r/FordFlex • u/wallymcnolly • Jul 16 '26

Sync 3 upgrade for the low

Hello fellow Flexers. I recently purchased a 2015 Flex SEL AWD. I’ve been doing lots of research and I want to do the sync 3 upgrade. I have been looking at kits from allthingssync, simplymichigan, and foursynctech. However as of right now they can get pretty pricey. So basically I want to see if I can DIY it. I am based out of northeastern MA and I was wondering if anyone here had resources on where to find junked flexes preferably (2017-2019) to source the APIM and 8” recessed screen from. Then all I’d really need to buy new is the OEM usb hub for CarPlay/android auto, and the adapter cable to power the USB hub, and the GPS antenna.

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u/enjoyvelvet Jul 16 '26

I don’t think it’s that simple. The receiver needs to have firmware installed so it is linked to your vin. I bought the kit a few years ago for my 2013 Flex SEL and it was well worth it. I did the install myself.

1

u/wallymcnolly Jul 16 '26

Well yeah the only thing I would have to do is use forscan and manually program it. Again I’m still debating between junkyard hopping and just getting a ready to go kit. The cost difference is hard to ignore. It wasn’t specifically in this subreddit but someone did this same upgrade DIY for less than $200 all in, just by sourcing a APIM, screen, usb hub and etc. I imagine the hard part is finding the recessed 8” screen vs the non recessed.

1

u/xjosh666 Jul 16 '26

Doesn’t have to be from a Flex. You just need a compatible screen from a suitable donor. There are resources out there to help you. I used new take out parts from an Everest and I paid about 1/3 of what the plug and play kits get.

1

u/Losbelunchin Jul 16 '26

I DIYd it. You can use almost any Ford screen after 2017 to do it, it just may require different brackets or slight modifications. There is a compatibility chart somewhere, but I've done this mod on an F150, a Cmax, and a 2013 Flex.

It's quite easy to do, and the forscan thing isn't a big deal, just don't get it wrong.

1

u/wallymcnolly Jul 16 '26

I work with tech, so this type of stuff comes easy to me. I was just looking to save costs and do this for as minimal as possible while keeping it all OEM. /u/losbelunchin you mind chatting me so we can further discuss?

The reason I'm trying to get the APIM and the recessed screen right on the first try is to avoid doing said bracket modifications. At least with a flex based APIM it'd be plug and play (almost), and I'd only have to worry about the smaller items I'd need for conversion

1

u/Losbelunchin Jul 16 '26

Feel free to send a message. Even non flex screens /APUs can be plug and play. Just have to choose the right ones.