Hi I’m new here just bought a 2015 f150 xl work truck bare bones model. It doesn’t have sync and I’m wondering if it can be added. I heard a harness must be made but not sure if I read correct. Anyone with experience out there?

 

Welcome.

 

If it was my decision, I would go with an aftermarket unit. Much better bang for the buck.

Crutchfield is a great place to get ideas.

https://www.crutchfield.ca/car/outfitmycar/mycar.aspx

There is probably a lot of info here as well.

https://www.f150forum.com/f30/

 

Id rather go aftermarket but I’m not sure what the sync module does in the truck. Mine is a base XL only thing it has is cruise control. I was thinking about changing the steering wheel since it’s pretty worn anyway and to add volume control. Would sync be needed to have radio controls? Also maybe down the line add auto climate since I’ve been spoiled with that in my previous rides…

 

I can't speak to replacing the steering wheel to get controls, but I had a 2015 and removed the crappy sync 1 and installed a new head unit and the PAC RPK4-FD2201 Dash and Wiring Kit from Crutchfield. they'll put it all together in a package for you including making up the wiring harness for you for $25. They were awesome to deal with, and decent prices. Even installed a rear backup camera (Crux CUB-15} in the tailgate that looked nearly OEM.

 

Do your sync 1 is totally removed? Do your volume controls work on your steering wheel with the new head unit?

 

I replaced the Sync3 unit in mine with Kenwood double din. I used the iDatalink interface and dash kit to keep use of my steering wheel controls, stock backup camera, and large dash volume ****. It works great. The only thing I no longer have working and which I don't miss at all is the compass in the instrument panel. It no longer shows direction properly. I use Google Maps when traveling so its not biggie anyway.

Here is a video I refer people to when looking to replace Sync with aftermarket.

 

I think if you do some research on this you will decide it is too expensive. The DATC system uses a different HVAC housing, wiring harnesses, ducting, FCIM, and adds two more temperature sensors.

 

I removed the old CD player, Sync module, and old 4-inch display. I used this kit from Pac Audio and a Sony XAV-AX6000 head unit. The whole installation is plug-and-play if you have Crutchfield make the wiring harness. Volume controls worked perfectly after the installation. You can also use the iData link kit which is a little more expensive and may give you a few more display features if your head unit supports it. Later I installed this rear backup camera. I drilled a hole in the tailgate handle on the right side and it looked like it belonged there. PM me if you want a copy of the installation instructions they provided me.

(Note that if you use ForScan, you will see some DTC codes because of the missing Sync module.)