SYNC? 3 for Your Ford Explorer SUV Sixth Generation (2012-2020)

SYNC3  
Using the Touchscreen  
GENERAL INFORMATION  
WARNING:Driving while distracted  
can result in loss of vehicle control, crash  
and injury. We strongly recommend that  
you use extreme caution when using any  
device that may take your focus off the  
road. Your primary responsibility is the  
safe operation of your vehicle. We  
recommend against the use of any  
hand-held device while driving and  
encourage the use of voice-operated  
systems when possible. Make sure you  
are aware of all applicable local laws  
that may affect the use of electronic  
devices while driving.  
823  
A
B
C
D
E
Status bar.  
Home screen.  
Clock. See Settings (page 464).  
Outside air temperature.  
About SYNC  
The system allows you to interact with the  
entertainment, information and  
communication systems on your vehicle  
using voice commands and a touchscreen.  
The system provides easy interaction with  
audio, phone, navigation, mobile apps and  
settings.  
Status Bar  
Cell phone microphone muted.  
Note: You can switch the system on and  
use it for up to an hour without switching  
the ignition on.  
Note: You can use the system after you  
switch the ignition off for up to 10 minutes  
or until you open a door.  
Note: For your safety, some features are  
speed-dependent. Their use is limited to  
when your vehicle speed is less than 3 mph  
(5 km/h).  
Audio system muted.  
Software update installed.  
Wi-Fi connected.  
Cell phone roaming.  
Text message received.  
433  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Automatic crash notification  
Updating the System  
UpdatingtheSystemUsingaUSBDrive  
system off.  
Cell phone network signal  
strength.  
Downloading an Update  
1. Go to the SYNC update page on the  
local Ford website.  
Vehicle data sharing on.  
2. Download the update.  
Note: The website notifies you if an update  
Vehicle location sharing on.  
is available.  
3. Insert a USB drive into your computer.  
Vehicle data and vehicle location  
sharing on.  
Note: The USB drive needs to be empty and  
meet the minimum requirements detailed  
on the website.  
Wireless charger active.  
4. Follow the instructions provided to  
download the update to the USB drive.  
Installing an Update  
Feature Bar  
Note: You can use the system when an  
Select to use the radio, a USB, a  
media player or a Bluetooth  
device. See Entertainment  
installation is in progress.  
1. Disconnect all other USB devices from  
(page 441).  
the USB ports.  
2. Connect the USB drive with the update  
to a USB port.  
Note: Installation starts automatically  
within 10 minutes.  
phone. See Phone (page 453).  
Updating the System Using a Wi-Fi  
Network Connection  
Select to use the navigation  
Connecting to a Wi-Fi Network  
Select the settings option on the  
Android device. See Apps (page  
feature bar.  
1. Select Automatic Updates.  
2. Select System Wi-Fi.  
3. Switch System Wi-Fi on.  
4. Select Available Wi-Fi Networks.  
5. Select an available Wi-Fi network.  
461).  
Select to adjust system settings.  
See Settings (page 464).  
See Cleaning the Interior (page 346).  
Note: Enter the network password to  
connect to a secure network.  
434  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Switching Automatic System Updates  
USING VOICE RECOGNITION  
On  
The system allows you to interact with the  
Select the settings option on the  
feature bar.  
entertainment, information and  
communication systems on your vehicle  
using voice commands. This allows you  
to keep your hands on the steering wheel  
and focus on what is in front of you.  
1. Select Automatic Updates.  
2. Switch Automatic System Updates  
on.  
Press the voice control button  
The system is now set to check for and  
receive system updates when it is  
connected to a Wi-Fi network.  
on the steering wheel and wait  
for the voice prompt.  
Note: Press the voice control button again  
to interrupt a voice prompt and begin  
speaking.  
Note: You can use the system when a  
download is in progress.  
Note: If the system is disconnected from  
the Wi-Fi network when a download is in  
progress, the download continues the next  
time the system is connected to a Wi-Fi  
network.  
Note: Turn the volume control when a voice  
prompt plays to adjust the volume.  
Note: Press and hold the voice control  
button on the steering wheel to use Siri on  
your iOS device.  
Additional Information and  
The following voice commands are  
Assistance  
designed to help you from any screen:  
List of Commands  
Help  
For additional information and assistance,  
we recommend that you contact an  
authorized dealer or refer to the local Ford  
website.  
The following tables list some of the more  
frequently used voice commands. For a  
complete list of voice commands, refer to  
our website.  
General  
Voice Command  
Description  
Get a list of voice commands for a specific feature.1  
Cancel an active voice session.  
___ List of Commands  
Cancel  
Get a list of voice commands for a specific feature.1  
Return to the previous screen.  
___ Help  
Go back  
Main Menu  
Go to the main menu.  
435  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
 
SYNC3  
Voice Command  
Next Page  
Previous Page  
Description  
Go to the next page.  
Go to the previous page.  
1 Add the name of the feature to the command.  
Entertainment  
Audio Source  
Voice Command  
Description  
Radio  
Use the radio.  
CD Player  
Bluetooth Stereo  
USB  
Use the CD player.  
Use a Bluetooth device.  
Use a USB or media player.  
Radio  
Voice Command  
Description  
AM  
Listen to AM radio.  
Tune to a specific AM frequency.1  
AM ___  
Listen to SiriusXM radio.2  
Listen to FM radio.  
Sirius Channel ___  
FM  
Tune to a specific FM frequency.1  
FM ___  
1 Add the radio frequency to two decimal places to the command.  
2 You can say the Sirius channel name or number such as "Sirius Channel 16" or "Sirius  
The Pulse".  
436  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
USB and Media Player  
Voice Command  
Play Album ___  
Description  
Play Artist ___  
Play Genre ___  
Play your music by category.1  
Play Playlist ___  
Play Song ___  
Play Audiobook ___  
Play Podcast ___  
Browse All Albums  
Browse All Artists  
Browse All Audiobooks  
Browse All Genres  
Browse All Playlists  
Browse All Podcasts  
Browse All Songs  
Browse Album ___  
Browse Artist ___  
Browse Audiobook ___  
Browse Genre ___  
Browse Playlist ___  
Browse Podcast ___  
Browse music on a USB device.  
Browse your music by category on a USB device.1  
1 Add an album name, artist name, audiobook name, genre name, playlist name, podcast  
name or track name to the command. Say the name exactly as it appears on your device.  
___ is a dynamic listing, meaning that for  
Climate (If Equipped)  
climate voice commands it can be the  
desired degrees for the temperature  
setting.  
You can control the temperature of the  
vehicle using voice commands.  
437  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
To adjust the temperature, say:  
Voice command  
Description  
Set Temperature ___  
Adjust the temperature between 6085°F  
(15.529.5°C).  
Phone  
Voice Command  
Pair Phone  
Description  
Pair a cell phone or Bluetooth enabled device.  
Redial the last number that you dialed.  
Redial  
Dial a number.1  
Dial ___  
Call a specific contact from your phonebook.2  
Call ___  
Call ___ ___  
Call a specific contact from your phonebook at a  
specific location.3  
Listen to Message  
Listen to a text message.  
Listen to Message ___  
Listen to a specific text message from a list of text  
messages.  
Reply to Message  
Reply to the last text message.  
1 Add the number you want to dial to the command.  
2 Add a contact name from your phonebook to the command. Say the first and last name  
of your contact exactly as it appears on your device.  
3 Add a contact name and location from your phonebook to the command. Say the first  
and last name of your contact exactly as it appears on your device.  
438  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Navigation (If Equipped)  
Setting a Destination  
Voice Command  
Description  
Find an Address  
Enter a destination address. When prompted,  
provide the house number, the street and city.  
Find a Place  
Search for a point of interest by name or by category.  
Search for a nearby point of interest by category.1  
Find the Next ___  
Search for a point of interest category.1  
Find a POI Category  
Drive Home  
Set your saved home address as your destination.  
Set your saved place of work as your destination.  
