I know that Sync 2 is upgradeable, but from what I've seen, Sync 1 is stuck with factory updates, and that's about it.
Are there aftermarket options available? Crutchfield told me to go fly a kite (not literally, but that they don't recommend changing the stereo).
The system is seriously awful, even with the most up-to-date software (updated a month or two ago). I saw no appreciable difference after updating.
Throw me a bone here guys, am I stuck or are there options?
I guess first we need to define the needs and wants so a few suggestions could be made. Tech in cars is always going to be behind that on the phone.
There IS an option to upgrade to Sync3 I believe about $2, 000 or so.
Please describe the issue you are having.
Well the issue is mainly with the laggy software, the interface which is slow to react, the Bluetooth communication which can be spotty, I'll get the occasional crash, the USB connection will "lose" it's position (really annoying if you're listening to an audiobook, and there's no quick way of jumping to a specific spot).
Those are a few of my issues. So I have Sync 1, with navigation.
Is there a link to the upgrade to Sync 3? I know that there was the option in Sync 2, but through my investigation, it didn't look like Sync 1 had the option>? Honestly, I don't NEED navigation. I have my phone with Google Maps which serves me very well. I don't think I've ever used the integrated navigation. I need Bluetooth streaming and calling, USB and aux connectivity, and the radio. Nice to haves but not required would be interior media storage, navigation, CD player.
there's always hope, if you throw enough cash at a problem. I'm surprised Crutchfield didnt try to help you more, its as if they plan to essentially write off all Ford owners as customers... and I doubt that.
Worst case-
Sync uses an external and proprietary amp. So if you change the head unit, you'll need to either use the new head unit's wattage to drive the speakers, or use/ purchase an external amp. Either way, more wires will need to be run. And if you get this far, you'll want to just change the speakers to better match the new amp's power.
I mean, there's always the adage "Can it be done?""Of course, how much money do you have?"
I was looking for an aftermarket solution, that would limit the how much rewiring would need to be redone. I'd be fine redoing speaker wiring and bypassing the amp, but the CAN sort of scares me.
Also, here is the screen that pops up when I put my car details in Crutchfield...
(http://i.imgur.com/WiFSI40.jpg)