Hello Taurus Friends,
We have a 2014 Taurus SEL with Ford Sync MyTouch with Sirus XM and Navigation with an 8 inch touch screen. The last 2 months have seen intermittent audio sound failure. When the failure occurs the buttons and ***** still function correctly and the touch screen also works correctly, however the radio touch screen will not allow the selection of AM or FM. I spoke with our Ford dealer and they advised me to take it to Audio Express and have them diagnose the problem. Their diagnosis ($60) concluded that the speakers and Audio Control Module (ACM) were functioning correctly and that the touch screen and Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) should be replaced. I discussed the findings with the Ford dealer and they then suggested to have their technicians run Ford factory diagnostics - for $140. No idea why they sent me to Audio Express in the first place.
When the audio was working I was able to run system diagnostics from the touch screen. All audio tests from both the ACM and APIM passed without faults. Touch screen also works without issues except when sound is not functional and then it will not allow the selection of AM or FM input.
We have an Extended Service Plan and the Sync MyTouch is covered. However, I cannot find any of the above Sync 2 OEM parts directly from Ford. I have found two companies that can provide the touch screen, APIM and GPS Navigation Upgrade (which may not be necessary), but I cannot confirm if they are new, remanufactured or refurbished. Both companies offer a SYNC 2 to SYNC 3 upgrade which they claim is seamless and will not void Ford's warranty. The upgrade cost is the same from both companies, $1,500 + $400 for factory navigation, which is not really necessary as SYNC 3 supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A replacement Ford SYNC 2 MyTouch Screen and APIM are priced at $400 and $750 respectively. The companies are Infotainment and 4D Tech.
We have 2 questions. First, has anyone else experienced similar audio sound issues that has a 2013 - 2015 Ford (or Lincoln) SYNC MyTouch system with navigation? Second, has anyone upgraded their SYNC 2 system to SYNC 3 and what have the results been?
Thanks for any information you can assist with.
Best regards,
Sunset

 

Decided to take my vehicle into the Ford dealer to have them diagnose the problem. Tech found that the Audio Control Module (ACM) was at fault. Part has been ordered but not expected for 3 weeks due to backlog and Covid-19. Good news is that the ACM, diagnosis and labor are covered by my ESP less my deductible. Tech and Service Manager think the Touch Screen and Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) are OK as they are not showing any faults and seem to be working correctly - but not guaranteed until the ACM is replaced and verified working properly. I'll update this thread again after the ACM is installed.
Happy Trails,
Sunset

 

The Audio Control Module arrived and was replaced by the technician. All is well and the touch screen and other control modules are functioning properly. Case closed.
Happy New Year,
Sunset Bronze