How do I play music with SYNC using a USB?
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How do I play music with SYNC using a USB?

When a device containing music files is plugged into the vehicle's USB port, SYNC®* will attempt to read the contents and prepare the music to be played.

Once SYNC has prepared the music or other audio playback files, they can be played using the voice command “USB” or by using the SYNC menu options.

Notes:

  • SYNC will index any supported music files found and attempt to build speech commands from the indexed music files.
  • Refer to the vehicle's Owner's Manual for specific playing instructions using the SYNC screen, as they vary by SYNC generation and vehicle model/year.
  • See SYNC Voice Commands for specific information on USB playback and voice commands.

Using a USB With SYNC

Select from the dropdowns below to view requirements for playing music from a USB or troubleshooting:

Requirements

  • Metadata must be accurate.
  • Supported music file types are .mp3, .wma, .wav, and .aac.
  • SYNC 3 vehicles can use USB drives that are formatted to FAT32 or exFAT for media playback.
    • Only software updates need to be formatted to exFAT for SYNC 3. 
  • For SYNC Gen 1, Gen 1.1, and Gen 2 vehicles, the USB flash drive must be formatted as FAT32 and non-password protected for music or other audio playback.

See Formatting a USB Drive for additional formatting help, if needed. 

Instructions

Important: Playing music using a USB will vary by vehicle model and SYNC system. If the instructions below do not work as you walk through them, refer to your Owner's Manual.

SYNC 4

On your SYNC screen:

  1. Select Audio. 
  2. Insert the USB drive.

  3. Select Source. 

    Note: The drive may not be available until the files have been indexed. If a message displays, wait for the message to dismiss itself. 

  4. Change/select the source as USB. 

SYNC will read the USB and play any compatible audio files. 

Troubleshooting

Media player device issues (iPod, Zune, etc.)

  1. Power cycle your device.
  2. Use the original cord or a known working aftermarket cord. 
  3. Try another device.
  4. Use a basic USB drive for troubleshooting.
  5. Place some supported files on the USB drive and verify the operation.

If these troubleshooting steps do not resolve the concern, perform a SYNC Master/Factory Reset.

SYNC is not playing music in the correct order

  • Playlists can be created using media players such as Windows Media Player or iTunes.
  • For specific program questions, use the software developer's support website.
  • Use your device’s instructions to ensure you have the correct settings for USB music or other audio playback.

If you need further assistance, contact a Lincoln Concierge at 1-800-521-4140 or by selecting Live Chat at the bottom right of lincoln.com/support.

*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.