Can you add Android Auto to Ford SYNC?

Yes — most Ford models equipped with SYNC 3 or SYNC 4 can run Android Auto, either through official software updates or built-in wireless/wired support. Older SYNC 2 systems generally do not support Android Auto and may require upgrading the head unit or installing an aftermarket solution.

Compatibility overview by SYNC version

Android Auto availability depends on the SYNC generation and model year. Here is a quick guide to what each generation typically supports.

• SYNC 2 (roughly 2010–2015/2016): No native Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Upgrades require replacing the head unit.


• SYNC 3 (roughly 2016–2023): Android Auto and CarPlay are available via USB after software updates; wireless support is limited and model‑dependent.


• SYNC 4 (from 2020 model year onward): Android Auto supported wired and, in many models, wireless (depends on trim, firmware, and market).

Note: Availability varies by model, region, and optional packages. Always check the specific model’s features sheet or with a dealer for confirmation.

Enabling Android Auto on SYNC 3

The following steps apply to Ford vehicles that use the SYNC 3 infotainment system and support Android Auto via USB. If your vehicle doesn’t show Android Auto, you may need a software update or a dealer check for compatibility.

1. Prepare your phone: ensure Android Auto is installed or updated on your device and grant the necessary permissions (location, notifications, microphone).


2. Power on the vehicle and connect your phone to the USB port labeled with a smartphone icon using a high-quality cable.


3. On the SYNC 3 screen, follow prompts to enable Android Auto and approve required permissions on your phone.


4. Complete any on-screen setup steps (terms, consent to data sharing, etc.) and wait for Android Auto to launch on the head unit.


5. Once set up, Android Auto should appear on the home screen and allow you to use compatible apps (Maps, Music, Messages, etc.) through the vehicle display.

Conclusion: With the proper software version and a supported USB connection, Android Auto becomes accessible on SYNC 3 head units.

Enabling Android Auto on SYNC 4

SYNC 4 adds both wired and wireless Android Auto options on many models, though availability can depend on trim and firmware. The general setup is similar to SYNC 3, with additional wireless capabilities in supported configurations.

1. Ensure your car has the latest SYNC 4 firmware and that Android Auto is enabled in the infotainment settings (and your phone has Android Auto up to date).


2. Wired setup: Connect your Android phone to a USB port (often the same smartphone port or a dedicated USB port) and accept prompts on the phone and the head unit to start Android Auto.


3. Wireless setup (where supported): In the car, go to Settings > Android Auto (or Wireless Android Auto) and enable wireless pairing. On your phone, enable Wireless Android Auto in the Android Auto settings and complete the pairing over Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth as prompted.


4. Follow on-screen prompts to grant permissions and finalize the connection. Android Auto should now appear on the SYNC 4 screen.


5. Note that wireless performance can depend on signal strength, phone model, and firmware; if wireless is flaky, you can fall back to a wired connection.

Wired vs wireless: Wired Android Auto works in all compatible SYNC 4 units, while wireless is available only on select trims and markets where Ford ships wireless Android Auto support.

Wired vs wireless: what's supported?

Wired Android Auto is the baseline and works across SYNC 3 (with the right software) and most SYNC 4 configurations. Wireless Android Auto is an option on many SYNC 4 vehicles, but not universally across all trims or regions. Always verify with your model’s specifications or a dealer.

Conclusion: In SYNC 4, you typically have the option to use Android Auto wirelessly where supported, with a fallback to wired if needed.

What if you have older SYNC 2 or you want a retrofit?

For owners of SYNC 2 or early SYNC 3 vehicles that lack Android Auto, you have limited native upgrade paths and several retrofit options exist, each with its own considerations.

Upgrade options for SYNC 2 or unsupported SYNC 3

• Official upgrade through a Ford dealer to a newer SYNC version (often SYNC 3 or newer) if the vehicle supports such an upgrade; costs and feasibility vary by vehicle and region.


• Replace the factory head unit with an aftermarket infotainment system that includes Android Auto, CarPlay, and modern UI; ensure compatibility with steering wheel controls, microphones, and factory wiring.


• Stay with the stock head unit and use an external adapter or smartphone-based mounting solution for limited Android Auto access, noting this is not integrated on the car’s display.

Conclusion: If native Android Auto isn’t available, upgrading the head unit—either via an official platform upgrade or an aftermarket system—offers the best path to full Android Auto integration.

Practical tips and caveats

To maximize reliability and avoid common issues when using Android Auto with Ford SYNC, consider these tips:

• Keep both your phone’s OS and Android Auto app (where applicable) up to date, as well as the vehicle’s firmware.


• Use a high-quality USB cable for wired connections; some cheap cables can cause connection drops or slow charging.


• When using wireless Android Auto, ensure your phone remains within range and that Bluetooth/Wi‑Fi settings permit the connection; wireless performance can vary by environment.


