This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the factory radio/head unit (SYNC system) in a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Replacement radio/head unit (SYNC 3 or aftermarket) × 1 — Use OEM specification or compatible aftermarket
• Radio wiring harness adapter (if using aftermarket radio) × 1 — Metra 70-5521 or equivalent
• Dash kit (if using aftermarket radio) × 1 — Metra 99-5830B or equivalent
• Antenna adapter (if using aftermarket radio) × 1 — Metra 40-CR10 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts and airbag deployment warnings
4. Wait at least 2 minutes after battery disconnect for capacitor discharge
5. Gather all replacement components and verify compatibility with vehicle

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove climate control panel trim
   Using plastic trim tools, carefully pry the climate control/radio surround panel starting from the bottom edges. There are multiple retaining clips around the perimeter. Work slowly to avoid breaking clips. Once clips are released, pull panel forward gently but do not remove completely as the hazard light switch connector is attached to the back.
2. 2

   Disconnect hazard switch
   Reach behind the trim panel and locate the hazard light switch connector. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight out to disconnect. Set the trim panel aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove radio mounting screws
   Locate the four T20 Torx screws securing the radio to the dash frame (two on each side). Remove all four screws and place in magnetic tray to prevent loss. These screws are captive to the mounting brackets on some models.
4. 4

   Pull radio unit forward
   Carefully pull the radio unit straight out from the dash opening approximately 4-6 inches. You will need access to the rear connectors, but do not pull too far as the wiring harnesses have limited slack. Use a flashlight to inspect the rear connections.
5. 5

   Disconnect antenna cable
   Locate the antenna cable connector on the rear of the radio (typically a push-on Motorola-style connector). Grasp the connector firmly and pull straight out. Do not pull on the cable itself to avoid damage.
6. 6

   Disconnect main wiring harnesses
   Locate the two or three main wiring harness connectors on the back of the radio (varies by SYNC version and options). Press the locking tab on each connector and pull straight out. The connectors are color-coded and keyed to prevent incorrect installation. Note the orientation and positions for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Disconnect USB and auxiliary connectors (if equipped)
   If your vehicle has factory USB ports or auxiliary input connectors attached to the radio, disconnect these by pressing their locking tabs and pulling straight out. These may be integrated into the radio module or separate pigtail connectors.
8. 8

   Remove factory radio
   With all connections disconnected, remove the radio unit completely from the vehicle. Inspect all connectors for damage, corrosion, or bent pins before proceeding with new unit installation.
9. 9

   Prepare replacement radio
   If installing an OEM replacement, transfer any mounting brackets from the old unit if not included with new radio. If installing aftermarket radio, install the wiring harness adapter, antenna adapter, and dash kit according to manufacturer instructions. Ensure all adapter connections are secure.
10. 10

    Connect wiring to new radio
    Connect all wiring harnesses to the new radio in reverse order of removal. For OEM replacement, connect the main harness connectors, USB/AUX connectors, and antenna cable. Ensure all locking tabs click into place. For aftermarket units, connect the adapter harness to vehicle harnesses, then connect adapter to new radio per instructions.
11. 11

    Test radio before final installation
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal temporarily. Turn ignition to ACC or ON position and verify the radio powers on, displays correctly, and all functions work (AM/FM, speakers, steering wheel controls if applicable). Test rear camera if equipped. If issues exist, troubleshoot connections before securing radio.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Secure radio to dash
    Once operation is confirmed, disconnect battery again for safety. Push the radio unit carefully into the dash opening, ensuring no wires are pinched behind the unit. Align mounting holes and install the four T20 Torx screws. Tighten screws evenly in a cross pattern to ensure straight mounting. Do not overtighten as this can crack the radio housing.
13. 13

    Reinstall trim panel
    Reconnect the hazard light switch connector to the back of the trim panel, ensuring the locking tab engages. Align the trim panel with the dash opening and press firmly around all edges to engage the retaining clips. Verify the panel is flush and all clips are fully seated.
14. 14

    Reconnect battery and finalize
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten to specification. Turn ignition on and verify all radio functions, steering wheel controls, and rear camera operation. Set clock, radio presets, and audio settings as desired.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are fully seated with no gaps or misalignment
2. Verify hazard light switch operates correctly after trim panel installation
3. Check that all radio functions including Bluetooth, navigation (if equipped), and audio sources work properly

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON and verify radio powers up and displays normally
• Test all audio sources (AM, FM, SiriusXM if equipped, Bluetooth, USB)
• Verify all speakers produce sound by adjusting fade and balance settings
• Test steering wheel controls for volume, track skip, and source selection
• Shift to Reverse and confirm rear camera displays on screen if equipped
• Verify climate controls operate normally and are not affected by radio installation
• Check for any warning lights or error messages on instrument cluster

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