A good Ford SYNC 3 screen upgrade isn't only about the electronics. The physical installation is equally important. Mounting brackets, protective enclosures, clips, and hardware help ensure that the upgraded components fit securely and maintain a clean, factory-style appearance.
In the final part of our unboxing series, let's take a look at the Ford screen upgrade installation accessories included in the kit.
1. Left & Right Mounting Brackets
The left and right mounting brackets are designed to secure the upgraded screen assembly inside the dashboard.
Their purpose is straightforward: to keep the screen assembly properly positioned and provide a stable fit after installation.
These brackets are an important part of achieving a secure and clean Ford screen upgrade installation.
2. Protected Plastic HVAC Electronics Enclosure
The protected plastic HVAC electronics enclosure provides a dedicated space around the HVAC electronics and helps separate the components from the surrounding area.
Its dedicated structure helps organize and protect the HVAC electronics within the upgraded assembly.
This component is especially important because a screen upgrade involves more than the display itself—the surrounding electronic components also need to be properly positioned and protected.
3. Mounting Hardware
The included mounting hardware provides the necessary fasteners for securing the upgrade components during installation.
Although these are small parts, having the correct hardware included in the kit makes the installation process more convenient and helps ensure that each component is properly secured.
4. Factory-Style Upper Dash Tray Clip
The factory-style upper dash tray clip is designed to secure the upper dashboard section after the upgrade.
It also helps maintain a clean, integrated appearance, supporting the OEM-style look of the upgraded dashboard.
5. Third “Fake” Button
The third fake button is primarily an appearance-focused component.
It does not function as an additional control button. Instead, it helps complete the dashboard's appearance and maintain a clean, symmetrical, factory-style look after installing the larger screen.
What's Included in Part 3?
- Left and right mounting brackets
- Protected plastic HVAC electronics enclosure
- Mounting hardware
- Factory-style upper dash tray clip
- Third dummy button
More Than Just a Screen
A complete Ford SYNC 3 screen upgrade kit requires many components to work together. From the APIM and 12-inch touchscreen to the wiring, brackets, and installation hardware, each part has a specific purpose.
Understanding what each component does makes the installation process easier to understand—and shows why a complete Ford screen upgrade kit includes much more than just a larger display.