Updating USB-C Hub with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Not sure whether your Ford or Lincoln has Sync 2 or Sync 3? Learn the visual differences, what each system supports and whether an upgrade is possible.
No Sound in Your Ford or Lincoln? ACM Failure vs. APIM Failure
Another question I receive often is: “My vehicle doesn’t have any sound, do I need to replace the APIM?”
In many cases, the answer is no. The APIM is often blamed because it operates the Sync system and it's the part of the vehicle owners interact with most, but the ACM is the module responsible for your vehicle’s radio and audio.
Looking at the other symptoms can help determine which module is more likely causing the problem.
What Does the APIM Do?
The APIM, or Accessory Protocol Interface Module, is the computer behind the Sync infotainment system. It controls features such as the on screen interface, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and factory navigation when equipped. Possible signs of an APIM problem include:
✓ The Sync system freezes or continually restarts
✓ The system gets stuck during startup
✓ Memory issues, settings not saving
✓ Navigation or several Sync features fail at the same time
✓ The screen remains black even though it has power
A black or unresponsive screen doesn’t automatically confirm an APIM failure. The display may also be the culprit. More often than not though, it is the APIM that's at fault.
What Does the ACM Do?
The ACM, or Audio Control Module, is the vehicle’s radio and audio receiver and it controls all of the audio in your vehicle. In many vehicles, it is the metal module containing the CD player behind the dashboard/HVAC bezel. If the touchscreen starts normally and the menus continue working, but you have no sound from any source, the ACM is usually the more likely suspect.
Common ACM related symptoms include:
✓ The Sync screen and touchscreen controls work normally
✓ AM/FM, SiriusXM, Bluetooth and USB audio are all silent
✓ Apple CarPlay or Android Auto appears on the screen but produces no sound
✓ Audio stops intermittently, is distorted, or disappears completely
Which Replacement Do I Need?
If testing confirms an ACM failure, you can view our Audio Control Module/Receiver replacement.
If the APIM has failed, choose the appropriate replacement based on whether you want factory navigation:
✓ SYNC 3 APIM replacement without factory navigation
✓ SYNC 3 APIM replacement with factory navigation
Still not sure? Please contact us before ordering. Send your vehicle’s information along with a description of what's working and what isn't. We’ll help you narrow down the problem and avoid purchasing the wrong part.
