Is APIM covered under Ford warranty?

Yes. In most cases, the APIM infotainment module is covered by Ford’s bumper-to-bumper warranty during the standard warranty period (typically 3 years or 36,000 miles in the U.S.). If the issue occurs after the warranty expires, coverage may still be possible through goodwill or any applicable recalls or service campaigns.

APIM, short for Application Processor Interface Module, is the brain of Ford’s infotainment system, running SYNC, navigation, apps and voice control. When it fails due to a manufacturing defect, it is generally treated as a covered vehicle component within the warranty framework. This article explains how APIM warranty coverage typically works and what steps you can take to determine your status.

APIM and warranty basics

The APIM is a core part of the vehicle’s infotainment system. Warranty coverage for APIM follows Ford’s standard bumper-to-bumper terms, with some important caveats about timing, cause, and regional variations.

Definition and coverage scope

APIM refers to the infotainment head unit and related software systems that handle features such as SYNC, navigation, Bluetooth, and apps. When a defect in this module arises from manufacturing, it is generally included under the bumper-to-bumper warranty during the initial ownership period.

Before discussing specific coverage, note these key points about how warranty applies to APIM:

• Within the bumper-to-bumper window (typically 3 years/36,000 miles in the U.S.), manufacturing defects in APIM are typically repairable or replaceable at no charge.


• Powertrain warranty does not specifically govern APIM; APIM falls under bumper-to-bumper coverage unless another program applies.


• Damage due to accidents, improper aftermarket modifications, water intrusion, or user-caused damage is generally not covered.


• Recalls and active service campaigns that involve the APIM are covered even if a vehicle is near the end of its standard warranty period.


• Warranty terms vary by country/region; always verify with your local Ford dealer or official Ford Owner resources for your location.

In summary, if your APIM issue is due to a manufacturing defect and your vehicle is within the standard warranty window in your region, Ford typically covers the repair or replacement as part of the bumper-to-bumper warranty. Outside that window, coverage depends on goodwill or any applicable recalls/campaigns.

What to do if APIM fails

If you experience APIM problems, it helps to know how to verify coverage and start a claim process with confidence.

Steps to verify coverage and request service

Follow these practical steps to determine your APIM warranty status and arrange service:

• Check your warranty status using the Ford Owner account or by contacting your local Ford dealer, and have your VIN handy.


• Ask whether there are any recalls or service campaigns affecting APIM for your vehicle model and year.


• Have a dealer diagnose the issue to determine if it’s a manufacturing defect covered by bumper-to-bumper warranty.


• Bring relevant documentation (service history, proof of purchase, and error messages) to the appointment.


• If the APIM issue appears outside the warranty window, inquire about goodwill coverage, extended programs, or paid repair options.

Proactive verification can help you understand whether Ford will cover the repair under warranty or if there may be alternate options such as a service campaign. Always start with an authorized Ford dealer or the official Ford Owner resources for your country.

Special cases: recalls, campaigns, and leases

There are scenarios where APIM-related repairs receive coverage outside the standard bumper-to-bumper terms, particularly during recalls or active service campaigns. Leasing arrangements can also influence how repairs are billed, since the lease may include specific warranty terms tied to the lease agreement.

Recalls and campaigns

If Ford issues a recall or a technical service bulletin (TSB) that involves the APIM, the repair is covered regardless of where you are in the normal warranty window. Dealers will perform the required work under recall/service campaign guidance.

Leases and third-party repairs

Leased vehicles may have different warranty terms or coverage expectations, and third-party shops typically can perform APIM work only under the terms of Ford’s warranty or applicable goodwill programs. Always consult the leasing company and a Ford dealership for authorization when in doubt.

Summary

For most Ford owners, APIM is covered under the standard bumper-to-bumper warranty if the failure stems from a manufacturing defect and the vehicle is within the documented period (typically 3 years/36,000 miles in the U.S.). After that window, coverage depends on goodwill, recalls, or service campaigns, and regional terms may vary. To confirm your specific case, check your VIN, contact an authorized Ford dealer, and review any active recalls or campaigns related to APIM.

How to reset Ford APIM module?

To reset a Ford APIM module, use a soft reset by simultaneously pressing and holding the power and seek-right buttons for about 10 seconds, or perform a hard reset by disconnecting the vehicle's battery for 10 minutes. For a master reset, navigate to Settings > General > Reset > Master Reset within the infotainment menu, but be aware this erases all settings and paired devices. 
Soft reset (recommended for most issues) 

• For vehicles with a physical power button on the dashboard: Hold the power button and the seek-right button at the same time until the screen reboots. 
• For SYNC 4/4A without a physical seek-right button by the radio: Press and hold the radio's power button and the steering wheel's seek-right button together. 
• For SYNC 3: Press and hold the OK and seek-right buttons on the steering wheel. 
• If your vehicle has a power button on the center console: Hold the power button on the infotainment screen for about 10 seconds until it restarts. 

