Ford Sync/APIM fault

Ford Discussion
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1

Hello,
I’ve been trying for about 5 to 6 months now to fix the GPS problem with my Mondeo MK5, as well as the issue that it no longer accepts updates.

It all started when the navigation system began acting up. I’m always shown as being in the same location, and there’s a circular icon with a crossed-out GPS symbol (GPS/) on the screen.

I thought maybe the maps were outdated, so I downloaded the latest version from the official Ford website. The USB stick is recognized, but after about 2 seconds, it stops and shows the message “The USB stick has been removed…”.

Then I discovered CyanLabs and installed the Syn3Updater, entered all the information — same result. It recognizes the stick, but nothing happens, no matter how long I drive.

I’ve disconnected the battery, performed a reset — still no results.

Yesterday, I checked the As-Built data using Forscan and saved everything. According to the Motorcraft website, all settings appear correct. Afterwards, I removed the APIM module and looked for open or cold solder joints — but again, nothing changed.

My last idea is now to desoldering the Memory Chip eMMC (SDIN8DE4-64G) and do a reballing, maybe this is the Problem?
But as I never did that before, it’s a hard step, that’s why I ask you guys, is there any other Idea before I should do :)?

My Datas:
Ford Mondeo MK5 2017
SYNC 3, Software 3.0 Build 20204_Product Navi = F9

APIM Modul= hb5t 14g371 fag

edit:
Problems are:

  • GPS not working
  • No Updates are starting
  • the Automatic Trunk Lid stopping sometimes but that happen 1 time of 50.
  • Time changes on Engine start/off but always goes back to normal while i drive.

Everything else i see working. Phone can connect, even Traffic Signs are there in the Cockpit.

2

You likely have an APIM that is dying. If you can run the Interrogator Utility you might be able to find out what is wrong.
Can you access the APIM with FORScan?
Are there DTC’s?

3

Thanks, Chief!
But why is it dying? Is it some of the SMD components on the board? Capacitors? Or is it the chip I mentioned? The memory itself?

I used Forscan on my PC for the first time — just checked for DTC errors and so on. There were none at all for the APIM. Some other modules had lost power, but that was only because I checked every fuse in the engine bay and under the steering wheel.

Then I went into the modules and saved everything under “As-Built” — used “Save all” for every module. After that, I compared the APIM data; everything matched exactly as it should, according to the Motorcraft website’s “As-Built” data for my car’s VIN.

Is there anything else I can do with Forscan?
In the Live Data (PID), there was a point called “GPS FIX,” but nothing happens there.

Right now, i didn’t used the Interrogator Utility. The APIM Module is out of the Car and I’m not sure if I try to resolder the Chip will help.
Too bad I don’t have an electrical schematic of the board — otherwise, I could start measuring to see if all the components are still working.

4

I doubt that trying to repair the boards will help. Unless you have the proper equipment to desolder the EMMC and other chips you risk destroying the chip. Other websites like FFClub.rr have some documentation about this, but mostly related to mods, etc.

Go into the low level base APIM setup and see if the GPS is working there. There are several screens of info for the GPS there. If the GPS is working there, check the aquisition and location accuracy. Location should be under 1 meter accuracy. If not, there is a GPS issue, usually related to the antenna. You didn’t say where you are but if you are close to some conflict areas there may be an issue with comprimised GPS signals.

About the updates, which did you try. See if you can do the Interrogator Utility, as that will tell you if the APIM is healthy or there may be an issue with storage, etc.

The time changing on ignition is directly related to the GPS issue, along with any NAV issues like loading, drifting, etc.