So after lurking around here since buying my 2015 XLT Supercrew with 2.7L engine, I decided to spend some my recent raise on an upgrade to a 2016.

I have enjoyed my truck, but had made some compromises in my wish list to fit the budget at the time.

I would have loved to get a 2.7L in the 2016 Lariat Supercrew I just ordered, but that isn't an option with the 502A option package. I test drove a 3.5L with the max tow package, and was actually surprised at the ride of the suspension, in a good way. As for the engine, it didn't seem to have that "kick in the pants" that the 2.7L has. It still felt strong - but wasn't as remarkable.

All that said, I have one big question that my dealer wasn't geek enough to answer.... When Sync3 was announced, all the info at the time indicated that Apple Carplay and google equivalent would be added via a future firmware upgrade. I didn't see any Carplay options in Sync3 on the truck I demo'd. Has anyone received good info on the status of Carplay compatibility being added, if it hasn't already?

Anyone else gone from 2.7L to 3.5L that can share their experiences?

Thanks!

-- Grimmwit

 

I'm kind of wary about this thing. Ford said it will be just be an update to all 2016 Sync 3 owner. But GM said the same thing for 15' owners with Intellilink, for them to come back and say that a module needs to be installed and it's now 16' only and some models wont' get it until 17. Sync 3 is newer than Intellilink, so maybe Ford actually thought ahead on it, but since apparently this bait and switch tactic is legal, I would say don't 100% count on getting it.

 

Thanks for your reply. Definitely wouldn't be the first time technology plans changed.....

I just found this on the Ford site -
https://www.ford.com/technology/sync/

160. Available feature. Don’t drive while distracted. Use voice-operated systems when possible; don’t use handheld devices while driving. Apple CarPlay is available on 2017 models with SYNC 3; owners of 2016 models with SYNC 3 are required to perform a software upgrade and purchase a hardware upgrade. Requires phone with compatible version of Apple iOS and active data service. SYNC does not control Apple CarPlay while in use. Apple is solely responsible for their functionality. Message and data rates may apply. Apple CarPlay,tm iPad,® iPod,® iPhone,® iTunes,® and Siri are trademarks of Apple Inc.

 

I don't have any knowledge about your SYNC3 question, but I am curious about your impressions between the 2.7L and the 3.5L. That has not been my impression when comparing the two on equal footing. If the 2.7L had lower rear end, or a lighter body, etc., then it would not be an apples-to-apples comparison. I've driven both, and while the 2.7L is way peppy (to say it mildly), the 3.5L is definitely a much stronger motor.

 

Ok so Ford is already saying that a hardware module will be needed and is obviously including the ability to add this module onto existing systems (GM refused to do that, and the third party company MVI has been making hack arounds for that, but it'll cost you 700-1300$). So the up in the air will be the shop time Ford will charge. They aren't saying it's included or being offered, so I would say expect 300-500$ for hardware and probably 2-4 hours of book time (remove the radio, install plug and play, re-install radio, then flash radio with new programming). I would say maybe 500-800$? I guess we'll see. Still, for Ford to support it end to end instead of having to use a company like MVI (where future updates can break your very expensive hacked system) 800$ for the ability would be worth it for the way I use my phone. As long as you're ok with a potentially salty activation cost, I'd say go for it, knowing you'll get it, it just might not be cheap.

 

My understanding is Carplay would would updated on F150 Sync3 later this year.

Josh

 

That upgrade for the '16 model year won't be cheap. It will poach sales of the Nav system, so Ford will get their money either way.

I've never used ApplePlay, but I'm curious if it will be worth it. Stync 3 is still buggy, so adding another OS seems like doubling the chances of something shatting itself.

 

My 2.7L has the 3.55 rear end, as did the 3.5L I test drove Sunday. I only had one chance to kind of romp on it, so I can't say my test was thorough by any means.

I placed an order Sunday; hope to have it mid-July. With luck by the end of July, I'll be better able to judge the differences.