This video demonstrates how to soft reset the Ford SYNC 3 system: 58sRed5ohYouTube · Mar 14, 2024
Hard reset

• Turn off the vehicle and open the driver's door. 
• Press and hold the power button on the infotainment screen for about 10 seconds until it restarts. 
• If the screen is unresponsive, disconnect the negative and then the positive battery terminals. 
• Hold the disconnected battery cables together for about 30 seconds to discharge any remaining power. 
• Reconnect the positive cable first, then the negative one. 

This video demonstrates how to perform a hard reset by disconnecting the vehicle battery: 59sGreen Castle GarageYouTube · Aug 26, 2025
Master reset (erases all settings) 

• Navigate to Settings on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
• Select General.
• Press Reset.
• Tap Master/Factory Reset and follow the prompts to confirm.
• Note: This will erase your phone book, call history, and any paired devices. 

This video demonstrates how to perform a master reset on the Ford SYNC system: 1mJim ParisiYouTube · Aug 12, 2019
When to use each method

• Soft reset: Use this method first for minor issues like a frozen screen or minor glitches. It does not erase data. 
• Hard reset: Use this if the soft reset doesn't work. Disconnecting the battery is a more comprehensive reset. 
• Master reset: Use this as a last resort if other methods fail. Be aware that it will reset all settings to factory defaults. 

Is Ford Sync covered under warranty?

ExtraCARE: Bump the coverage up to 113 components. Includes everything mentioned so far, plus coverage for tech and convenience features. Daily essentials like keyless entry and window motors are protected! Tech features not covered include Ford SYNC® and rain sensing wipers.

What does the Ford APIM control?

The Ford Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) primarily controls the vehicle's infotainment system, including the SYNC 3 system's touchscreen, radio, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. It also manages other features that may be integrated into the infotainment system, such as the climate control and heated/cooled seat functions. The APIM receives inputs from various sensors and other control modules to operate these systems.
 
Key functions controlled by the APIM

• Infotainment system: This is the primary function of the APIM. It runs the software for the touchscreen, which is how you control many other features. 
• Radio and media: Manages all radio functions, including audio playback from various sources. 
• Navigation: Provides the navigation system's display and functionality. 
• Bluetooth: Handles wireless connectivity for phone calls and media streaming. 
• Climate control: Operates the climate control system, especially if there are no physical buttons for it. 
• Seat functions: Controls features like heated and cooled seats, especially on vehicles where these functions are only accessible through the touchscreen. 
• Steering wheel controls: Manages inputs from steering wheel buttons for the infotainment system. 

What is the recall on the Ford APIM?

Ford has issued recalls and customer satisfaction programs related to the APIM module, particularly for certain 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator and other models, due to issues like rearview camera flickering caused by electromagnetic interference from cell phones. The remedy for this recall involves installing shielding on the APIM module for free, and owners should be aware of potential software updates for other APIM-related problems like frozen or black screens. 
Current APIM recalls and issues

• Lincoln Aviator APIM Recall: A recall was issued for certain 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviators because electromagnetic interference from a cell phone can cause the rearview camera image to flicker or become distorted, increasing the risk of a crash. The remedy is the installation of shielding on the APIM module at no cost to the owner. 
• Software updates: Some vehicles have received software updates to address issues like a frozen or black infotainment screen, especially when shifting into reverse. 

How to check if your vehicle is affected

• Check online: Visit the Ford Recall page or use the FordPass app and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 
• Check your mail: Recall letters are mailed to the vehicle's last known registered owner. 

What to do if your vehicle is affected

• Contact a dealer: Schedule an appointment with a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the free remedy performed.
• Follow guidance: You may be advised to refrain from using your cell phone while reversing until the repair is completed. 

Other APIM issues and potential fixes

• Not all issues are recalls: Some APIM problems, such as a completely failed module, may not be covered by a recall and could result in out-of-pocket repair costs. 
• Software updates: You can try to update your SYNC software via a USB drive or Wi-Fi if your vehicle is not included in a recall but is experiencing issues like voice recognition or phone connectivity problems, according to this YouTube video and this NHTSA TSB. 
• Master reset: A master reset in the general settings menu of your SYNC system may resolve some issues.