I’ve been trying to locate instructions on the Ford web site for downloading and installing the software updates to my Ford/Sony Navigation System which uses Microsoft SYNC technology.
The FAQ <http://www.syncmyride.com/Own/Modules/FaqManagement/FaqDetail.aspx?faqId=208> says this:
Updating SYNC
Keep your SYNC system up to date so you can get the most out of this exciting technology. Just follow this simple, three-step process.
Prepare USB Drive
Your first task is to locate a portable USB data storage device (we refer to it as a USB drive) on which the files will be downloaded. A USB drive will work with just about any computer. Although they can have a variety of shapes, most USB drives look very much like this example:
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A USB drive with small storage capacity (less than I Gigabyte) will be more than adequate for your SYNC download needs. We strongly encourage you to use a separate USB drive for each of your SYNC-equipped vehicles. This enables us to help you keep a current and accurate download and installation history for each of your vehicles equipped with SYNC.
Download files
After you’ve inserted your USB drive in the computer’s USB port, the screen will ask you to confirm which USB drive you want to use for the download procedure. Click on the name of the USB drive you want to use. On-screen prompts will assist you throughout the download process.
Install files
Once the files are downloaded onto your USB drive, safely remove the drive from your computer and take that USB drive to your vehicle. That’s where you’ll plug the USB drive into the vehicle’s SYNC USB port and the actual installation process will begin.
Um, sure. Just insert a USB drive and my computer will ask me which USB drive I want to use for my SYNC update. ‘Cause my computer knows all about the Ford Motor Company and the Sony Nav system and assumes that any USB drive I insert is for updating SYNC.
So, the first simple step is to “prepare” the USB drive and makes no mention of preparation as such, not even what format is preferred. I’m assuming MS DOS FAT.
The second simple step is to download files and no mention is made of where the files are found.
Step three will be a cinch inasmuch as I know right where my vehicle’s USB port is. I have every confidence that “the actual installation process will begin” just as they say it will.
I have a feeling there’s something that they’re not telling me about this “simple, three-step process.”
Apparently, there’s a downloads “widget” whose FAQ doesn’t mention where to get it either. Probably Windows only anyway.
<http://www.syncmyride.com/Own/Modules/FaqManagement/FaqDetail.aspx?faqId=218>
As with most things, I’m sure it’s easy, when you know how.