Drive to Work  
Show Previous Destinations  
Display and select from a list of previous destina-  
tions.  
Show Favorites  
Display and select from a list of favorite destinations.  
1 Add a point of interest category or the name of a major brand or chain to the command.  
Route Guidance  
Voice Command  
Cancel Route  
Description  
Cancel the current route.  
Detour  
Select an alternate route.  
Repeat Instruction  
Show Route  
Show Traffic  
Show Map  
North Up  
Repeat the last guidance prompt.  
Display an overview of the route.  
Display a list of traffic events on your route.  
Display the map on the touchscreen.  
Display a two-dimensional map with north toward  
the top of the touchscreen.  
Heading Up  
Show 3D  
Display a two-dimensional map with the direction  
you are traveling toward the top of the touchscreen.  
Display a three-dimensional map with the direction  
you are traveling toward the front.  
439  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Apps  
General  
Voice Command  
Description  
Mobile Applications  
Start an app. The system prompts you for the app  
name.  
List Applications  
Find Applications  
Get a list of apps running on your device.  
Search and connect to apps running on your device.  
Active App  
Voice Command  
Description  
Get a list of voice commands for a specific app.1  
Close an app.1  
___ Help  
Exit ___  
1 Add an app name to the command.  
SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link(If Equipped)  
Voice  
Description  
command  
Show  
Displays a list of traffic incidents.  
Displays the current weather map.  
Traffic  
Show  
Weather  
Map  
Show Fuel Displays a list of fuel prices.  
Prices  
Show 5  
Day Fore-  
cast  
Displays the 5 day weather forecast.  
440  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Voice Settings  
Voice Command  
Description  
Voice Settings  
Go to the voice settings menu.  
Switch long voice prompts on.  
Switch short voice prompts on.  
Interaction Mode Novice  
Interaction Mode Advanced  
Phone Confirmation On  
Switch call confirmation on. The system prompts  
you to confirm before making a call.  
Phone Confirmation Off  
Switch call confirmation off. The system does not  
prompt you to confirm before making a call.  
Voice Command Lists On  
Voice Command Lists Off  
Switch the display of voice commands on.  
Switch the display of voice commands off.  
Automatic Blower Motor Speed  
Reduction  
ENTERTAINMENT  
If necessary, the system decreases the  
blower motor speed when you are using  
voice commands to reduce the amount of  
background noise in your vehicle. It returns  
to normal when you are done.  
A
Switching Automatic Blower Motor  
Speed Reduction Off  
Simultaneously press the A/C and  
recirculated air buttons.  
B
E293491  
A
B
Audio source. Select to choose  
a different audio source.  
Presets. Swipe left to view more  
presets.  
You can access these options using the  
touchscreen or voice commands.  
441  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
 
SYNC3  
Press this button to select the source of  
media you want to listen to.  
Sources  
Menu Item  
AM  
FM  
1
SIRIUS  
CD  
USB  
The name of the USB that is plugged in displays here.  
Bluetooth Stereo  
Apps If you have SYNC 3 compatible apps on your connected smart phone, they  
display here as individual source selections.  
1 This feature may not be available in all markets and requires an active subscription.  
Once you have entered the station's  
AM/FM Radio  
call numbers, you can select:  
Tuning a Station  
Menu Item  
Action and Descrip-  
tion  
You can use the tune or seek controls on  
the radio bezel to select a station.  
Enter  
Press to begin  
playing the station  
you have entered.  
To tune a station using the  
touchscreen, select:  
Cancel  
Press to exit  
Menu Item  
without changing  
the station.  
Direct Tune  
Presets  
A pop up appears, allowing you to type in  
the frequency of a station. You can only  
enter a valid station for the source you are  
currently listening to.  
To set a new preset, tune to the station  
and then press and hold one of the  
memory preset buttons. The audio mutes  
briefly while the system saves the station  
and then returns.  
You can press the backspace button to  
delete the previously entered number.  
You may be able to add additional preset  
pages using the settings option on the  
feature bar.  
442  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
For more information on extended  
SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (If  
Activated)  
Note: This feature may not be available in  
all markets and requires an active  
subscription.  
subscription terms (a service fee is  
required), the online media player and a  
list of SiriusXM satellite radio channels,  
and other features, please visit  
SiriusXM at 1-888-539-7474.  
Note: SiriusXM reserves the unrestricted  
right to change, rearrange, add or delete  
programming. This includes canceling,  
moving or adding particular channels, and  
its prices, at any time, with or without notice  
to you. We are not responsible for any such  
programming changes.  
Note: This receiver includes the eCos  
real-time operating system. eCos is  
published under the eCos License.  
E234451  
SiriusXM satellite radio is a  
subscription-based satellite radio service  
that broadcasts a variety of music, sports,  
news, weather, traffic and entertainment  
programming. Your factory-installed  
SiriusXM satellite radio system includes  
hardware and a limited subscription term  
that begins on the date of sale or lease of  
your vehicle. See an authorized dealer for  
availability.  
The following buttons are available for SiriusXM:  
Menu Item Action and Description  
Browse  
Direct Tune  
Touch this button to see a list of available stations.  
A pop-up appears, allowing you to type in the call numbers of  
a station.  
Once you enter the stations call numbers, you can select:  
Enter  
The system tunes to the station you select.  
Cancel  
You exit the pop-up and the current station  
continues to play.  
You can press the backspace button to delete the previous  
number.  
443  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Menu Item  
Replay  
Action and Description  
Replay audio on the current channel. You can replay approx-  
imately 45 minutes of audio as long as you remain tuned to  
the current station. Changing stations erases the previous  
audio.  
Live  
When you are in replay mode, you are not  
able to select a different preset until you  
return to live audio. Pressing this button  
returns you to the live broadcast.  
ALERT  
Save the current song, artist, or team as a favorite. The system  
alerts you when it plays again on any channel.  
Selecting this button allows you to enable and edit alerts.  
You may be able to add additional preset  
pages using the settings option on the  
feature bar.  
Memory Presets  
To set a preset, tune to the station then  
press and hold one of the memory preset  
buttons. The audio mutes briefly while the  
system saves the station and returns once  
the station is stored.  
SiriusXM Satellite Radio Reception Factors and Troubleshooting  
Potential Reception Issues  
Antenna obstructions  
Terrain  
For optimal reception performance, keep the antenna clear  
of snow and ice build-up and keep luggage and other  
materials as far away from the antenna as possible.  
Hills, mountains, tall buildings, bridges, tunnels, freeway  
overpasses, parking garages, dense tree foliage and thunder-  
storms can interfere with your reception.  
Station overload  
When you pass a ground-based broadcast-repeating tower,  
a stronger signal may overtake a weaker one and the audio  
system may mute.  
Satellite radio signal  
interference  
Your display may show ACQUIRING... to indicate the interfer-  
ence and the audio system may mute.  
444  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Troubleshooting Tips  
Cause  
Message  
Action  
Acquiring Signal  
Radio requires more than two No action required. This  
seconds to produce audio for message should disappear  
the selected channel.  
shortly.  
Satellite antenna fault There is an internal module or If this message does not clear  
system failure present.  
shortly, or with an ignition key  
cycle, your receiver may have  
a fault. See an authorized  
dealer for service.  
SIRIUS system failure  
Invalid Channel  
The channel is no longer avail- Tune to another channel or  
able.  
choose another preset.  
Unsubscribed Channel Your subscription does not  
include this channel.  
Contact SiriusXM at 1-888-  
539-7474 to subscribe to the  
channel, or tune to another  
channel.  
Satellite acquiring  
The signal is lost from the Siri- The signal is blocked. When  
usXM satellite or SiriusXM you move into an open area,  
tower to your vehicle antenna. the signal should return.  
signal…  
Updating…  
Update of channel program-  
ming in progress.  
No action required. The  
process may take up to three  
minutes.  
Questions? Call 1-  
888-539-7474  
Your satellite service is no  
longer available.  
Contact SiriusXM at 1-888-  
539-7474 to resolve subscrip-  
tion issues.  
