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How do I use text messaging with SYNC?

You can view, send, or delete text messages by using the SYNC®* touchscreen in your vehicle. For general tips and managing notifications, see the steps below.

Note: These are general steps. For specific information or further assistance, refer to your phone's user manual or contact your cellphone provider.

Using Text Messaging

Select one of the drop-down options below to learn more.

General Tips

  • Your phone must have text messaging capability to use this SYNC feature.
  • Before text messaging can be enabled, your phone must be paired to SYNC.
  • SYNC will not download text messages that have already been read.

Disabling Text Messages Notifications

To disable text messaging, go into your phone settings and change that permission setting.

Note: The phone controls if it sends text messages to SYNC. Instructions for this setting will vary per phone. If you need assistance, speak with your phone's manufacturer.

SYNC 4 Text Message Notifications

To toggle text message notifications on and off for SYNC 4 using your phone:

iOS®

Follow these steps:

  1. Select the Settings menu, then Bluetooth®.
  2. Choose the Information icon to the right of your vehicle.
  3. Toggle Show Notifications On or Off.

Android™

Follow these steps:

  1. Select the Settings menu, then Bluetooth.
  2. Choose the Profiles option.
  3. Select the phone profile.
  4. Toggle Show Notifications On or Off.

SYNC 3 Text Message Notifications

To turn text message notifications on or off with your SYNC 3 system:

  1. Tap Settings.
  2. Select Phone.
  3. Choose Text Message Notification. 
  4. Toggle the text message notification On or Off.

Note: Unread text message notifications will activate when the phone is paired and the vehicle is being driven.

Removing Text Messages

SYNC 4, or SYNC 3

To remove text messages from your SYNC screen:

  1. Delete the desired message from your phone.

  2. Press the Refresh button on the text message screen located in the SYNC screen's top right-hand corner.

    Note: SYNC will not store text messages. Messages will only be available if the device has an active connection.

SYNC Gen 1, Gen 1.1, or Gen 2 (SYNC with MyLincolnTouch)

To remove text messages from your SYNC screen:

  1. Perform a Master/Factory reset on your SYNC system.
  2. Delete the messages from your phone.
  3. Pair your phone.
  4. Download your phone book and text messages.

Note: SYNC downloads and saves the entire text message history automatically.

Additional Information

How do I use 911 Assist with SYNC?
How do I find my vehicle's ESN?
How do I pair my phone with SYNC?
What do I do if I cannot send text messages using SYNC?

*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.

iOS is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

The Bluetooth word mark is a trademark of the Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

Android is a trademark of Google LLC.