systems can not support sync 4 which comes in 2025 Ford Explorer ST. As far as maps keep in mind Ford charges you for the map updated. Google maps is updated much more often, and offers traffic information that sync maps won't.
I have this: Version: 1.1.1.2323 (NA-0020)
 

OP
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Thread Starter #11
However, something's wrong since I try to update via Wi-Fi. Half of it downloads, but the other half stops. Then, the music plays something strange with letters that aren't Russian or German - I don't recognize what language.

I think it's better if I go to the Ford dealership again. I've heard that Sync updates are now covered under warranty as well.
 

Polizi212

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#12
However, something's wrong since I try to update via Wi-Fi. Half of it downloads, but the other half stops. Then, the music plays something strange with letters that aren't Russian or German - I don't recognize what language.

I think it's better if I go to the Ford dealership again. I've heard that Sync updates are now covered under warranty as well.

While trying to update my maps I had issues with it updating. after repeated call to ford Customer Relations they had me do a factory reset on the Radio and that made it take the updates. My Map version on a 2020 ST was NA 118 so effectively it was 2 updates behind. The Customer Relations guy said he has seen the update issue a few times and a reset worked to resolve it. He was right in my case. Also make sure you disconnect any Bluetooth devices from your Radio during the download and install as he said that can cause issues as well!
 

OP
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Thread Starter #13
I've read about doing a factory reset countless times, but I forgot to do it! And I should have also,
disconnecting all Bluetooth devices.
 



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