None found. Check  
channel guide.  
All the channels in the selected Use the channel guide or the  
category are either skipped or Sirius XM Settings tile to turn  
locked.  
off the Lock or Skip function on  
that station.  
SIRIUS Subscription  
updated  
SiriusXM has updated the  
channels available for your  
vehicle.  
No action required.  
Note: HD Radio broadcasts are not  
HD RadioInformation (If  
available in all markets.  
Available)  
To activate HD radio, please see the Radio  
Settings in the Settings Chapter. See  
Settings (page 464).  
445  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
HD Radio technology is the digital  
The HD logo is grey when acquiring a digital  
station, and then changes to orange when  
digital audio is playing. When this logo is  
available, you may also see Title and Artist  
fields on-screen.  
The multicast indicator appears in FM  
mode (only) if the current station is  
broadcasting multiple digital broadcasts.  
The highlighted numbers signify available  
digital channels where new or different  
content is available. HD1 signifies the main  
programming status and is available in  
analog and digital broadcasts. Other  
multicast stations (HD2 through HD7) are  
only available digitally.  
evolution of analog AM/FM radio. Your  
system has a special receiver that allows  
it to receive digital broadcasts (where  
available) in addition to the analog  
broadcasts, it already receives. Digital  
broadcasts provide a better sound quality  
than analog broadcasts with free,  
crystal-clear audio and no static or  
distortion. For more information, and a  
guide to available stations and  
programming, please visit:  
Website  
Note: There is also an additional feature  
for stations that have more than 1 HD  
multicast (For example, HD1 or HD2). The  
HD logo and Radio text appears as a button.  
Pressing this button allows you to cycle  
through all of the HD stations on that  
specific frequency. For example, if you are  
on 101.1 and it has HD1, HD2, HD3, pressing  
the button repeatedly causes the radio to  
cycle through the HD stations in a cyclic  
increasing order.  
When HD Radio is on and you tune to a  
station broadcasting HD Radio technology,  
you may notice the following indicators on  
your screen:  
E142616  
When HD Radio broadcasts are active, you can access the following functions:  
Message  
Action and Description  
Presets  
Allows you to save an active channel as a memory preset.  
Touch and hold a memory preset slot until the sound returns.  
There is a brief mute while the radio saves the station. Sound  
returns when the channel saves. When switching to an HD2  
or HD3 memory preset, the sound mutes before the digital  
audio plays, because the system has to reacquire the digital  
signal.  
Note: As with any station you save, you cannot access the saved station if your vehicle is  
outside the stations reception area.  
446  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
HD Radio Reception and Station Troubleshooting  
Potential Reception Issues  
Reception area  
If you are listening to a multicast station and you are on the  
fringe of the reception area, the station may mute due to  
weak signal strength.  
If you are listening to HD1, the system changes back to the  
analog broadcast until the digital broadcast is available again.  
However, if you are listening to any of the possible HD2-HD7  
multicast channels, the station mutes and stays muted unless  
it is able to connect to the digital signal again.  
Station blending  
When the system first receives a station (aside from HD2-  
HD7 multicast stations), it first plays the station in the analog  
version. Once the receiver verifies the station is an HD Radio  
station, it shifts to the digital version. Depending on the station  
quality, you may hear a slight sound change when the station  
changes from analog to digital. Blending is the shift from  
analog to digital sound or digital back to analog sound.  
In order to provide the best possible  
experience, use the contact form to report  
any station issues found while listening to  
a station broadcasting with HD Radio  
technology. Independent entities own and  
operate each station. These stations are  
responsible for ensuring all audio streams  
and data fields are accurate.  
Potential Station Issues  
Cause  
Issues  
Action  
Echo, stutter, skip or  
repeat in audio.  
This is poor time alignment by No action required. This is a  
the radio broadcaster.  
broadcast issue.  
Increase or decrease in  
audio volume.  
Sound fading or  
The radio is shifting between  
analog and digital audio.  
No action required. The recep-  
tion issue may clear up as you  
continue to drive.  
blending in and out.  
There is an audio mute The digital multicast is not  
delay when selecting available until the HD Radio  
HD2 or HD3, multicast broadcast is decoded. Once  
preset or Direct Tune. decoded, the audio is available.  
No action required. This is  
normal behavior. Wait until the  
audio is available.  
447  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Potential Station Issues  
Cause  
Issues  
Action  
Cannot access HD2 or The previously stored multicast No action required. The station  
HD3 multicast channel preset or direct tune is not  
is not available in your current  
when recalling a preset available in your current recep- location.  
or from a direct tune. tion area.  
Fill out the station issue form.1  
Text information does Data service issue by the radio  
not match currently  
playing audio.  
broadcaster.  
There is no text  
Data service issue by the radio Fill out the station issue form.  
1
information shown for broadcaster.  
currently selected  
frequency.  
1
You can find the form here:  
Website  
http://hdradio.com/stations/feedback  
CD(If Equipped)  
HD Radio Technology manufactured under  
license from iBiquity Digital Corporation  
and foreign patents. HD Radio and the HD  
and HD Radio logos are proprietary  
trademarks of DTS. The vehicle  
Once you select this option, the system  
returns you to the main audio screen.  
The current audio information appears on  
the screen.  
manufacturer and DTS are not responsible  
for the content sent using HD Radio  
technology. Content may be changed,  
added or deleted at any time at the station  
owner's discretion.  
The following buttons are also available:  
Button  
Function  
Browse  
Repeat  
You can use the browse button to select a track.  
Select this button and a small number one displays to indicate  
the track is set to repeat.  
448  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Button  
Function  
For MP3 CDs, this button allows you to toggle through repeat  
off, repeat one track (a small number one displays), and repeat  
current folder (a small folder displays).  
Shuffle  
Select the shuffle symbol to have the audio on the disk play  
in random order.  
Bluetooth Stereo or USB  
You can use the forward, reverse, pause or  
play buttons to control the audio playback.  
Bluetooth Stereo and USB allow you to  
access media that you store on your  
Bluetooth device or USB device such as  
music, audio books or podcasts.  
The following buttons are available for Bluetooth and USB:  
Button  
Function  
Repeat  
Pressing the repeat button toggles the repeat setting through  
three modes: repeat off (button not highlighted), repeat all  
(button highlighted) and repeat track (button highlighted with  
a small number one).  
Shuffle  
Play the tracks in random order.  
For some devices, SYNC 3 is able to  
You can use the forward, reverse, pause or  
play buttons to control the audio playback.  
To get more information about the  
currently playing track, press the cover art  
or Info button.  
provide 30-second skip buttons when you  
listen to audio books or podcasts. These  
buttons allow you to skip forward or  
backward within a track.  
While playing audio from a USB device you  
can look for certain music by selecting the  
following:  
Button  
Function  
Browse  
If available, displays the list of tracks in the  
Now Playing playlist.  
New Search  
This option, which is available under  
browse, allows you to play all tracks or to  
filter the available media into one of the  
below categories.  
Play All  
449  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Button  
Function  
Playlists  
Artist  
Albums  
Songs  
Genres  
Podcasts  
Audio books  
Composers  
A-Z Jump  
This button allows you to choose a specific  
letter to view within the category you are  
browsing.  
Explore Device  
If available, this allows you to browse the  
folders and files on your USB device.  
Select this option to play audio from your  
USB device.  
USB Ports  
Apps  
The system supports the use of certain  
audio apps such as iHeartRadio through a  
USB or Bluetooth enabled device.  
Each app gives you different on-screen  
options depending on the app's content.  
See Apps (page 461).  
and Metadata Information  
The system is capable of hosting nearly  
any digital media player, including iPod,  
iPhone, and most USB drives.  
E211463  
The USB ports are in the center console or  
behind a small access door in the  
instrument panel.  
This feature allows you to plug in USB  
media devices, memory sticks, flash drives  
or thumb drives, and charge devices if they  
support this feature.  
Supported audio formats include MP3,  
WMA, WAV, AAC, and FLAC.  
