Support>Lincoln Technology>Navigation>What do I do if my SYNC Navigation is unable to find a GPS signal?

What should I do if my SYNC Navigation is unable to find a GPS signal?

If you see an "X," a crossed-out symbol, or a similar symbol over the GPS icon of the navigation system, you can use the troubleshooting tips found in this article.

Notes:

  • The signal loss symbol may display in an area with poor GPS access, such as parking garages or other covered areas.
  • If this icon is displaying continuously, you are not in a poor GPS access area, and the map is not showing the vehicle in an accurate location, this likely means an issue has occurred and troubleshooting is required.

Lost GPS Symbol Troubleshooting

Important: Ensure that your vehicle is on and running in a well-ventilated area, and is in Park (P). Confirm that you are not parked under structures or other objects that could block the connection from your vehicle to the GPS satellite.

Choose your SYNC®* generation from the drop-down options below for possible troubleshooting steps.

Note: If you need assistance determining the generation of your SYNC system, select the first drop-down option. 

Identifying Your Vehicle's SYNC Generation

Select a resource in the table below to help you identify your vehicle's SYNC generation.

ResourceInstructions
SYNC and Navigation Updates page

Either:

Your SYNC generation will appear on the right side of the page under the “SYNC Current Version” heading.

SYNC Visual Reference GuideView example images of SYNC generations that Lincoln has offered.

SYNC 4, and SYNC 3

To troubleshoot the GPS connection on your SYNC 4 or SYNC 3-equipped vehicle:

  1. Turn the Location setting off and back on within the vehicle:
    1. Tap Settings on your vehicle's SYNC screen. 
    2. Select Lincoln Connect.®** 
    3. Tap Connectivity Settings.
    4. Toggle the Location Off and then On. 
  2. Perform a key cycle.
    1. Turn the vehicle off.
    2. Open the door.
    3. Exit the vehicle.
    4. Lock the vehicle.
    5. Shut the door.
    6. Step at least 5 feet away from your vehicle for 2 minutes.
  3. Perform a module reset.  

If the issue continues as you drive to different locations in the future, make an appointment with your preferred Lincoln Retailer.

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch®

To troubleshoot the GPS connection on your SYNC with MyLincoln Touch-equipped vehicle:

  1. Perform a key cycle.
    1. Turn the vehicle off.
    2. Open the door.
    3. Exit the vehicle.
    4. Lock the vehicle.
    5. Shut the door.
    6. Step at least 5 ft away from your vehicle for 2 minutes.
  2. Perform a module reset.  

If the issue continues as you drive to different locations in the future, make an appointment with your preferred Lincoln Retailer.

SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation

To troubleshoot the GPS connection on your SYNC with Voice-Activated Navigation-equipped vehicle, perform a module reset.  

If the issue continues as you drive to different locations in the future, make an appointment with your preferred Lincoln Retailer.

Additional Information

Why am I getting a "Navigation SD card fault" message on SYNC with MyLincoln Touch?
How do I perform a SYNC Module Reset?
How do I perform a SYNC Master Reset?

*Don't drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear.  Not all features are compatible with all phones.

**Lincoln Connect®, the Lincoln Way® App., and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (See Lincoln Way Terms for details). Connected service and features depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected service excludes Wi-Fi® hotspot.