Hi everyone, I have a 2017 mkz reserve 2.0 with sync 3. It has a 3G tcu I’d like to upgrade to the 4G. I’ve read some threads on here and watched a video on how to do it. However most of them are fairly old. I wanted to see if anyone knows of a newer TCU I can buy, because I’m having trouble locating a HJ5T-14G087-U model for sale. In addition what is the best antenna? I’ve read some will give some sort of error, and I’d like to avoid that, in addition have a strong single as well.
I do have a few questions. Is there a specific 4g antenna you would suggest? The one in my car is only for the 3g. I was told it wasnt compatible with a 4g tcu.
Also when you say the tcu needs to be [quote=“F150Chief, post:2, topic:22189, username:F150Chief”]
HJ5T-14G087-UF thru UM for your vehicle.
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How does their numbering work? Is it UF, then the next would be UG, like alphabetically? Until you get to UM? Is there a better one to get out of those options vs the others?
I am considering getting the hot spot, what would I need to have that if I wanted to use it?
I need to get a OBD to computer connector as well. So any specific products especially off amazon is highly appreciated.
One last and final question, because I haven’t looked in awhile. Has there been any break throughs on how to upgrade sync 3 to sync 4 yet?
Still not worth updating to Sync 4. You will never get updates on it like maps or versions because they are all OTA and VIN specific. Many sites that sell Sync 4 setups are saying the updates are coming soon but they are wrong.
Sync 4 would not be really all that compatible with your vehicle and honestly would be a step backwards. Ford will never release updates for a Sync 4 retrofit for the system or nav. They learned from Sync 3…
The revisions sequence like you say, but may skip letters, etc. You will need to update the TCU unless you manage to get a -UM. You will need the -UM firmware. Not an issue.
3G and 4G are NOT frequency bands, so whoever told you this they are wrong. These are protocol formats and can run in the same frequencies. The same is true with phones with 4G and 5G, any new phone will get both.
I’m having a really hard time finding the tcu. I don’t even see one on ebay sadly. I think my only option is to go to the salvage yard. Any suggestions on what vehicles will have it, and do they have any options that this particular tcu was put into? Trying to save time from having to check every ford & lincoln vehicle at the salvage yard lol.
If anyone knows of a place online that has them in stock, please let me know.
@F150Chief The closest I could find to the correct part number is this.. Is there anyway to use another part number or this one by chance (photos attached reply)? Ive looked everywhere online for the UF-UM and cant find one anywhere. I called the local dealership and they told me whatever part they could get me would cost $800. If possible do you know where I could get one by chance or what vehicles to search at salvage yards?
It would be nice if it would. Otherwise I’ll most likely buy the one I previously posted. It is quite expensive, but at least it’s been tested and is said to be in excellent condition. I might buy a warranty for it too if so.
@F150Chief I went ahead and bought the expensive TCU off Ebay. I talked to the seller and received a slightly lower price, but also bought an Allstate warranty with it. So overall it cost $311, with a one year warranty. Pricey, but the ford dealership quoted me $800 for just the part. The other two dealerships I called said they couldnt get it the part, or didn’t want to take the time to look it up.
I currently have the 3G that came with the car, so Im assuming when I switch it with the new one, I can use the previous cables used for the 3G TCU to power the new 4g TCU. I’m also planning to use the orginal Antenna that was connected to the 3g for the 4G, however for some odd reason that doesnt work, I bought the bingfu.
I have the HJ5T-14G087-U model TCU installed into my vehicle with the original vehicle antenna, and a battery charger on the battery. Using OBDlink EX to my computer.
When I pull up forscan it shows the new TCU, but when I go to the “Configuration & programming” tab, the tcu does not show a update option. Am I missing some steps here?
Okay I have the correct forscan app now. I downloaded and installed the UM firmware. Now when I go to Read PID Data, nothing displays. I tried going to the AS BUILT format to put the B100 on the top left, but it fails to write it each time. What should I do to resolve this? Sorry for so many questions. Photos attached for reference
During the activation process the vehicle needs to be running.
Does the APIM show the TCU SN?
Looks like the TCU firmware is ok.
Set the 754-01-01 back to B132 xx.
Then start the activation procedure with the engine running.