Supported audio file extensions include  
MP3, WMA, WAV, M4A, M4B, AAC, and  
FLAC.  
450  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Supported USB file systems include: FAT,  
You can direct air through any combination  
of these air vents.  
exFAT, and NTFS.  
SYNC 3 is also able to organize the media  
from your USB device by metadata tags.  
Metadata tags, which are descriptive  
software identifiers embedded in the  
media files, provide information about the  
file.  
Setting the Blower Motor Speed  
Touch up or down to increase or  
decrease the volume of air that  
circulates in your vehicle.  
Setting the Temperature  
Touch up or down on the left-hand  
temperature control to set the left-hand  
temperature.  
Note: This control also adjusts the  
right-hand side temperature when you  
switch off dual zone mode.  
If your indexed media files contain no  
information embedded in these metadata  
tags, SYNC 3 may classify the empty  
metadata tags as unknown.  
SYNC 3 is capable of indexing up to  
50,000 songs per USB device, for up to 10  
devices.  
Touch up or down on the right-hand  
temperature control to set the right-hand  
temperature.  
CLIMATE  
Touch the climate button on the  
touchscreen to access your climate control  
features.  
Note: You can switch temperature units  
between Fahrenheit and Celsius. See  
Settings (page 464).  
Switching Auto Mode On and Off  
Touch the button to switch on  
automatic operation, then set  
the temperature.  
The system adjusts the blower motor  
speed, air distribution, air conditioning  
operation, and outside or recirculated air  
to reach and maintain the temperature you  
have set.  
Touch the button to access  
additional controls for the front  
climate system.  
Switching the Air Conditioning On  
and Off  
Directing the Airflow  
A pop-up appears on the screen  
to display the air conditioning  
options.  
Touch the button to direct  
airflow to the windshield air  
vents and de-mister.  
MAX A/C: Touch the button to activate  
and maximize cooling. The driver and  
passenger temperatures are set to LO,  
recirculated air flows through the  
Touch the button to direct  
airflow to the instrument panel  
air vents.  
instrument panel vents, air conditioning  
automatically turns on and the fan  
automatically adjusts to the highest speed.  
Touch the button to direct  
airflow to the footwell air vents.  
451  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
 
SYNC3  
A/C: Touch to switch the air conditioning  
Switching the Heated Rear  
Window On and Off  
on or off. Use A/C with recirculated air to  
improve cooling performance and  
efficiency.  
Touch the button to clear the  
rear window of thin ice and fog.  
Note: In certain conditions, such as  
maximum defrost, the air conditioning  
compressor may continue to operate even  
though you switch off the air conditioning.  
Switching the Heated Seats On  
and Off  
Touch the button to cycle  
through the various heat  
settings.  
Switching the Climate Control On  
and Off  
Touch the button.  
Switching the Heated Steering  
Wheel On and Off  
Switching the Climate Controlled  
Seats On and Off  
Touch the button.  
Touch the button to cycle  
through the various climate  
Switching Maximum Air  
Conditioning On and Off  
E265282  
controlled seat settings.  
Touch the button for maximum  
Switching Dual Zone Mode On and  
Off  
cooling.  
Touch the button to switch on  
Recirculated air flows through the  
instrument panel air vents, air conditioning  
turns on and the blower motor adjusts to  
the highest speed.  
temperature control for the  
E265280  
right-hand side of the vehicle.  
Switching the Heated Exterior  
Mirrors On and Off  
Switching Maximum Defrost On  
and Off  
Touch the button.  
Touch the button for maximum  
defrosting.  
Switching the Heated Windshield  
On and Off  
Touch the button to clear the  
windshield of thin ice and fog.  
The heated windshield turns off  
after a short period of time.  
Air flows through the windshield air vents,  
and the blower motor adjusts to the  
highest speed.  
You can also use this setting to defog and  
clear the windshield of a thin covering of  
ice.  
Note: To prevent window fogging, you  
cannot select recirculated air when  
maximum defrost is on.  
452  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Note: The heated rear window also turns  
Switching Rear Auto Mode On and  
Off  
on when you select maximum defrost.  
Touch the button to switch on  
rear automatic operation, then  
set the temperature.  
Switching Recirculated Air On and  
Off  
Touch the button to switch  
between outside air and  
recirculated air.  
Switching the Rear Climate  
Controlled Seats On and Off  
The air currently in the passenger  
Touch the button to cycle  
compartment recirculates. This may  
reduce the time needed to cool the interior,  
when used with A/C, and reduce unwanted  
odors from entering your vehicle.  
through the various climate  
E265282  
controlled seat settings.  
Switching the Rear Heated Seats  
On and Off  
Note: Recirculated air may turn off, or  
prevent you from switching on, in all air flow  
modes except MAX A/C to reduce the risk  
of fogging. Recirculation may also turn on  
and off in various air distribution control  
combinations during hot weather to improve  
cooling efficiency.  
Touch the button to cycle  
through the various heat  
settings.  
Switching the Rear Ventilated  
Seats On and Off  
Switching the Ventilated Seats On  
and Off  
Touch the button to cycle  
through the various ventilated  
Touch the button to cycle  
seat settings.  
through the various ventilated  
seat settings.  
PHONE  
Accessing Rear Climate Controls  
Touch the button to access  
WARNING:Driving while distracted  
can result in loss of vehicle control, crash  
and injury. We strongly recommend that  
you use extreme caution when using any  
device that may take your focus off the  
road. Your primary responsibility is the  
safe operation of your vehicle. We  
recommend against the use of any  
hand-held device while driving and  
encourage the use of voice-operated  
systems when possible. Make sure you  
are aware of all applicable local laws  
that may affect the use of electronic  
devices while driving.  
additional controls for the rear  
climate system.  
Rear Climate Control Lock  
Indicator  
Touch the button.  
When on, you can only operate  
E265289  
the rear passenger settings  
through the front controls.  
453  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
 
SYNC3  
Check the compatibility of your device on  
Change Phone  
the regional website.  
Display the list of paired or connected  
devices that you can select.  
Pairing Your Cell Phone for the  
First Time  
Phone Settings  
Change ring tones, alerts or pair another  
phone.  
Go to the settings menu on your cell phone  
and switch Bluetooth on.  
Select the phone option on the  
Do Not Disturb  
feature bar.  
Reject incoming calls and switch ring tones  
and alerts off.  
1. Select Add Phone.  
Note: A prompt alerts you to search for your  
Phone Keypad  
vehicle on your cell phone.  
Directly dial a number.  
2. Select your vehicle on your cell phone.  
Note: A number appears on your cell phone  
Mute  
and on the touchscreen.  
Mute the microphone when in a call or  
voice recognition session.  
3. Confirm that the number on your cell  
phone matches the number on the  
touchscreen.  
Text Messaging  
Setting Text Message Notification  
Note: The touchscreen indicates that you  
have successfully paired your cell phone.  
4. Download the phonebook from your  
iOS  
cell phone when you are prompted.  
1. Go to the settings menu on your cell  
Note: If you pair more than one cell phone,  
use the phone settings to specify the  
primary phone. You can change this setting  
at any time.  
phone.  
2. Select Bluetooth.  
3. Select the information icon to the right  
of your vehicle.  
Using Your Cell Phone  
Recent Call List  
Display and select an entry from a list of  
previous calls.  
4. Switch text message notification on.  
Android  
1. Go to the settings menu on your cell  
phone.  
Contacts  
2. Select Bluetooth.  
3. Select the profiles option.  
4. Select the phone profile.  
5. Switch text message notification on.  
Display a smart search form to look up your  
contacts. Use the List button to  
alphabetically sort your contacts.  
454  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Using Text Messaging  
Menu Item  
Hear It  
Description  
Hear the text message.  
View  
View the text message.  
Call  
Call the sender.  
Reply  
Reply to the text message with a standard text message.  
2. Switch Android Auto off.  
Apple CarPlay (If Equipped)  
NAVIGATION(IF EQUIPPED)  
1. Connect your device to a USB port.  
2. Follow the instructions on the  
Note: For more information, refer to our  
touchscreen.  
website.  