• Review app permissions and data usage settings to balance functionality with privacy and battery life.


• If Android Auto doesn’t start automatically, open the Android Auto app on your phone or reinsert the USB cable and retry the pairing prompts on the head unit.

Conclusion: Following these practical tips can reduce connection problems and help you get the most from Android Auto in Ford vehicles with SYNC.

Summary

In short, Android Auto can be added or used in most Ford vehicles with SYNC 3 or SYNC 4, typically via USB—or wirelessly in many SYNC 4 configurations. Older SYNC 2 systems generally do not support Android Auto and require either upgrading the infotainment system or replacing the head unit. Always confirm compatibility for your exact model year and market with Ford support or your dealer, and keep software up to date to ensure a smooth Android Auto experience.

Can my Ford SYNC be upgraded?

Note: While you cannot upgrade to a newer SYNC generation, you can still update the software version. To see if your SYNC system is operating on the latest version, visit the SYNC and Navigation Updates page, enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and select Check for update.

How to add Android Auto to Ford SYNC?

To use Android Auto with Ford SYNC, first download the Android Auto app, then connect your compatible Android phone to your car's USB port or via Bluetooth for wireless connection. After connecting, follow the on-screen prompts on both your phone and the SYNC screen to agree to terms and enable Android Auto. Once set up, your phone's Android Auto interface will appear on the SYNC touchscreen, allowing you to use apps like Google Maps and send/receive messages via voice command. 
This video demonstrates how to connect your Android phone to Ford SYNC 3 using a USB cable: 1mFord Motor CompanyYouTube · Apr 6, 2017
Step-by-step guide

1. Prepare your phone:
   • Ensure your Android phone has the Android Auto app installed. You may also need other Google apps like Google Maps and Google Play Music.
   • Check that your phone's operating system is version 5.0 (Lollipop) or newer.
   • Make sure your phone's Bluetooth is turned on for wireless connections.
2. Connect your phone:
   • For USB connection: Use a high-quality USB cable to connect your phone to a USB port in your Ford.
   • For wireless connection: Go to your SYNC settings and your phone's Bluetooth settings, then search for your vehicle and pair the devices.
3. Follow the prompts:
   • A message will appear on your SYNC screen. Select Continue.
   • You will be prompted to agree to the terms and conditions on both the SYNC display and your phone.
   • If you see an option to enable Android Auto automatically in the future, select it. 

This video shows how to connect to wireless Android Auto in a new Ford vehicle: 59sSmail FordYouTube · Jun 24, 2022

1. Start using Android Auto:
   • Once the setup is complete, the Android Auto interface will appear on your SYNC screen.
   • You can now use voice commands to access apps, make calls, send messages, and navigate using Google Maps.
   • To access SYNC features, you may need to press the "SYNC" button on the screen to switch back to the SYNC interface. 

How to add Android Auto to car that doesn't have it?

Yes, there are ways to add Android Auto to older cars that originally do not have built-in Android Auto. A common option is to replace your current head unit with an aftermarket head unit that has the Android Auto functionality. A head unit is the multi-media control unit in the center of your car's dashboard.

Can I get Android Auto added to my car?

Yes, you can add Android Auto to your car, either by checking if your existing car is compatible for a wired or wireless connection, or by installing an aftermarket solution like a new head unit or a plug-in adapter. The easiest method depends on your car's current features, but it is possible to upgrade most vehicles to use the system. 
This video explains how to add Android Auto to your car with a plug-in adapter: 56sEd's GarageYouTube · Aug 18, 2025
Method 1: Use your existing system

• Check if your car is compatible with Android Auto by looking for supported models on the Android Auto website. 
• If your car is compatible, connect your phone to the car's USB port for a wired connection. 
• If your car supports wireless Android Auto, you can connect wirelessly through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. 

This video shows how to connect your phone to your car's Android Auto system: 52sEd's GarageYouTube · Feb 4, 2025
Method 2: Install an aftermarket solution 

• Replace the head unit: You can replace your car's original head unit (the main dashboard control unit) with an aftermarket one that supports Android Auto. This is a more integrated solution that may require professional installation. 
• Use a plug-in adapter: For a simpler solution, you can use a plug-in device that connects to a USB port or accessory outlet. These adapters often have their own screen and can connect wirelessly to your phone via Bluetooth, eliminating the need to replace your car's head unit. 
• Install a separate screen: Mount a separate Android Auto screen to your dashboard. These devices can connect to your car's audio system through a Bluetooth or auxiliary connection. 

This video demonstrates the setup process for a plug-in adapter: 1mAsk DIY DadYouTube · Sep 25, 2024
Other options

• Software updates: Some car manufacturers offer software upgrades to add Android Auto to older compatible models. 
• Check the manufacturer's website: Some manufacturers provide official retrofit kits to add the full Android Auto experience to their vehicles.