I have the map/software (obtained from Ford) update to install in my '09.

I installed the SYNC software update, which took almost an hour with the truck parked and the engine running (specified in the instructions). The instructions said it could take that long.

The map update is next, but I'm trying to find a way around idling my truck in my driveway for up to 3 hours!

I was wondering if I could update the maps while on a 6 hr. road trip. The instructions say the truck can be driven at "specified intervals", but it said that for the SYNC update and I don't remember seeing any specified intervals.

Has anyone else done this? If it is just data transfer from the 2 CDs, I don't see how it would cause any problems but I don't want to screw it up.

 

I just updated mine a few weeks ago. I left my truck running for the software update, which did take about an hour. I then started the map update. After about 15 minutes (~5% I think) I got tired of letting my truck idle, so I shut it off (with the disc still in). When I came out the next morning to go to work, it said 51% complete and to insert disc 2. I inserted disc 2 and drove 20min to work. After work it said complete.

I guess it was able to install the maps with the truck off after a certain point. Go figure.

 

SYNC and Navteq Map update completed. Here's how I did it:

Contrary to the instructions, the update can be installed without the engine running. With the key in the accessory position, install disc 1, which will take about 90 min. At the prompt, install disc 2, start the engine and install disc 2. Idle for about 10 minutes to charge the battery (precautionary), and then turn it off. That disc took just over an hour to install.

Make sure your battery is in good shape if you aren't willing to waste the gas. The Sony Nav radio setup will drain your battery much more quickly than a regular radio because of the HDD. I still have the factory battery but it load tested OK so I went with it.

All said and done, I can't say I noticed any differences with the SYNC update, and the graphics and colors differences for the map update aren't worth the $200 price tag (I did it on the insistence of my wife).

 

I never started my truck at all during the update process. Rather, I connected my Battery Tender, turned the key to the accessory position, and loaded the update.

I agree with you...I haven't noticed any differences with the SYNC update and I don't think it was worth $200!

 

If only someone could figure out how to display the navigation from our smart phones on the intergrated display then there would be no need for these costly "updates".

 

On my 2011, I went from version 3.1x to the 5.1x. Software update took about 25 minutes, did not need the 2nd disc. The Nav update took almost 3 hours. After 5% complete, you can shut off your engine to complete installation of disc 1 and 2.

 

Any pics of the updated interface? Trying to justifiy the $200, I am sort of an upgrade snob, as in I need the latest and greatest

 

Just be careful if you shut it off that you have the key in the acc position, if you dont it will lose power after a few minutes or if you open the door and likely majorly mess something up, Im almost positive this and possibly dead battery are the reasons it tell you to have it running.

 

I just got my update in. I plan on leaving the engine off but hooking up another car with jumper cables that will give me some extra power and then I can start the other car up with out interfering in the vehicle I am doing the update in. These units must come to ford already programmed from the factory. I can't see ford going to all of the trouble for programming.

 

where did you order yours to get the 5.1x update?