Can the stock XLT headunit be upgraded to the Sync3 ?

[Eagle11]

Is the upgraded head unit just software or is the actual screen different too?

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[bombast]

The problem isn't the software or the screen, its the hardware. The Sync3 system has the power and correct modules to support all of its features, while the regular system offloads those tasks to your cellphone to save a buck on chips and such.

So no, you're not going to be able to upgrade the software to Sync3.

 

[mamboman777]

The problem isn't the software or the screen, its the hardware. The Sync3 system has the power and correct modules to support all of its features, while the regular system offloads those tasks to your cellphone to save a buck on chips and such.

So no, you're not going to be able to upgrade the software to Sync3.

Possible to put an entire lariat head unit into it, though, right?

 

[mav_can]

Is the upgraded head unit just software or is the actual screen different too?

*According to Ford literature* the actual screen is different as well.

The Lariat is listed with a capacitive screen that is technologically very similar to a phone’s touchscreen. While the XL and XLT would presumably get resistive, which has come a very very long way in the past 10 years but ultimately it will be a little less responsive and will lack “true” swipe capability. Benefits of XL/XLT screen is that it will work with gloves on while Lariat will not unless you buy special gloves.

I personally very much do not see this as a reason to upgrade to Lariat, I have experience with both types of screens and resistive is absolutely fine. Similarly the “Sync 3” on the Lariat is not even full Sync 3 as mentioned in different places (it lacks features like nav, which you’ll be using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for). But it’s important to be informed of course.

 

[bombast]

Possible to put an entire lariat head unit into it, though, right?

I don't see why it wouldn't be technically feasible. That said, I have not attempted this kind of work on modern vehicles. I imagine its a bit more involved than cramming CD players in 80s vehicles. Probably pretty far into the "You should have just ponied up for the Lariat in the first place" territory.

 

[mamboman777]

I don't see why it wouldn't be technically feasible. That said, I have not attempted this kind of work on modern vehicles. I imagine its a bit more involved than cramming CD players in 80s vehicles. Probably pretty far into the "You should have just ponied up for the Lariat in the first place" territory.

I agree. For me, I plan on using Android auto. The only things that it seems like I'm missing out on are voice commands and active nose cancelling. For me...meh.

I'm thrilled Android auto is available at this trim, though. I've used it on rentals and really liked it.

 

[MavrickEcoBoost]

I don't see why it wouldn't be technically feasible. That said, I have not attempted this kind of work on modern vehicles. I imagine its a bit more involved than cramming CD players in 80s vehicles. Probably pretty far into the "You should have just ponied up for the Lariat in the first place" territory.

I work in parts for Ford and I can tell you that one thing ive noticed about Ford is how many different harnesses they use for the audio stacks. Whether it be speaker systems or the screens. For example on my Ranger there are almost 25 harnesses just for the speaker system for the three trims based on the options it could have. Don't see this Maverick changing the narrative. With the additional speakers for the B&O, and the charging for the USB it'll have so many options that I don't think you could match the higher unit with the lower harness. And if you mess it up the entire system is running on Sync. Remote Start, Engine controls, 4G, etc.

 

[Jmav2152]

I believe the xl/xlt models don't have the apim or whatever it's called needed for sync3. So you could I guess upgrade but you are missing alot of required hardware.

 

[Eagle11]

I believe the xl/xlt models don't have the apim or whatever it's called needed for sync3. So you could I guess upgrade but you are missing alot of required hardware.

There is a thread on this very subject and a list of what is needed to get it to work.

 

[uh50]

There is a thread on this very subject and a list of what is needed to get it to work.

Here is a good thread to read about swapping stock audio system to Sync 3/4 initiated by MTC members zackmd1 and propp2531. These guys put a lot of effort into the upgrade and were kind enough to share it with all of us. :
How To: Sync 3/4 swap for non Sync 3 XL/XLT

 

[Eagle11]

Here is a good thread to read about swapping stock audio system to Sync 3/4 initiated by MTC members zackmd1 and propp2531. These guys put a lot of effort into the upgrade and were kind enough to share it with all of us. :
How To: Sync 3/4 swap for non Sync 3 XL/XLT

Thanks, I'm aware of this.

 

[Micheal]

The only things that it seems like I'm missing out on are voice commands and active nose cancelling.

I think the "new car smell wears off in a couple of months.

 

[j1truck]

*According to Ford literature* the actual screen is different as well.

The Lariat is listed with a capacitive screen that is technologically very similar to a phone’s touchscreen. While the XL and XLT would presumably get resistive, which has come a very very long way in the past 10 years but ultimately it will be a little less responsive and will lack “true” swipe capability. Benefits of XL/XLT screen is that it will work with gloves on while Lariat will not unless you buy special gloves.

I personally very much do not see this as a reason to upgrade to Lariat, I have experience with both types of screens and resistive is absolutely fine. Similarly the “Sync 3” on the Lariat is not even full Sync 3 as mentioned in different places (it lacks features like nav, which you’ll be using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for). But it’s important to be informed of course.

Is it me or somehow my base Lariat has pretty crappy screen as well. Glare and other things make it really hard to see and dangerous when back on up. It seems the screen location placement is the issue since the driver is looking at an angle more than directly. My kids in the back and see well but not me. Now I am loooking to upgrade the screen as well.

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