Note: Certain features of the system are  
not available when you are using Apple  
CarPlay.  
Select the navigation option on  
the feature bar.  
Switching Apple CarPlay Off  
Select the settings option on the  
feature bar.  
1. Select Apple CarPlay Preferences.  
2. Switch Apple CarPlay off.  
Android Auto (If Equipped)  
1. Connect your device to a USB port.  
2. Follow the instructions on the  
touchscreen.  
Note: You might need to enable Android  
Auto from the settings menu.  
E297557  
Note: Certain features of the system are  
not available when you are using Android  
Auto.  
A
B
C
D
E
Map view menu.  
Zoom out.  
Zoom in.  
Route guidance menu.  
Destination entry menu.  
Switching Android Auto Off  
Select the settings option on the  
feature bar.  
1. Select Android Auto.  
455  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
 
SYNC3  
Setting a Destination  
Destination Entry Menu  
Item  
Search  
Description  
Enter a destination address.  
Previous Destinations  
Home  
Display and select from a list of previous destinations.  
Set your saved home address as your destination  
Set your saved place of work as your destination.  
Display and select from a list of favorite destinations.  
Work  
Favorites  
You can search by entering all or part of  
Setting a Destination Using the Text  
Entry Screen  
the destination, such as the Address, POI  
Category or Name, Intersection, City,  
Latitude/Longitude, etc. Tips: If you do  
not specify a location, the system will  
use the current vehicle location. You can  
specify a location by address, city, state  
or zip code. For additional search support,  
please visit: support.ford.com.  
Note: Press the button in the top right-hand  
corner of the main map to display estimated  
time of arrival, remaining travel time or  
distance to destination.  
E558  
A
B
Text entry field.  
Automatic suggestions based on  
the text you enter.  
C
D
E
Information icon.  
Search.  
Keyboard settings.  
Note: Select one of the suggestions to  
copy the detail to the text entry field.  
456  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Setting a Destination Using the Map  
Zoom  
Screen  
Display more or less detail on the map.  
Note: You can use pinch gestures to zoom  
in and out. Place two fingers on the screen  
and move them apart to zoom in. Place two  
fingers on the screen and bring them  
together to zoom out.  
Route Guidance  
A
E297559  
A
B
C
Re-center the map.  
Selected location.  
3D map rotation. Swipe left or  
right.  
D
E
Start route guidance.  
Destination name.  
F
E2975
A
Turn indicator. Select to hear the  
last voice prompt.  
Select the location on the map.  
Select Start to begin route guidance.  
B
C
Point of interest.  
Estimated time of arrival,  
distance to destination or time  
to destination.  
Changing the Format of the Map  
Display the map in one of the following  
formats:  
D
E
F
Current road.  
Mute guidance prompts.  
Cancel route guidance.  
A two-dimensional map with the  
direction you are traveling toward the  
top of the screen.  
A two-dimensional map with north  
Note: To change guidance prompt volume,  
turn the volume control when a guidance  
prompt plays.  
toward the top of the screen.  
A three-dimensional map with the  
direction you are traveling toward the  
front.  
457  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Route Guidance Menu  
Menu Item  
Screen View  
Full Map  
Description  
Adjust your map preferences for when route guidance is active.  
View a full screen map when route guidance is active.  
View highway exit information for your current route.  
Highway Exit Info  
Turn List  
View the turn list for your current route. Select a road to avoid  
it.  
Traffic List  
You can find the SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link information  
by pressing this button. This information requires an active  
subscription to SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link. When a route  
is not active, a list of nearby traffic incidents displays. When a  
route is active, you can choose to display a list of traffic nearby  
or on the route.  
Navigation Settings  
Where Am I?  
Cancel Route  
View Route  
Detour  
Adjust navigation settings. See Settings (page 464).  
View information about your current location.  
Cancel route guidance.  
View the entire current route on the map.  
View an alternative route compared to your current one.  
Change the order or remove waypoints.  
Edit Waypoints  
Optimize Order  
Go  
The system determines the order of waypoints for you.  
Go to the next screen and start the new route.  
Note: The system mutes the next and all  
Adjusting the Guidance Prompt  
Volume  
future guidance prompts.  
Adding Waypoints  
You can add a waypoint to a navigation  
route as a destination along your route.  
You can add up to five waypoints.  
1. Select the search option on the map.  
2. Set a destination.  
Turn the volume control when a guidance  
prompt plays to adjust the volume.  
Note: If you have inadvertently adjusted  
the volume to zero, press the turn indicator  
button to play the last voice prompt and  
then adjust the volume to the desired level.  
3. Select Add Waypoint.  
4. Select Go.  
Muting Guidance Prompts  
Select the mute option on the  
screen to mute guidance  
prompts.  
458  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Canceling Route Guidance  
When you have selected a point of interest,  
the location and information appear, such  
as address, phone number and a star  
rating.  
Select the route guidance menu  
option on the active guidance  
screen.  
Press More Information to see a photo,  
a review, a list of services and facilities, the  
average room or meal price and the web  
address. This screen displays the point of  
interest icons.  
Select Cancel Route.  
For restaurants, cityseeker can provide  
information such as star rating, average  
cost, review, handicap access, hours of  
operation, and website address.  
For hotels, cityseeker can provide  
information such as star rating, price  
category, review, check-in and checkout  
times, hotel service icons and website  
address. Hotel service icons include:  
E294817  
Restaurant  
Note: The route guidance menu option is  
always in the bottom right-hand corner of  
the main map.  
Business center  
Handicap facilities  
Laundry  
Refrigerator  
24 hour room service  
Fitness center  
Internet access  
Pool  
cityseeker (If Equipped)  
Note: cityseeker point of interest (POI)  
information is limited to approximately 1,110  
cities (1,049 in the United States, 36 in  
Canada and 15 in Mexico).  
Wi-Fi  
Attractions include nearby landmarks,  
amusement parks, historic buildings and  
more. cityseeker can provide information  
such as star rating, reviews, hour of  
operation and admission price.  
E225487  
cityseeker, when available, is a service that  
provides more information about certain  
points of interest such as restaurants,  
hotels and attractions.  
459  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
The navigation system map data may  
SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link(If  
contain inaccurate or incomplete  
Equipped)  
information due to the passage of time,  
changing circumstances, sources used and  
the nature of collecting comprehensive  
geographic data, any of which may lead to  
incorrect results. Inaccurate speed limit  
information, turn restrictions and other  
road attributes may affect the determined  
route and associated guidance  
Annual navigation map updates are  
available for purchase through your  
dealership. Depending on your purchase  
agreement, you might be eligible for free  
Map update. You can choose to download  
the Map data update onto a USB, order a  
USB, or use Wi-Fi to deliver automatic  
updates. To update your Map data over  
Wi-Fi, your vehicle must be connected to  
a Wi-Fi access point. Map Data files are  
large, so it is highly recommended to  
perform the update when free Wi-Fi is  
available otherwise high data rates may  
apply. For USB updates, free map update  
eligibility, and other details, contact  
dealers at 1-866-462-8837 in the United  
States and Canada or 01-800-557-5539  
in Mexico or visit our local website for more  
information.  
SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link is available  
on vehicles equipped with navigation and  
only in select markets. You must activate  
and subscribe to receive SiriusXM Traffic  
and Travel Link information. It helps you  
locate the best gas prices, find movie  
listings, get current traffic alerts, view the  
weather map, get accurate ski conditions  
and see current sports scores.  
The system calculates a reasonable  
efficient route based on available speed  
limits, traffic, and road conditions. You may  
know a local short cut that is more efficient  
at a given time than the route provided by  
SYNC 3, but you should expect a slight  
difference in minutes or miles with the  
SYNC 3 route.  
