Support>SYNC>Getting Started with SYNC>How do I connect Apple CarPlay to SYNC?

How do I connect Apple CarPlay to SYNC?

You can set up Apple CarPlay with SYNC by connecting your iPhone (or iPad) to SYNC via USB or Bluetooth if enabled. 

Connecting Apple CarPlay to SYNC

Select your SYNC generation from the drop-down options below to learn how to connect to Apple CarPlay. If you need assistance determining the generation of your SYNC system, select the first drop-down option.

Important:

  • Ensure your vehicle is on and running in a well-ventilated area and in Park (P).
  • A recent device update may impact its connection to your vehicle. If you are experiencing pairing issues after following the steps below, try turning your phone off, waiting 60 seconds, and turning it back on.

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

If your phone is already paired to your SYNC system, then:

  1. Tap Settings on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  2. Select the Phone List setting.
  3. Choose your iPhone from the displayed list.
  4. Select Enable.

If your phone is not already paired to your SYNC system, then:

  1. Tap Phone on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  2. Select Add Phone. 
  3. Go to Settings on your iPhone. 
  4. Tap Bluetooth. 
  5. Select your vehicle name on your iPhone's discovery list.  A Bluetooth Pairing Request pop-up will appear on your iPhone with a PIN. 
  6. Confirm that the PIN matches the code displayed on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  7. Tap Yes when prompted. 
  8. Select Pair on your iPhone. "Allow Contacts and Favorites Sync?" will appear on your iPhone. 
  9. Tap Allow to download phone contacts to your vehicle's SYNC system. After a few seconds, "Use CarPlay with SYNC 4?" will appear on your iPhone. 
  10. Select Use CarPlay.  "Would you like to enable CarPlay?" will appear on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  11. Tap the Enable button. "Connecting to Apple CarPlay" will appear and Apple CarPlay will launch on your SYNC screen.

Once the connection is made and the Terms and Conditions are accepted, Apple CarPlay will automatically display on your SYNC 4 touchscreen.

SYNC 3

To enable Apple CarPlay with SYNC 3:

  1. Enable Siri in your iPhone settings.

    Note: Refer to your phone's operating manual or the manufacturer's website as instructions vary by model.
     
  2. Plug your iPhone into the vehicle's USB port with an Apple Lightning cable.
  3. Tap Continue on the pop-up window on your vehicle's SYNC screen.
  4. Select Agree to accept the Terms & Conditions on the next pop-up window.
  5. Tap Allow on your iPhone for SYNC 3 to complete the Apple CarPlay setup.

Once the connection is made and the Terms and Conditions are accepted, Apple CarPlay will automatically display on your SYNC 3 touchscreen.

Additional Information

How do I disable Apple CarPlay with SYNC?
Which Lincoln vehicles are compatible with Apple CarPlay?
What do I do if I am having issues with Apple CarPlay?

*Compatible Android or iPhone with compatible active data plan and software required. Wireless use of Android Auto requires a compatible Android 11.0+ phone and compatible active data plan. Check g.co/androidauto/requirements for compatibility. SYNC® /Lincoln Digital Experience does not control third-party products while in use. Third parties are solely responsible for their respective functionality.

**Do not 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.

iPhone, iPad, Apple CarPlay, and Siri are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.