Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[MyFord Touch getting buttons and knobs back to counter criticisms]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/myford-touch-getting-buttons-and-knobs-back-to-counter-criticism/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/myford-touch-getting-buttons-and-knobs-back-to-counter-criticism/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/myford-touch-getting-buttons-and-knobs-back-to-counter-criticism/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MyFord Touch infotainment system controls with screen

Ford deserves credit for being a front-runner in offering advanced infotainment technology with its Sync and MyFord Touch systems, but continued consumer complaints over its confusing touchscreen interface and capacitive controls has made the automaker relent. The Wall Street Journal reports that physical buttons and knobs for controlling tuning and volume will be coming back to Ford vehicles equipped with the controversial infotainment system.

The 2013 F-150 with MyFord Touch gives us a glimpse of what the new layout with buttons and knobs might look like, as Ford says a similar balance of touch screen capability and buttons/knobs are what's being planned for future models. And, while capacitive controls have no fans in the halls of Autoblog, many of Ford's models with MyFord Touch do have a large physical knob for adjusting volume with integrated buttons for tuning and advancing tracks, though most of those are models with the optional upgraded Sony Audio system. Lincoln models with MyLincoln Touch, however, feature only capacitive controls for all stereo and climate functions.

Despite receiving enough complaints to throw buttons and knobs back into the mix (a move that reminds us of BMW's iDrive trajectory, among others), Ford reports that Sync and MyFord Touch have still been sold on 79 percent of its 2013 model year vehicles, a number it claims is double the rate that Honda and Toyota are getting for their infotainment systems. Ford also states that owners who do opt for the duo of technologies are more satisfied with overall vehicle quality than those who don't have it.

While Ford's own numbers may show high rates of satisfaction, other surveys, specifically the J.D. Power & Associates Initial Quality Study, have taken a hit in recent years on account of new owners reacting to MyFord Touch and its buttonless capacitive controls. Ford's ranking in the IQS plummeted to below average in 2011 after the system's debut, which prompted a significant update for MyFord Touch the following year that fixed bugs, improved the user interface and improved the voice recognition. Nevertheless, Ford still ranked below average in the 2012 IQS survey, and today's news of physical buttons and knobs returning to the center stack comes just two days before the release of results for J.D. Power's 2013 IQS. Another system update will be released the summer, and Ford has increased warranties for all models equipped with the system.

Continue reading MyFord Touch getting buttons and knobs back to counter criticisms

MyFord Touch getting buttons and knobs back to counter criticisms originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buttonscapacitive touchfordknobslincolnmyford touchmylincoln touchphysical controlssynctouchscreenMon, 17 Jun 2013 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20624459/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/17/myford-touch-getting-buttons-and-knobs-back-to-counter-criticism/20624459/article-detail.xml 20624459 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/03-myford-touch-2013-update-opta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/03-myford-touch-2013-update-opta.jpg <![CDATA[MyFord Touch getting second update, extended warranty]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/myford-touch-getting-second-update-extended-warranty/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/myford-touch-getting-second-update-extended-warranty/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/myford-touch-getting-second-update-extended-warranty/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MyFord Touch

There is no doubt that Ford has had its hands full fielding complaints with its MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch systems these days, but looking to keep its customers happy, Ford is once again upgrading its infotainment systems and extending the warranties. Despite having just sent out updates for its systems back in March, Automotive News says that customers are still complaining about the speed and ease of use.

Vehicles with MyFord Touch will now get a five-year, unlimited-mile warranty, while the MyLincoln Touch will have a six-year, unlimited-mile warranty. Previously, the systems were covered under basic warranties (three-year, 36,000-mile for Ford and four-year, 60,000-miles for Lincoln).

What is being referred to as "version 3.5" for the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch systems will be mailed out (or downloaded) next month for owners of cars without navigation and in January for cars with nav. Owners of hybrids, plug-ins and electric vehicles will get the update sometime in the first quarter of next year.

The update is said to improve voice recognition and navigation functions.