Michelin Travel Guide (If Equipped)  
The Michelin travel guide is a service which  
provides additional information about  
certain places of interest, for example  
restaurants, hotels and tourist sites. Points  
of interest that have Michelin travel guide  
information display a button to show you  
more information. Push the button to see  
the additional information. If you have  
paired your phone with the system, you  
can press the phone button to directly  
establish a call with the selected point of  
interest.  
ELECTRIC VEHICLE  
INFORMATION  
Power Flow  
Navigation Map Accuracy and  
The power flow information for  
Updates  
your hybrid vehicle is available  
through the home screen or  
HERE is the digital map provider for the  
navigation application. If you find map data  
errors, you may report them directly to  
evaluates all reported map errors and  
responds with the result of their  
under Apps  
Vehicle Operational States  
Power will flow to or from the front and  
rear wheels depending on operational  
state and drive conditions.  
investigation by e-mail.  
460  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Idling: The vehicle is running and in Park  
Engine Cold: The engine is on because  
(P). The engine and/or the high voltage  
battery are on.  
it is cold. The vehicle returns to electric  
operation once the engine is sufficiently  
warm.  
Electric Driving: The vehicle is running  
and in Drive (D) or Neutral (N). The  
high voltage battery provides power to  
the wheels.  
Hybrid Driving: The vehicle is running  
and in Drive (D) or Neutral (N). The  
engine and the high voltage battery  
provide power to the wheels.  
Battery Charging: The engine is on to  
charge the high-voltage battery. The  
vehicle returns to electric operation  
once the battery is charged.  
Low Gear: The engine is on because  
the vehicle is in low gear. Shift out of  
low gear to return to electric operation.  
Normal Operation: The engine is on to  
optimize vehicle operation. The vehicle  
returns to electric operation when  
possible.  
Engine Braking Active: The engine is on  
to provide increased powertrain  
braking. This can occur when you turn  
on the grade assist feature, when  
speed control is on or when driving with  
your foot off the accelerator pedal.  
Turning off grade assist or speed  
control may allow the vehicle to return  
to electric operation.  
Engine Driving: The vehicle is running  
and in Drive (D) or Neutral (N). The  
engine provides power to the wheels.  
Regenerative Braking: The vehicle is  
running in Drive gear and is slowing  
down. Power captured by the  
regenerative braking system is sent  
back to the high voltage battery.  
Engine On Due To  
The following conditions help to explain  
why the engine is on, and what you can do  
to allow all electric operation.  
Battery Temperature: The engine is on  
due to high or low high-voltage battery  
temperature. This is a normal operating  
condition. The vehicle returns to  
Drive Power: The engine is on due to  
accelerator pedal pressure or speed  
control activation. Reduce pressure on  
the accelerator pedal or switch off the  
speed control to return to full electric  
mode.  
High Speed: The engine is on because  
the vehicle speed exceeds the level for  
full electric operation. Reduce the  
speed to return to electric operation.  
Heater Setting: The engine is on  
because of the heater setting. Reduce  
or turn off the heater setting to return  
to electric operation.  
Neutral Gear: The engine is on because  
the vehicle is in Neutral (N). Shift out  
of neutral gear to return to electric  
operation.  
electric operation when possible.  
Drive Mode: The engine is on due to the  
drive mode selection. Select an  
appropriate drive mode for electric only  
operation.  
APPS  
The system allows you interact with select  
mobile apps while keeping your eyes on  
the road. Voice commands, your steering  
wheel buttons, or a quick tap on your  
touchscreen give you advanced control of  
compatible mobile apps. You can also  
stream your favorite music or podcasts,  
share your time of arrival with friends, and  
keep connected safely.  
461  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
 
SYNC3  
When you start an app through the system  
Using Apps on an Android Device  
for the first time, you could be asked to  
grant certain permissions. You can review  
and change the permissions that you have  
granted at any time when your vehicle is  
not moving. We recommend that you  
check your data plan before using your  
apps through the system. Using them  
could result in additional charges. We also  
recommend that you check the app  
provider's terms and conditions and  
privacy policy before using their app. Make  
sure that you have an active account for  
apps that you want to use through the  
system. Some apps will work with no  
setup. Others require you to configure  
some personal settings before you can use  
them.  
Select the apps option on the  
feature bar.  
1. If your device is connected via USB,  
switch Android Auto off. See Phone  
(page 453).  
2. Pair your device. See Phone (page 453).  
Note: If you close the apps on your device,  
you will not be able to use them through the  
system.  
4. Select Find Mobile Apps.  
Note: The system searches and connects  
to compatible apps that are running on your  
device.  
Note: For more information about available  
apps, visit catalog.ford.com.  
5. Select the app that you want to use on  
the touchscreen.  
Using Apps on an iOS Device  
Note: Mobile Apps on your device use the  
USB port to establish a connection with  
SYNC. Some devices may lose the ability to  
play music over USB when Mobile Apps are  
enabled.  
Select the apps option on the  
feature bar.  
1. If your device is connected via USB,  
switch Apple CarPlay off. See Phone  
(page 453).  
Using Mobile Navigation on an  
Android Device  
2. Connect your device to a USB port or  
1. Connect your device to a USB port.  
3. If prompted to enable CarPlay, select  
2. Switch Android Auto off. See Phone  
Disable.  
(page 453).  
4. Start the apps on your device that you  
3. Switch on Enable Mobile Apps via  
want to use through SYNC.  
Note: If you close the apps on your device,  
you will not be able to use them through the  
system.  
4. Select the apps option on the feature  
bar.  
5. Select the navigation app that you  
5. Select the app that you want to use on  
want to use on the touchscreen.  
the touchscreen.  
Note: When using a navigation app, keep  
Note: Connect your device to a USB port if  
you want to use a navigation app. When  
using a navigation app, keep your device  
unlocked and the app open.  
your device unlocked and the app open.  
462  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Note: In order to use SiriusXM Traffic and  
SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link(If  
Travel Link, your vehicle must have  
navigation.  
Equipped)  
Note: A paid subscription is required to  
access and use these features. Go to  
information.  
click on Coverage map and details for a  
complete listing of all traffic areas covered  
by SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link.  
Note: Neither Sirius nor Ford is responsible  
for any errors or inaccuracies in the SiriusXM  
Traffic and Travel Link services or its use in  
vehicles.  
When you subscribe to SiriusXM Traffic  
and Travel Link, it can help you locate the  
best gas prices, find movie listings, get  
current traffic alerts, view the current  
weather map, get accurate ski conditions  
and see scores to current sports games.  
WARNING:Driving while distracted  
can result in loss of vehicle control, crash  
and injury. We strongly recommend that  
you use extreme caution when using any  
device that may take your focus off the  
road. Your primary responsibility is the  
safe operation of your vehicle. We  
recommend against the use of any  
hand-held device while driving and  
encourage the use of voice-operated  
systems when possible. Make sure you  
are aware of all applicable local laws  
that may affect the use of electronic  
devices while driving.  
Note: SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link may  
not be available in all markets.  
Menu Item  
Action and Description  
Traffic on Route  
Traffic Nearby  
Touch these buttons to identify traffic incidents on your route,  
near your vehicles current location or near any of your favorite  
places, if programmed.  
Fuel Prices  
Movie Listings  
Weather  
Touch this button to view fuel prices at stations close to your  
vehicles location or on an active navigation route.  
Touch this button to view nearby movie theaters and their  
show times, if available.  
Touch this button to view the nearby weather, current weather,  
or the five-day forecast for the chosen area.  
Map  
Select to see the weather map,  
which can show storms, radar  
information, charts and winds.  
463  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Menu Item  
Action and Description  
Select to choose from a listing of  
Area  
weather locations.  
Sports Info  
Touch this button to view scores and schedules from a variety  
of sports. You can also save up to 10 favorite teams for easier  
access. The score automatically refreshes when a game is in  
progress.  
Ski Conditions  
Touch this button to view ski conditions for a specific area.  
Driver Assist(If Equipped)  
SETTINGS  
Select this tile to adjust Driver Assist  
features like Parking Aids, Lane Keeping  
Press the button to enter the  
System, Pedestrian Detection, and  
Auto-Start-Stop.  
settings menu.  
