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OTA updates, what do I need to know?

digitaltrucker

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So I am new to this used 2021 that I picked up and I understand that Ford utilizes OTA to push updates. What should I know about this? In reading it appears that some updates are successful and others are not.

Should I install a wireless device in my garage and connect the truck to the home network to ensure a solid connection? Again this is new to me and anything I should know or do to make sure these updates happen, would be appreciated.

Thanks
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Buyer2021

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There's no reason to anticipate a problem getting OTA updates, many of us have no problems at all with the system.

Again this is new to me and anything I should know or do to make sure these updates happen, would be appreciated.
Suggest only three things:
  • Make sure your vehicle is set with "Automatic Updates ON". One easy way to do this is to use the FordPass App: Vehicle > Settings > Software Updates > Settings. You can also do it using the settings menu on your center display.
  • Ensure your battery is well-charged (perhaps put it on / keep it on a good charger / maintainer such as NOCO Genius 10 if you're not sure about your battery health)
  • If / when you get a notice of an impending update (either on FordPass or on your truck's center display) advising you to park your truck for a certain period of time to allow an update, heed those instructions.
That's all, then be patient, depending on its update status Ford may not send your truck an OTA update for a period of many months.

For example, I've received 22 OTA updates since my truck was new back in 2022, sometimes with intervals of over 4 months of no activity. Only one time did an update 'fail', that was due to a low battery, and upon charging the battery that update came through just fine when the Ford system re-tried later.

Bottom line, give the system a chance to work before you worry. :wink:
 
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digitaltrucker

digitaltrucker

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Great thanks!
 

rugedraw

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Check my sig for the "OTA process breakdown thread". It's a long ready, but it will show you how OTA's work.
 

wrgrimes

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I am stuck on this screen, checking daily for a week. Dealer replaced battery last week. Any suggestions?

Ford F-150 OTA updates, what do I need to know? IMG_2928
 

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rugedraw

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I am stuck on this screen, checking daily for a week. Dealer replaced battery last week. Any suggestions?
Disconnect the negative cable from your 12v battery, wait 20 minutes to reconnect and then try checking again.
 

LRscott

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So I am new to this used 2021 that I picked up and I understand that Ford utilizes OTA to push updates. What should I know about this? In reading it appears that some updates are successful and others are not.

Should I install a wireless device in my garage and connect the truck to the home network to ensure a solid connection? Again this is new to me and anything I should know or do to make sure these updates happen, would be appreciated.

Thanks
Another thing to enable OTA updates if you haven't already, is connect your truck to your home wi-fi. On your display select Vehicle > Connectivity > Wi-Fi. Just like other connected devices you'll select your router then enter the security code. When your router name comes up you can see how strong the signal is where your truck is parked. At one point I had trouble receiving updates on my 21. A Tech at Ford suggested setting check for updates daily at 1:01 AM. I don't know if that made a difference or not.
To see if you are up to date, you can provide your VIN # to one of several forum members whom have access to the Ford database. Just search for VIN Lookup.
 
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digitaltrucker

digitaltrucker

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Another thing to enable OTA updates if you haven't already, is connect your truck to your home wi-fi. On your display select Vehicle > Connectivity > Wi-Fi. Just like other connected devices you'll select your router then enter the security code. When your router name comes up you can see how strong the signal is where your truck is parked. At one point I had trouble receiving updates on my 21. A Tech at Ford suggested setting check for updates daily at 1:01 AM. I don't know if that made a difference or not.
To see if you are up to date, you can provide your VIN # to one of several forum members whom have access to the Ford database. Just search for VIN Lookup.
Thanks, that was something I was wondering about. Thats why I would put wireless in my garage so both cars would have a strong signal. I did the vin thing and my truck is up to date. I have the Oasis report where the original owner took it in and had it updated some time back.

I am fearful that the normal OTA stuff from Ford, will have an issue with the roof decking in my garage, Tech Shield for sun and heat rejection. Basically, foil..

Thanks
 

wrgrimes

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Disconnect the negative cable from your 12v battery, wait 20 minutes to reconnect and then try checking again.
Thanks, but no love.
Disconnected for 30min.
Reconnected
Idled to charge Lithium battery to 63(max)
Still unable to receive update status.
BTW, shows connected to home network.
I hope there are other options.
 

tbinmd

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Thanks, that was something I was wondering about. Thats why I would put wireless in my garage so both cars would have a strong signal. I did the vin thing and my truck is up to date. I have the Oasis report where the original owner took it in and had it updated some time back.

I am fearful that the normal OTA stuff from Ford, will have an issue with the roof decking in my garage, Tech Shield for sun and heat rejection. Basically, foil..

Thanks
The truck will pickup the OTA while you are out driving via the LTE modem. No need for wifi. My truck has a strong wifi signal in my driveway but it still uses the LTE for downloads.
 

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svtzx2

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Better to set your OTA check time to a time after your morning or evening commute. That way your 12v battery is charged and can install an update easier. 1am check/install time might risk an incomplete install due to a drained battery.
 

Handle

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Thanks, but no love.
Disconnected for 30min.
Reconnected
Idled to charge Lithium battery to 63(max)
Still unable to receive update status.
BTW, shows connected to home network.
I hope there are other options.
On Powerboost you have to also disconnect the auxiliary battery as well as the main battery in order to reset the TCU module that is most likely the reason you got that message.
 

wrgrimes

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On Powerboost you have to also disconnect the auxiliary battery as well as the main battery in order to reset the TCU module that is most likely the reason you got that message.
I have never disconnected the auxiliary battery. Further information will be appreciated.
will I have to reprogram all of my settings?
 

Handle

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I have never disconnected the auxiliary battery. Further information will be appreciated.
will I have to reprogram all of my settings?
I replied to you DM.
 

wrgrimes

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Rugedraw and Handle
Thanks for the help.
2 battery disconnect seems to have worked.
I hope it sticks.
I did break one of plastic catches. Hopefully, JB Weld works.
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