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Sync 3 Resets

Soft Reset, Power Reset, and Master Reset for the Sync 3 system Engineering Menu

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Written by David C Funk
Updated over 2 months ago

Soft, Hard, and Master Reset (SYNC 3)

There are several ways to reset a SYNC 3 system for troubleshooting or routine maintenance. Over time, you may need to perform one or more resets to resolve minor glitches or performance issues.

SYNC 3 modules are “always on” and will only restart if the vehicle battery is disconnected or a reset is manually performed. Similar to restarting a home computer or smartphone, a reset can often resolve a wide range of system issues.

Types of Resets

Soft Reset

  • Restarts the system without deleting any personal settings or data.

  • Performs a controlled shutdown and reboot.

Hard Reset

  • Restarts the system without deleting any personal settings or data.

  • Forces an immediate shutdown and reboot.

Master Reset

  • Restores the system to factory default settings.

  • Erases all personal data and saved settings.

  • Bluetooth pairings, saved navigation addresses, and FordPass connections (if equipped) will need to be set up again.

How to Perform Each Reset

Soft Reset Procedure

  1. Press and hold the Seek Up (>>|) button.

  2. While holding it, press and hold the Radio Power button.

  3. After about 5 seconds, the screen will turn black. Release both buttons.

  4. Wait for the system to restart.

Hard Reset Procedure

  1. Turn the ignition OFF.

  2. Disconnect power to the SYNC module by either:

    • Disconnecting the vehicle battery, or

    • Unplugging the large 54-pin connector at the back of the module.

  3. Wait 30 seconds.

  4. Reconnect power.

  5. Turn the ignition ON and allow the system to boot up.

Master Reset Procedure

  1. Tap Settings in the feature bar at the bottom of the screen.

  2. Select General (you may need to swipe to the next page).

  3. Scroll down and select Master Reset.

  4. When prompted that all settings will be erased and restored to factory defaults, tap Continue.

  5. The screen will display “Resetting to factory defaults,” then go blank.

  6. Allow several minutes for the system to complete the reset and return to normal operation.

Sync 3 Engineering Menu

To access the Ford SYNC 3 hidden engineering/diagnostic menu, turn the radio on (AM/FM), then simultaneously press and hold the Seek Forward ( ≫| ) button on the steering wheel and the Seek Forward ( ≫| ) button on the center console for 5–10 seconds. The screen will display a speaker test, which you can end to access diagnostics, APIM settings, etc.

* If the standard method doesn't work, try holding the Audio Power button and the Seek Back ( ≪| ) button simultaneously.

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