Once you select a tile, press the  
button next to a menu item to  
view an explanation of the  
Vehicle  
Select this tile to adjust vehicle settings  
like windows, alarm, lighting, and MyKey  
settings.  
feature or setting.  
Sound  
FordPass  
Select this tile to adjust the sound settings.  
Select this tile to adjust the FordPass  
settings  
Clock  
General  
Select this tile to adjust the clock settings.  
Select this tile to adjust settings like  
language, measurement units, or to reset  
the system.  
Bluetooth  
Select this tile to switch Bluetooth on and  
off and adjust the settings.  
911 Assist(If Equipped)  
Phone  
Select this tile to switch 911 Assist on and  
Select this tile to connect, disconnect, and  
off.  
manage the connected device settings.  
Automatic Updates  
Audio  
Select this tile to adjust the automatic  
Select this tile to adjust the audio settings.  
update settings.  
Mobile Apps  
Select this tile to adjust permissions,  
enable, disable, and update mobile apps.  
464  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
 
SYNC3  
Display  
Seats (If Equipped)  
Select this tile to adjust display settings  
Select this tile to adjust the lumbar  
like brightness and auto dim.  
function of your seats.  
Charge Settings (If Equipped)  
Message Center (If Equipped)  
Select this tile to adjust the electric vehicle  
Select this tile to view vehicle messages.  
charge settings.  
Personal Profiles (If Equipped)  
Select this tile to adjust recalled memory  
features when using personal profiles.  
Voice Control  
Select this tile to adjust voice control  
settings like command confirmations and  
displayed lists.  
Valet Mode (If Equipped)  
Navigation (If Equipped)  
Select this tile to enable and disable valet  
mode.  
Select this tile to adjust navigation settings  
like map preferences and route guidance.  
Ambient Lighting(If Equipped)  
Multi Contour Seats (If Equipped)  
Select this tile to adjust the position and  
massage function of your multi contour  
seats.  
Select this tile to change the color or  
intensity of the interior lighting.  
465  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
SYNC3 TROUBLESHOOTING  
Voice Recognition  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
The system does not under-  
stand what I am saying.  
You are using the wrong voice commands.  
See Using Voice Recognition (page 435).  
For a complete list of voice commands, refer to our  
Wait for the voice prompt before you speak.  
The system does not under-  
stand the name of a track or  
artist.  
Device limitation. Bluetooth does not support voice  
commands.  
Connect your device to a USB port.  
If you have an iOS device, press and hold the voice  
control button on the steering wheel to use Siri to  
play specific tracks.  
You are using the wrong voice commands.  
See Using Voice Recognition (page 435).  
For a complete list of voice commands, refer to our  
your device.  
Say the name of the track or artist exactly as it  
appears on your device. Spell out any abbreviations  
in the name.  
The song or artist name may have some special char-  
acters that are not being recognized by the system.  
The name contains special characters, for example *,  
- or +.  
Rename the files on your device or use the touch-  
screen to select and play the track.  
466  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
The system does not under-  
stand the name of a contact  
in the phonebook on my  
device and calls the wrong  
contact.  
You are not saying the name exactly as it appears on  
your device.  
Say the first and last name of the contact exactly  
as it appears on your device. Spell out any abbrevi-  
ations in the name.  
The name contains special characters, for example *,  
- or +.  
Rename the contact on your device or use the  
touchscreen to select and call the contact.  
The system does not under-  
stand foreign names of  
contacts in the phonebook  
on my device.  
You are not saying the name exactly as it appears on  
your device.  
Say the first and last name of the contact exactly  
as it appears on your device. The system applies  
phonetic pronunciation rules of the selected  
language to the names of contacts in the phone-  
book on your device. Select the name of the  
contact on the touchscreen and use the Hear it  
option to get an idea of how the system expects  
you to pronounce it.  
The system voice prompts  
and the pronunciation of  
some words does not seem  
to be very accurate.  
Device limitation.  
The system uses text-to-speech technology and  
uses a synthetically generated voice rather than  
pre-recorded human voice.  
USB and Bluetooth Audio  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
I cannot connect my device.  
Device malfunction.  
Disconnect your device. Switch your device off,  
reset it and try again.  
Cable connection issue.  
Correctly connect the cable to your device and the  
vehicle USB port.  
Incompatible cable.  
Use the cable recommended by the manufacturer  
of your device.  
467  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
Incorrect device settings.  
Make sure that your device does not have an auto-  
install program or active security settings.  
Check that your device is not set only to charge.  
Device lock screen enabled.  
Unlock your device before connecting it.  
The system does not recog-  
nize my device.  
Device limitation.  
Do not leave your device in your vehicle during very  
hot or very cold weather conditions.  
Cable connection issue.  
Correctly connect the cable to your device and the  
vehicle USB port.  
Incompatible cable.  
Use the cable recommended by the manufacturer  
of your device.  
The system does not under-  
stand the name of a track or  
artist.  
Device limitation. Bluetooth does not support voice  
commands.  
Connect your device to a USB port.  
If you have an iOS device, press and hold the voice  
control button on the steering wheel to use Siri to  
play specific tracks.  
I cannot stream audio from  
my Bluetooth device.  
Incompatible device.  
Check the compatibility of your device on our  
website.  
Device not connected.  
Pair your device. See Phone (page 453).  
Media player not running.  
The system does not recog-  
nize the music on my device.  
Missing or incorrect audio file metadata, for example  
artist, song title, album or genre.  
Repair the files on your device.  
Corrupt files.  
Repair the files on your device.  
468  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
Copyright protected files.  
Use a device that contains files that are not copy-  
right protected.  
Unsupported file format.  
Repair or convert the files to a supported format.  
See Entertainment (page 441).  
Device indexing required.  
Device lock screen enabled.  
Sometimes I cannot hear a  
track playing on my device.  
Device malfunction.  
Disconnect your device. Switch your device off,  
reset it and try again.  
When I disconnect my iOS  
device the audio volume is  
set to maximum.  
Device limitation.  
Turn the volume down on your device  
The system does not play  
If the system does not play the tracks on your USB device  
the tracks on my USB drive in the correct order, the following information could help:  
in the correct order.  
If you are selecting USB as the audio source when the  
system is still indexing, SYNC plays tracks sorted  
alphabetically by file name in the root directory.  
If you are selecting USB as the audio source after the  
system has finished indexing, SYNC plays all tracks  
sorted alphabetically by the title in the ID3 tag  
regardless of where they are located. SYNC uses the  
file name if the title in the ID3 Tag does not exist.  
If you are selecting the option to play all tracks from  
the browsing menu, SYNC plays all tracks sorted  
alphabetically by the title in the ID3 tag regardless of  
where they are located. SYNC uses the file name if the  
title in the ID3 Tag does not exist.  
If you are selecting a track when using the explore  
device option, SYNC plays tracks sorted alphabetically  
by file name in the folder you have selected. SYNC  
then plays all tracks in any subfolders in the folder you  
have selected.  
469  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Phone  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
Incorrect cell phone settings.  
During a call, I can hear  
excessive background noise.  
Check and adjust the audio settings on your cell  
phone. Refer to your cell phone's user manual.  
During a call, I can hear the  
other person but they  
cannot hear me.  
Cell phone malfunction.  
Switch your cell phone and Bluetooth on and off  
and try again.  
Cell phone microphone muted.  
Unmute your cell phone microphone.  
During a call, I cannot hear  
the other person and they  
cannot hear me.  
System restart required.  
Restart the system. Switch the ignition off and  
open the door. Close the door and lock the vehicle.  
Wait until the touchscreen is off and any illumin-  
ated USB ports are not illuminated. Unlock the  
vehicle, switch the ignition on and try again.  
I cannot download phone-  
book.  
Incompatible cell phone.  
Check the compatibility of your cell phone on our  
website.  
Incorrect cell phone settings.  
Allow the system to retrieve contacts from your  
cell phone. Refer to your cell phone's user manual.  