MyFord Touch getting second update, extended warranty originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 21:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordinfotainmentmyford touchmyford touch 3.5mylincoln touchmylincoln touch 3.5Wed, 28 Nov 2012 21:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20390571/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/myford-touch-getting-second-update-extended-warranty/20390571/article-detail.xml 20390571 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-myford-touch-2013-update-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-myford-touch-2013-update-628.jpg <![CDATA[Blue Oval's Farley vows to fix MyFord Touch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/blue-ovals-farley-vows-to-fix-myford-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/blue-ovals-farley-vows-to-fix-myford-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/blue-ovals-farley-vows-to-fix-myford-touch/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MyFord Touch - dashboard view of screen

MyFord Touch is an enigma - not just because the infotainment system itself is difficult to understand and use, but because Ford just can't seem to figure out what to do about it. Ford's marketing chief Jim Farley tells Automotive News that despite ongoing criticism of MyFord Touch, even after a 2013 model year update, it "won't change our commitment to being a leader in infotainment. We want to be the best at it even if it means we have to improve the usability forever."

Farley goes on to say that despite all that the pundits at Consumer Reports have had to say - including writing that the system "stinks" in a recent blog post - 56 percent of buyers tell Ford that technology is an important consideration. Meaning that despite Ford's admitted inability to work the bugs out of MyFord Touch and make it more intuitive and speedy, it needs to stick with the system because it's a prime determiner for car shoppers.

Blue Oval's Farley vows to fix MyFord Touch originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consumer reportsfarleyfordinfotainmentjim farleymyford touchmyfordtouchmylincoln touchsynctelematicsMon, 27 Aug 2012 11:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20309712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/27/blue-ovals-farley-vows-to-fix-myford-touch/20309712/article-detail.xml 20309712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-myford-touch-2013-update-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-myford-touch-2013-update-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford tempers expectations of improvement in J.D. Power quality survey]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/ford-tempers-expectations-of-improvement-in-j-d-power-quality-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/ford-tempers-expectations-of-improvement-in-j-d-power-quality-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/ford-tempers-expectations-of-improvement-in-j-d-power-quality-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Technology can be a fickle thing for automotive companies. Done right, tech can help sell cars. Done badly, and tech can sink a whole company's image.

Ford is battling just that problem. Its Sync tech has certainly contributed to healthy sales recently, but customers started to complain with the buggy advent of the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch systems.

An update for the system back in March promised to fix the annoying restarts, the slow responses and the underwhelming voice control. The user interface also got cleaner, easier to read menus and iPad compatibility was improved.

Unfortunately, Ford is now saying the improvements probably came too late to be reflected in the J.D. Power quality survey to be announced today.

"We'll be about the same or slightly better," Bennie Fowler, Ford's group vice president of global quality, told Automotive News Tuesday. "The dramatic improvement we're expecting will come in the third quarter..."

Ford fell from fifth place to 23rd place in last year's new-car quality survey. At least part of the reason, if not most, was due to customer dissatisfaction with the two Touch systems. That ranked Ford and Lincoln below the industry average for the number of problems per new vehicle.

Consumer Reports told Automotive News that since the Touch upgrades, complaints about Ford products are down. The magazine's auto-test chief David Champion says "Ford's basic quality remains good."

Ford tempers expectations of improvement in J.D. Power quality survey originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordinitial quality studyinitial quality surveyj.d. powerlincolnmyford touchmylincoln touchmytouchnavigationqualityquality surveysyncWed, 20 Jun 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20262522/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/20/ford-tempers-expectations-of-improvement-in-j-d-power-quality-s/20262522/article-detail.xml 20262522 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-myford-touch-2013-update-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-myford-touch-2013-update-628.jpg <![CDATA[MyFord Touch, MyLincoln Touch upgrades shipping this week]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/myford-touch-mylincoln-touch-upgrades-shipping-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/myford-touch-mylincoln-touch-upgrades-shipping-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/myford-touch-mylincoln-touch-upgrades-shipping-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A few months back, Ford told us that it had listened to consumers and wanted to cure the ills of the first generation MyFord Touch. Starting today, the Blue Oval will begin shipping out USB drives to owners of 2013 Ford Taurus and Flex models, allowing them to install the latest version of the software from the comfort of their garages.

The update addresses many gripes that both the public and press have had with the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch interface since its launch in 2010. The graphics have undergone a relatively major overhaul with bolder text and a cleaner, more user friendly UI. Just as important, the touchsceen lag we've complained about in the past should be all but eradicated and voice recognition has also improved. No word from Ford on how it's dealt with the intermittent crashes that users have experienced, but we know that it was a top priority for engineers.

Ford's wonks have also added more phone support, Audible audiobook integration, a revamped mapping and navigation system and the ability to link a variety of tablet devices to the Sync platform.

Ford is shipping both a USB flash drive that contains the update and an SD card with all-new mapping data. Ford claims the installation should take around an hour, but if you're hazy on the install process, it can be performed at your local Ford or Lincoln dealer. Make the jump for the official details.

Continue reading MyFord Touch, MyLincoln Touch upgrades shipping this week

MyFord Touch, MyLincoln Touch upgrades shipping this week originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flexfordlincolnmyford touchmyford touch upgrademylincoln touchmylincoln touch upgradesynctaurusTue, 06 Mar 2012 09:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20185727/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/myford-touch-mylincoln-touch-upgrades-shipping-this-week/20185727/article-detail.xml 20185727 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ford-nav-version-upgrade-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/ford-nav-version-upgrade-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Car and Driver</i> calls out J.D. Power IQS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/car-and-driver-calls-out-j-d-power-iqs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/car-and-driver-calls-out-j-d-power-iqs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/car-and-driver-calls-out-j-d-power-iqs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Ford Explorer

Ford has taken it on the chin from J.D. Power since the carmaker rolled out its new MyFord Touch system in the 2011 Explorer. Ford's ranking in the influential Initial Quality Survey dropped from fifth last year all the way down to 23rd, in large measure because of customer dissatisfaction with the new technology and its voice recognition interface, but also because of refinement complaints about the PowerShift dual-clutch transmission in the Fiesta. But unlike, say, the Houston Cougars, who plummeted in the Bowl Championship Series rankings after getting blown out in the Conference USA title game this weekend, Ford can make a pretty good case that it's getting jobbed.

The traditional definition of quality when it comes to new cars and trucks has been based on those vehicles being free of defects. But in the last few years, the tide has been turning, in large measure because J.D. Power is increasingly weighing customer complaints related to design and, in particular, new electronic technology. Car and Driver paints the complaints that have dogged Ford among the latter, suggesting that these are less valid quality metrics than something like a poorly assembled door panel.

The venerable buff book doesn't stop at defending Ford, however, cautioning against what it sees as a trend "toward the lowest-common-denominator solutions to reduce design 'problems.'" Citing examples like BMW moving its cruise control from a separate stalk to buttons on the steering wheel to appease whining customers and Porsche getting dinged on IQS for using brake pads that generate too much dust, C/D doesn't say it outright, but certainly implies that J.D. Power is no longer pushing automakers in the right direction.

Car and Driver calls out J.D. Power IQS originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apealapeal studycar and driverexplorerfiestafordinitial quality studyiqsj.d. powerjd powermyford touchmylincoln touchpowershiftqualityMon, 05 Dec 2011 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20120747/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/05/car-and-driver-calls-out-j-d-power-iqs/20120747/article-detail.xml 20120747 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-ford-explorer-ecoboost-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-ford-explorer-ecoboost-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lincoln MKT models its new mug]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mkt-la-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mkt-la-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mkt-la-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Lincoln MKT in LA

The MKT may not be a big seller, but Lincoln is hoping that starts to change with a refresh. The MKT hit the stage at the LA Auto Show with a new grille that matches up closely with the new face of the 2013 MKS.

Beyond the (once again) love/hate visage of the new MKT, Lincoln engineers have added power and refinement. The base 3.7-liter V6 receives a 32-horsepower boost from 268 hp to a more class-worthy 300 ponies. Fuel economy also gets a boost, up one mile per gallon to 25 mpg when equipped with front-wheel drive. The MKT will continue to offer an EcoBoost V6 variant, with the same 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.

The MKT also adds Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) on EcoBoost-equipped models. The CCD system optimizes damping force in only 11 milliseconds to provide ideal ride comfort and handling regardless of conditions. The MKT also comes with Lincoln Drive Control, which allows the driver to choose from Normal, Sport and Comfort settings.

The refreshed three-row CUV will also feature available MyLincoln Touch. The updated system includes dual 4.2-inch screens in the gauge cluster and five-way steering wheel controls. The five-way controls give the driver access to climate, infotainment, phone and navigation settings without taking their hands off the steering wheel.

Hit the jump to read over the Lincoln press release, and be sure to click on the gallery above to check out our high-resolution images from the show floor.

Continue reading 2013 Lincoln MKT models its new mug

2013 Lincoln MKT models its new mug originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2013 lincoln mktecoboostlala 2011la auto showlincolnmktmylincoln touchsyncThu, 17 Nov 2011 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20108964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mkt-la-2011/20108964/article-detail.xml 20108964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-lincoln-mkt-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-lincoln-mkt-la.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lincoln MKS hits the Hollywood spotlight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mks-hits-the-hollywood-spotlight/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mks-hits-the-hollywood-spotlight/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mks-hits-the-hollywood-spotlight/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Lincoln MKS live in LA

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and for Lincoln, that all-important first stride is represented by the 2013 MKS. The big Lincoln sedan has been given a mid-cycle refresh that includes upgraded power, a newly refined suspension and a restyled beak, all of which are on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The newly redesigned front end of the MKS is likely to gather the most attention when it hits the streets in spring, as Lincoln designers have added more and thinner elements to the grille. Lincoln has also tweaked front and rear fenders, added a new hood and fresh HID headlights along with new LED taillamps.

Engineers would likely argue that the mechanical changes for 2013 are even more significant, as the MKS benefits from a host of suspension tweaks and more power. The 3.7-liter V6 now boasts 300 horsepower, 26 more than the 2012 model. Despite this welcome infusion of grunt, Lincoln tells us that this big sedan now gets three more miles per gallon. A base V6 MKS will achieve an estimated 19 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The EcoBoost 3.5-liter engine will continue to output 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.

The ride and handling of the MKS should benefit from Lincoln's new Continuously Controlled Damping, which can enact changes at a hair-raising clip of 20 times per second. The MKS will also feature Lincoln Drive Control, which gives the driver the ability to switch from Normal, Sport and Comfort driving modes at the press of a button. And speaking of switchgear, the 2013 MKS will feature available MyLincoln Touch, which has been tweaked for quicker performance and improved ease of use.

The new face of the MKS is more attractive in person than it is in photos, but we get the feeling that the more telling changes for the Lincoln brand will present themselves when the 2013 MKZ arrives at the Detroit Auto Show in January. If Ford really hopes to gain traction with its luxury marque once again, a much more thorough product rethink is clearly in order. Hit the jump to read over the Lincoln press release.

Continue reading 2013 Lincoln MKS hits the Hollywood spotlight

2013 Lincoln MKS hits the Hollywood spotlight originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2013 lincoln mksecoboostlala 2011la auto showlincolnmksmyford touchmylincoln touchThu, 17 Nov 2011 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20108962/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mks-hits-the-hollywood-spotlight/20108962/article-detail.xml 20108962 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-lincoln-mks-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-lincoln-mks-la.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Lincoln MKT shows its toothier grin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mkt-shows-its-toothier-grin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mkt-shows-its-toothier-grin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mkt-shows-its-toothier-grin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Lincoln MKT has never sold well since it hit the market back in 2010, but Ford is hoping to change that with a refresh for 2013. The three-row Lincoln crossover will receive an all new front fascia with a whole lot more vertical slats in the grille and no more intersecting horizontal bar. The lower fascia has been tweaked to look more rounded at the top, and the fog lamp assembly was made wider and shorter to help give the big ute the appearance of a wider stance.

Engine choices are unchanged compared to the outgoing model, with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost and the 3.7-liter V6 providing motivation. The EcoBoost model will still muster up 355 horsepower, but the 3.7-liter engine will now produce 300 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. That's up 32 ponies from the outgoing model, yet the 3.7 will also be more efficient. Ford says we can expect 17 miles per gallon in city driving and 25 mpg on the highway, up 1 mpg from the 2012 model.

The MKT also receives several ride and handling enhancements for 2013, including Continuously Controlled Damping. The system, which is available only on EcoBoost-equipped MKT models, utilizes 46 inputs to feed data to a control unit that monitors 23,000 packets of information per second. This data is calculated 500 times per second, which helps adjust optimal damping force in only 11 milliseconds.

The 2013 Lincoln MKT also features Lincoln Drive Control. This system gives the driver the choice of selecting one of three driving modes. Normal, Sport and Comfort can be chosen using Lincoln Drive Control and the shift lever. In Sport mode, the suspension tightens up 25 to 30 percent to emphasize handling. If a softer ride is your thing, the suspension can adjust to be up to 15 percent softer than the normal setting.

The cabin of the MKT also received several updates, including MyLincoln Touch. The system includes dual 4.2-inch LCD screens in the gauge cluster with five-way steering wheel controls to keep hands on the wheel. The system also includes an eight-inch multi-function LCD touch screen and SYNC.

The 2013 Lincoln MKT will be officially unveiled at the 2011 LA Auto Show later today, and it will go on sale spring 2012.

Continue reading 2013 Lincoln MKT shows its toothier grin

2013 Lincoln MKT shows its toothier grin originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2013 mktcrossoverecoboostlala 2011la auto showlincolnmktmyford touchmylincoln touchThu, 17 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20105368/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/2013-lincoln-mkt-shows-its-toothier-grin/20105368/article-detail.xml 20105368 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/13lincolnmkt02hr-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/13lincolnmkt02hr-opt.jpg <![CDATA[MyFord Touch gets overhauled for 2013, existing models included [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/myford-touch-update/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/myford-touch-update/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/myford-touch-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



MyFord Touch has taken plenty of flack from both consumers and critics since its release last year. The combination of capacitive controls for the climate control system and a cluttered user interface on the center screen were proof that MyFord Touch was a very one-point-oh product. To be fair, it was obvious that Ford's new system was both very advanced and very powerful, but its cool reception suggests that Ford may have attempted to sprint when it should have jogged following the success of SYNC. The first iteration of MyFord Touch was overly complex and occasionally glitchy, triggering a fair amount of bad press around some of the industry's leading quality indexes. Now, the Dearborn automaker is out to rectify some of the issues with its system for 2013 models - and existing Ford drivers will benefit from the updates as well.

To start, Ford has expanded the features of MyFord Touch to now include Apple iPad connectivity and access to Audible.com audiobooks through voice commands or the touchscreen. A range of improvements are also being implemented for better Bluetooth telephone connectivity, an updated map experience from TeleNav and Navteq, along with new Gracenote album cover art and improved voice recognition powered by Nuance technology.

The most obvious and front-facing updates have come in the form of a reworked interface for the central touchscreen. Ford claims to have significantly enhanced or augmented over 1,000 screens in the MyFord Touch system, using larger, bolder fonts, making the designs more consistent and removing low-priority elements while bringing the most frequently used controls closer to the driver. All that, plus improved touchscreen response time - something Ford heard loud and clear from owners - that's up to two times faster than the outgoing system.

These MyFord Touch enhancements are set to debut early next year on the 2013 models, with updates for existing owners going out around the same time (we've been told MyLincoln Touch will get similar upgrades). Overall, it looks like a solid - if not mind-blowing - update and you can see some before and after shots in the gallery above, along with the full details in the press release below the fold.

UPDATE: Video added after the jump.

Continue reading MyFord Touch gets overhauled for 2013, existing models included [UPDATE]

MyFord Touch gets overhauled for 2013, existing models included [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordinfotainmentmyfordmyford touchmyford touch updatemylincolnmylincoln touchMon, 07 Nov 2011 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20099951/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/07/myford-touch-update/20099951/article-detail.xml 20099951 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-myford-touch-2013-update-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-myford-touch-2013-update-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford talks Sync tweaks, adding airbag seatbelts to more models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/ford-talks-sync-tweaks-adding-airbag-seatbelts-to-more-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/ford-talks-sync-tweaks-adding-airbag-seatbelts-to-more-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/ford-talks-sync-tweaks-adding-airbag-seatbelts-to-more-models/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Dash witn Sync and MyFord Touch

Ford says that it's in the process of responding to customers who feel that the company's Sync and MyFord Touch systems are cumbersome or difficult to use. According to the Detroit Free Press, the company's internal quality evaluations have discovered a few issues. While speaking to reporters, Mark Fields, Ford's President of the Americas, said that the automaker is committed to improving the connectivity options in its vehicles, adding that by and large, customers enjoy the features. So far, it's unclear exactly what changes Ford will make to Sync and MyFord Touch/My Lincoln Touch moving forward, but we'd wager that software engineers will focus on further improving the software's voice-recognition system, though many Autoblog staffers hope they also reevaluate MyFord Touch's control scheme.

Fields also made it clear that the Blue Oval plans to expand its Sync AppLink service to the 2012 Fusion, F-Series, Expedition and even the Mustang. Currently, the $395 option is only available on the Fiesta, and it allows buyers to download various smartphone applications straight to their vehicle.

Finally, the Dearborn-based automaker said that we can also expect to see more seatbelts with integrated airbags crop up across is Ford and Lincoln lines. Right now, the safety device is only an option on the 2011 Ford Explorer.

Ford talks Sync tweaks, adding airbag seatbelts to more models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford synclincolnmark fieldsmicrosoft syncmy ford touchmyford touchmylincoln touchsyncWed, 22 Jun 2011 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19973454/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/22/ford-talks-sync-tweaks-adding-airbag-seatbelts-to-more-models/19973454/article-detail.xml 19973454 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/sync-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/sync-630.jpg <![CDATA[Ford's second-gen SYNC system off to a buggy start <i>*UPDATE</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/fords-second-gen-sync-system-off-to-a-buggy-start/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/fords-second-gen-sync-system-off-to-a-buggy-start/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/fords-second-gen-sync-system-off-to-a-buggy-start/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford MyFord Touch dashboard

In 2010, Ford reinvented its SYNC system with the launch of the refreshed Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX. But the new integrated system - MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch or what's known as "SYNC generation 2" - has been plagued by more than a few bugs. And part of the problem is due to its design.

If one of its various functions trips up - navigation, phone or entertainment, among others - the system can restart. This can leave the driver faced with a blank display and a restart procedure that can take two to three minutes. Double bummer: It usually wipes out your paired phones and indexed music.

After talking with several colleagues who have experienced similar issues (including one where the volume was stuck on max while the A/C continued to blow cold air in 42-degree weather) and experiencing these issues first hand for ourselves, we called up Ford's Head of Technology Communications, Alan Hall, and got on the phone with one of the Blue Oval's engineers to see what's causing the issues and how the automaker is addressing them.

Continue reading Ford's second-gen SYNC system off to a buggy start...

*UPDATE: Official statement from Ford added after the jump.

Continue reading Ford's second-gen SYNC system off to a buggy start *UPDATE

Ford's second-gen SYNC system off to a buggy start *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edgeexplorerfeaturedFordford edgeford explorerford syncford sync issuesford sync rebootFordSYNClincoln mkxmkxmyford touchMyFordTouchmylincoln touchMyLincolnTouchsyncsync issuessync problemssync rebootWed, 30 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19894577/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/30/fords-second-gen-sync-system-off-to-a-buggy-start/19894577/article-detail.xml 19894577 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/11myfordtouch01-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/11myfordtouch01-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Ford paying dealers to teach MyFord Touch to buyers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/report-ford-paying-dealers-to-teach-myford-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/report-ford-paying-dealers-to-teach-myford-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/report-ford-paying-dealers-to-teach-myford-touch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MyFord Touch home screen
MyFord Touch - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Blue Oval's MyFord Touch infotainment system is a powerful bit of kit, so it's perhaps understandable that there's proving to be a fairly substantial learning curve attached to it.

Thus, it's no surprise that Ford salespeople are spending more time than normal with car buyers to explain how it all works. But as the old sales chestnut says, time is money, so Ford will reportedly compensate its sales force by providing $75 for every vehicle sold with the MyFord Touch system. This also applies to Lincoln models sold with the MyLincoln Touch system. In addition to the $75 MyFord Touch bounty, Ford is also providing $50 for any vehicle sold with Sync. The move by Dearborn is to assure that sales people take the necessary time to teach buyers how to master the system, and thus avoid disgruntled owners.

Despite the lack of a 'Recomended' rating from Consumer Reports, Ford is forging full steam ahead with its MyFord Touch system. By 2015, the automaker plans to make it available on 80 percent of its lineup.


Gallery: MyFord and MyLincoln Touch


[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Report: Ford paying dealers to teach MyFord Touch to buyers originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford salesinfotainmentlincolnmyfordmyford touchmylincolnmylincoln touchtechnologyMon, 14 Feb 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19842824/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/14/report-ford-paying-dealers-to-teach-myford-touch/19842824/article-detail.xml 19842824 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/11_myfordtouch_04_shortcuts_screen_hr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/11_myfordtouch_04_shortcuts_screen_hr.jpg <![CDATA[Ford dealer giving lessons on MyFord Touch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/ford-dealer-giving-lessons-on-myford-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/ford-dealer-giving-lessons-on-myford-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/ford-dealer-giving-lessons-on-myford-touch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MyFord Touch
2011 Ford Edge - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford dealers are beginning to realize some buyers aren't comfortable with the virtual switchgear of MyFord Touch, and at least one dealer in Michigan is offering a free tutorial of the touchscreen controls.

Village Ford in Dearborn admits that while some of its younger buyers are more comfortable with the system, "... less tech-savvy customers need to come back in again." And after Consumer Reports pulled its Recommended rating for the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX due to ease-of-use issues with MyFord/MyLincoln Touch, there's little doubt Ford and its dealers want to proactively assuage concerns and get people comfortable with the controls.

However, as Jim Seavitt, the dealership's owner tells the Detroit Free Press, one issue is the lack of choice. If someone buys a vehicle with SYNC, they can choose not to use it, but if they option up for a higher spec Edge, "they have to use MyFord Touch," according to Seavitt.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Ford dealer giving lessons on MyFord Touch originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordlincolnmyford touchMyLincoln TouchThu, 20 Jan 2011 19:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19808976/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/20/ford-dealer-giving-lessons-on-myford-touch/19808976/article-detail.xml 19808976 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/2011fordedgereview35-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/2011fordedgereview35-630.jpg <![CDATA[<em>Consumer Reports</em> pulls Recommended rating on Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX - MyFord Touch to blame?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/04/consumer-reports-pulls-recommended-rating-on-ford-edge/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/04/consumer-reports-pulls-recommended-rating-on-ford-edge/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/04/consumer-reports-pulls-recommended-rating-on-ford-edge/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Lincoln MKX
2011 Lincoln MKX - Click above for high-res image gallery

2011 Ford EdgeHere's a slice of bad news for the MyFord Touch system. Consumer Reports has just released the findings of its crossover/SUV roundup, and both the 2011 Ford Edge and 2011 Lincoln MKX failed to garner enough points to wear the coveted "Recommended" badge. While CR noted that both vehicles offer improvements in areas like handling, fuel economy and interior quality, the publication found plenty of issue with the MyFord Touch/MyLincoln Touch system on both high riders. According to CR, the problem is that the driver interface system is overly complicated.

In a separate report that focuses solely on the MyFord Touch system, the publication cited small fonts and a slow-to-react touchscreen as key issues, saying,
"It all adds up to three or four ways to make what should be simple adjustments. None of the options works as well or is as easy-to-use as old-fashioned knobs and switches, and they can be more time-consuming and distracting to operate."
Ouch. So much for better living through technology. CR even went so far as to say that it hopes that Ford will give up the system of touchscreens and voice commands for the more simple dials and knobs.

In the same crossover/SUV roundup, CR also was unable to recommend the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe, remarking that "handling is ungainly and stopping distances are long."

CR's official press release is available after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Lincoln MKX: Review

2011 Lincoln MKX2011 Lincoln MKX2011 Lincoln MKX2011 Lincoln MKX2011 Lincoln MKX

Gallery: Review: 2011 Ford Edge


Photos copyright (C)2010 John Neff and Chris Shunk / AOL

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Consumer Reports pulls Recommended rating on Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX - MyFord Touch to blame?

Consumer Reports pulls Recommended rating on Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX - MyFord Touch to blame? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford edge2011 lincoln mkxconsumer reportsconsumer reports recommendededgefordmkxmyford touchmylincoln touchTue, 04 Jan 2011 10:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19785964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/04/consumer-reports-pulls-recommended-rating-on-ford-edge/19785964/article-detail.xml 19785964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/mkx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/mkx.jpg <![CDATA[Blue Oval adds fuel economy coach to MyFord Touch [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/15/blue-oval-adds-fuel-economy-coach-to-myford-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/15/blue-oval-adds-fuel-economy-coach-to-myford-touch/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/15/blue-oval-adds-fuel-economy-coach-to-myford-touch/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Ford Eco Route - Click above for high-res image gallery

MyFord Touch promises to better connect drivers to their phones and MP3 players as well as the functions that are traditionally controlled by buttons and knobs. The screen will be displayed on a 4.2-inch LCD located directly in front of the driver next to the speedometer, with a five-way switch on either side of the steering wheel that enables the driver to access information without turning his or her head or taking a hand off the steering wheel.

MyFord (and MyLincoln) Touch already sounds impressive, but Ford apparently isn't done wowing with its functionality. The Blue Oval announced today that its new touch interface will also help drivers save fuel by arming them with real-time feedback on fuel efficiency performance, helping coach drivers on how to conserve fuel. Jim Buczkowski, Ford director of Global Electrical and Electronics Systems Engineering, says in the company's press release that MyFord Touch "provides an unprecedented level of information and interaction so drivers can make the choice to be more fuel efficient."

Ford's newest interactive infotainment creation will accomplish this feat by providing additional fuel economy information, similar to the SmartGauge leaf display utilized in the Ford Fusion Hybrid. SmartGauge rewards efficient driving with an increasing amount of leaves and flowers, and drivers can also track their fuel economy with a graphical bar chart next to the fuel gauge display that shows mile-per-gallon averages for the past five, 10 and 30 minutes.

Ford also plans to utilize its excellent navigation system to help drivers become more efficient. MyFord Touch pairs up with the map-based navigation to provide drivers an Eco-Route that instantly utilizes both historical and real-time traffic data to map you to the most efficient route possible. Ford says that while the Eco-Route isn't necessarily the fastest route, it can help drivers consume up to 15 percent less fuel on any given trip.

MyFord Touch arrives this summer with the launch of the 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX. Hit the jump to watch a video and read over Ford's MyFord Touch press release, which also lists 10 useful tips for conserving fuel.


Gallery: Ford Eco Route


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Blue Oval adds fuel economy coach to MyFord Touch [w/video]

Blue Oval adds fuel economy coach to MyFord Touch [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eco-routefordfuel economyFuelEconomyinfotainment systemsInfotainmentSystemslincolnmyford touchmyford touch fuel economyMyfordTouchMyfordTouchFuelEconomymylincoln touchMylincolnTouchnavigationThu, 15 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19441633/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/15/blue-oval-adds-fuel-economy-coach-to-myford-touch/19441633/article-detail.xml 19441633 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/01-ford-eco-route-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/01-ford-eco-route-630op.jpg <![CDATA[MyFord Touch proves that the shape of things to come is awesome]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/myford-touch-proves-that-the-shape-of-things-to-come-is-awesome/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/myford-touch-proves-that-the-shape-of-things-to-come-is-awesome/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/myford-touch-proves-that-the-shape-of-things-to-come-is-awesome/#commentsFiled under: ,

MyFord Touch - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford began its MyFord Touch presentation with a simple question: "People line up for iPhones - why not cars?" What is it about certain pieces of technology that makes them a "must have"? And since the iPhone is really just a merger of two things we already have (a cell phone and PC), is it possible to blend something into a car that will get 'em lining up around the block? Quite obviously, Ford's hoping the answer is yes.

MyFord Touch - and if you buy a Lincoln, MyLincoln Touch - is a piece of driver connect technology like SYNC, only much more advanced. In fact, you can think of MyFord as SYNC 2.0. Or, you could, if not for the fact that there already is a SYNC 2.0. Regardless, in-car technology can do myriad of things these days, and Ford thinks it's found a way to group and display all of a vehicle's functionality in a logical, intuitive and useful way. Sadly, Ford is internally calling this "simplexity," as in making the complex simple. Or, as we wrote in our notes, "barf." Thankfully, the public will know it as MyFord Touch.


Gallery: MyFord and MyLincoln Touch

Continue reading MyFord Touch proves that the shape of things to come is awesome

MyFord Touch proves that the shape of things to come is awesome originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesDriver Connect TechnologyDriverConnectTechnologyfordford mytouchFordMytouchGUIiPhonelincolnMyFordMyFord TouchMyfordTouchMyLincolnMyLincoln TouchMylincolnTouchTUIVUIThu, 07 Jan 2010 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19306193/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/07/myford-touch-proves-that-the-shape-of-things-to-come-is-awesome/19306193/article-detail.xml 19306193 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/11_myfordtouch_01_hr_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/11_myfordtouch_01_hr_opt.jpg -1 2