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Over-the-air Updates

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Old Sep 5, 2020 | 02:39 PM
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Over-the-air Updates

I saw a mention of OTA updates in another thread but it was venturing off topic so thought I'd make a new one. For over-the-air updates, are they primarily for non-critical systems such as SYNC or entertainment? Do modules that interface to engine/mechanical operation get updates over the air as well? Seems like if the Ford engineering team made a small mistake in an update it could potentially cripple a large number of vehicles if that was the case. Hopefully updates affecting drive systems are reserved for dealer visits or via a more traditional method.
 
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Old Sep 5, 2020 | 05:33 PM
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I am not sure but I would bet it is just simple things like Radio and SYNC stuff.
Anything else they can charge $$ for
 
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Old Sep 5, 2020 | 07:04 PM
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Strictly sync updates.
 
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Old Sep 5, 2020 | 07:32 PM
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https://corporate.ford.com/articles/...e-updates.html

I got the impression that any module could be updated remotely which would not limit it to SYNC or infotainment systems.
 
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Old Sep 5, 2020 | 07:42 PM
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Originally Posted by alumizilla
... Seems like if the Ford engineering team made a small mistake in an update it could potentially cripple a large number of vehicles if that was the case. ...
There always is that lurking problem: things need to be done right. If my truck were disabled by an OTA propagated error I'd rather it happen at home. Tesla has clearly oversold it's autonomous software features but I haven't heard of an OTA update crippling the fleet. Did I miss one?
 
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Old Sep 5, 2020 | 07:49 PM
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Originally Posted by alumizilla
I saw a mention of OTA updates in another thread but it was venturing off topic so thought I'd make a new one. For over-the-air updates, are they primarily for non-critical systems such as SYNC or entertainment? Do modules that interface to engine/mechanical operation get updates over the air as well? Seems like if the Ford engineering team made a small mistake in an update it could potentially cripple a large number of vehicles if that was the case. Hopefully updates affecting drive systems are reserved for dealer visits or via a more traditional method.
Currently, SYNC 3 updates are only for the SYNC 3 system.

When SYNC 4 hits the market, the OTA updates will be for the SYNC 4 system as well as other vehicle systems.

Do you update your the OS or apps on your cell phone or computer?

Do you also worry about your banking app?

You’re really worrying too much.
 
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Old Sep 5, 2020 | 07:55 PM
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Originally Posted by wrvond
Strictly sync updates.
The updates are bumper to bumper coverage for all modules. These full package OTA updates require Sync3 and the WiFi modem. This was presented last year to dealers, you will see updates as they are downloaded in Fordpass.
 
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Old Sep 5, 2020 | 10:47 PM
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Originally Posted by alumizilla
I saw a mention of OTA updates in another thread but it was venturing off topic so thought I'd make a new one. For over-the-air updates, are they primarily for non-critical systems such as SYNC or entertainment? Do modules that interface to engine/mechanical operation get updates over the air as well? Seems like if the Ford engineering team made a small mistake in an update it could potentially cripple a large number of vehicles if that was the case. Hopefully updates affecting drive systems are reserved for dealer visits or via a more traditional method.
I'm going to assume they don't update everyone at the exact same time.

Update some people, no complaints? Send another batch. Still no complaints, send another batch. Oh update 3 group has some issues, but not 1 or 2? Let's look in to it
 
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Old Sep 6, 2020 | 03:14 PM
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Originally Posted by GABAR
Currently, SYNC 3 updates are only for the SYNC 3 system.

When SYNC 4 hits the market, the OTA updates will be for the SYNC 4 system as well as other vehicle systems.

Do you update your the OS or apps on your cell phone or computer?

Do you also worry about your banking app?

You’re really worrying too much.
I don't drive my cell phone down the interstate with my family in it!

Thanks for the information
 
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Old Sep 7, 2020 | 03:20 AM
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So I have an early build 6.7. I had the dealer reflash the TCM couple of months back. It cured the problems. Lately the transmission started shifting harshly again. Was considering reseting the adaptive learning etc. Turned my truck off. One hour later right as I go to leave Ford Pass notified me of an software update and to turn the vehicle on to complete the update. Oddly the transmission is nowshifting better so far. So I don't know for sure if they flashed the TCM remotely but it does say on the Ford OTA information website that they have the ability to update any module remotely. If they didn't flash it with the update then my 10 speed gremlin fell out a few miles back.
 
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Old Sep 7, 2020 | 08:12 AM
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Originally Posted by SuperchargedPSD
So I have an early build 6.7. I had the dealer reflash the TCM couple of months back. It cured the problems. Lately the transmission started shifting harshly again. Was considering reseting the adaptive learning etc. Turned my truck off. One hour later right as I go to leave Ford Pass notified me of an software update and to turn the vehicle on to complete the update. Oddly the transmission is nowshifting better so far. So I don't know for sure if they flashed the TCM remotely but it does say on the Ford OTA information website that they have the ability to update any module remotely. If they didn't flash it with the update then my 10 speed gremlin fell out a few miles back.
That is super good to know !
 
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