What's new
MyFord system expands Sync functions
Michael Bettencourt, January 08, 2010
Ford is announcing today its new multi-function control system dubbed MyFord, which will be a high-tech iDrive-like system for everyone, but with more voice commands and steering wheel multi-function buttons that are closer to what Mercedes-Benz does than BMW.
The MyFord system will add a new touch-sensitive LED colour screen (on MyFord Touch models), an SD card slot for easier upgrading and customization, an additional USB slot (now two) so you can bring music and photo sticks along, new WiFi internet capabilities, plus more and easier voice recognition functions.
These will all stem from an extension of Ford's current Sync system, which uses Microsoft's auto software now to play music from an iPod or music player (whether it's on a USB stick or on your Bluetooth-enabled cellphone). The system offers the ability to read your text messages to you, and you can choose from 20 standard responses while on the move.
This read-back capability will be enhanced with the new MyFord system that will be launched this summer by the ability to read your RSS feeds to you on the way into or from the office, the ability to browse the Internet when in Park if you're in a hot-spot zone, although this ability may not make it to market until the end of the year. Drivers with an Internet USB stick can offer passengers Net access on their laptops while on the move.
You will also be able to customize your home screen so that functions you use most often can show up on the main screen. For example, you can set up your greeting screen to feature 12 function shortcuts from any area to always greet you in the morning, including the heated seats, your favourite stereo presets (regular or satellite) and priority numbers you often call. Then come the summer, you can switch these heat presets for something else, or use the USB to transfer over all your settings to another MyFord-equipped vehicle.
The MyFord Touch system will be unveiled today at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, continuing a tradition the company started three years ago when Ford first launched the Sync system.
The MyFord and similar MyLincoln Touch systems will debut around mid-year in the Oakville, Ont.-built 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX, and will be standard on incoming new models after that.
Although Ford demonstrated the system's abilities at a Detroit show sneak peek event in mid-December, nobody was allowed to actually try it. It offers a lot, but will these offerings be easy to use on the road? We''l have to see.
Dealer must disclose vehicle history
A stricter consumer protection law finally went into effect Jan. 1 in Ontario that will obligate registered dealers to disclose a vehicle's "true history and condition."
This includes communicating any structural or flood damage, whether the vehicle was listed as salvaged or rebuilt, and whether the vehicle was used as a police, taxi or daily rental car.
Should the new- or used-car dealer not list these on a plain-language contract, the consumer will be able to cancel the contract, within various specified periods.
Also, if the ads you're seeing in the newspaper look or read a little different, that may also be due to the new Motor Vehicle Dealer Act, since the new rules require "all-in inclusive pricing" for both new and used cars.