Incorrect system settings.  
Switch automatic phonebook download on. See  
Settings (page 464).  
Cell phone malfunction.  
A message displays  
Incorrect cell phone settings.  
suggesting that my phone-  
book has downloaded but it  
is empty or it has missing  
contacts.  
Allow the system to retrieve contacts from your  
cell phone. Refer to your cell phone's user manual.  
Check the location of the missing contacts on your  
cell phone. If they are stored on the SIM card, move  
them to the cell phone memory.  
Incorrect system settings.  
Switch automatic phonebook download on. See  
Settings (page 464).  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
Incompatible cell phone.  
I cannot connect my cell  
phone.  
Check the compatibility of your cell phone on our  
website.  
Cell phone malfunction.  
Switch your cell phone off, reset it and try again.  
Install the latest cell phone firmware.  
Delete your device from system and delete SYNC  
from your device and try again.  
Switch automatic phonebook download off. See  
Settings (page 464).  
Text messaging does not  
work.  
Switch text message notifications on. See Phone  
(page 453).  
Incompatible cell phone.  
Check the compatibility of your cell phone on our  
Cell phone malfunction.  
Switch your cell phone off, reset it and try again.  
I cannot hear text messages.  
Device message sharing is not enabled.  
Check the permissions on your device to ensure  
text message sharing is enabled.  
Incompatible cell phone.  
Check the compatibility of your cell phone on our  
website.  
471  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Navigation(If Equipped)  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
Incorrect entry method.  
Enter the street name with the country.  
You are using the wrong coordinates format.  
I cannot enter a street name  
when I am abroad.  
The system does not recog-  
nize coordinates.  
Use the format ##. #####, ##. ##### (for N/S ,  
E/W). Add a minus before coordinates if the  
direction is West and keep a positive value if the  
direction is East, for example 12.5412 means East  
and -12.5412 means West.  
472  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Apps  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
Incompatible device.  
The system cannot find any  
apps.  
You will need an Android device with OS 4.3 or  
higher or an iOS device with iOS 8.0 or higher. Pair  
and connect your Android device to find AppLink  
compatible apps. Connect your iOS device to a  
USB port or pair and connect using Bluetooth.  
I have a compatible device  
and it is correctly connected  
but the system still cannot  
find any apps.  
AppLink compatible apps not installed on your device.  
Download and install the latest version of the app.  
AppLink compatible apps not running on your device.  
Start the apps to allow the system to find them  
and make sure you sign in to any apps if required.  
Incorrect app settings.  
Check and adjust the app settings on your device  
and allow SYNC to access the app if required.  
I have a compatible device,  
it is correctly connected and  
my apps are running but the  
system still cannot find any  
apps.  
Apps failed to fully close.  
Restart the apps and try again.  
If you have an Android device with apps that have  
an exit or quit option, use this and then restart the  
apps. Alternatively, use the force stop option in the  
settings menu on your device.  
If you have an iOS device with iOS 7.0 or higher, tap  
the home button on your device twice and then  
swipe the app upward to close it.  
I have an Android device  
that is correctly connected,  
I have restarted my apps  
and they are running but the  
system still cannot find  
them.  
An issue on some older versions of the Android oper-  
ating system could result in apps not being found.  
Switch Bluetooth off and on again to force the  
system to reconnect to your device.  
473  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
Cable connection issue.  
I have an iOS device that is  
correctly connected, I have  
restarted my apps and they  
are running but the system  
still cannot find them.  
Disconnect the cable from your device, wait for a  
moment and then connect it again to force the  
system to reconnect to your device.  
I have an Android device  
running a media app which  
the system has found but I  
cannot hear the sound or  
the sound is very quiet.  
Device volume is low.  
Turn the volume up on your device.  
I have an Android device  
running a number of  
compatible apps but the  
system cannot find all of  
them.  
Device limitation. Some Android devices have a limited  
number of Bluetooth ports that apps can use to  
connect. If you have more apps running on your device  
than the number of available Bluetooth ports, the  
system cannot find all of them.  
Close some of the apps to allow the system to find  
those that you want to use.  
474  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Wi-Fi Connectivity  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
Password error.  
Enter the correct network password.  
Weak network signal.  
I cannot connect to a Wi-Fi  
network.  
Move your vehicle closer to the Wi-Fi hotspot or to  
a place where the network signal is not obstructed.  
Multiple access points in range with the same SSID.  
Use a unique name for your SSID. Do not use the  
default name unless it contains a unique identifier,  
for example as part of the MAC address.  
The Wi-Fi connection  
disconnects after successful  
connection.  
Weak network signal.  
Move your vehicle closer to the Wi-Fi hotspot or to  
a place where the network signal is not obstructed.  
I am close to a Wi-Fi hotspot  
but the network signal  
strength is weak.  
Obstructed network signal.  
If your vehicle has a heated windshield, position  
your vehicle so that the windshield is not facing the  
Wi-Fi hotspot.  
If your vehicle has metallic tinting on the windows  
but not on the windshield, position your vehicle so  
that the windshield is facing the Wi-Fi hotspot or  
open the windows that are facing the hotspot.  
If your vehicle has metallic tinting on the windows  
and the windshield, open the windows that are  
facing the hotspot.  
If your vehicle is in a garage and you have the  
garage door closed, open the garage door.  
I cannot see a network in the  
list of available networks  
that I expect to see.  
Hidden network.  
Make the network visible and try again.  
475  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Resolution  
System limitation.  
SYNC does not provide a Wi-Fi hotspot at this time.  
I cannot see SYNC when I  
search for Wi-Fi networks on  
my cell phone or other  
device.  
Software downloads take  
too long.  
Weak network signal  
Move your vehicle closer to the Wi-Fi hotspot or to  
a place where the network signal is not obstructed.  
Wi-Fi hotspot in high demand or has a slow Internet  
connection.  
Use a more reliable Wi-Fi hotspot.  
The system seems to  
connect to a Wi-Fi network  
and the signal strength is  
excellent but the software  
does not update.  
No software update available.  
Wi-Fi network requires a subscription or acceptance  
of terms and conditions.  
Test the connection using another device. If the  
network requires a subscription or acceptance of  
terms and conditions, contact the network service  
provider.  
Personal Profiles(If Equipped)  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Solution  
You have not set up Personal Profiles.  
You entered an invalid profile.  
You did not select a memory button when prompted.  
I cannot create a profile.  
You did not have the ignition on or in park (P), or you  
shifted out park (P) when creating a profile.  
Personal Profiles has been switched off.  
You did not select the lock button on the remote control.  
The remote control selected was already associated with  
another profile and the system declined to overwrite.  
I cannot link a remote  
control.  
The system performed a profile recall when linking a  
remote control.  
You did not have the ignition on or in park (P), or you  
shifted out park (P) when creating a profile.  
476  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing  
SYNC3  
Symptom  
Possible Cause and Solution  
You are using the old linking method.  
Personal Profiles does not support your unsaved settings.  
My personalized settings do A different personal profile is active.  
not save.  
Another user changed the settings for the wrong personal  
profile.  
You did not create a personal profile.  
Personal Profiles is turned off.  
The profile you requested is already active.  
You did not link the memory button you are using to a  
profile.  
My profile will not recall.  
You did not link the remote control you are using to a  
profile.  
You are using the wrong remote control.  
You are pressing a button other than the unlock or remote  
start on a linked remote control.  
You deleted the personal profile.  
My preset positions recall,  
but my profile does not.  
You switched the personal profiles off.  
The vehicle is in motion.  
My profile recalls but my  
preset positions do not.  
The preset positions are the same as the guest or previ-  
ously active profile.  
Unlink and relink your remote control in the Personal  
Profiles menu. You may need to see your authorized dealer.  
I lost a remote control.  
I lost all profiles.  
You erased and reprogrammed the remote controls. This  
could happen if you let a dealership add a new remote  
control to replace a lost one.  
Someone performed a master reset without your know-  
ledge.  
477  
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing