Ford Motor Co

Ford re-makes MyFord Touch to upgrade, fix UI - Video

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 22:26:03 GMT

Ford re-makes MyFord Touch to upgrade, fix UI - Video

Ford kicked off the Los Angeles Motor Show by unveiling a remake of its MyFord Touch interface that it knew drivers were hoping for. The interface addresses the early user complaints and is both considerably easier to understand as well as more responsive to touch input. Audio, climate control, navigation, and phone calls all have more readily accessible common controls and are less cluttered, and the four are united by a home screen that's both easier to understand and quicker to use for top-level features.

Several upgrades have also come into play beyond just the basic features, Ford said. MyFord Touch now recognizes music and other content from the iPad and other tablets that can plug in over USB. Users can play Audible books directly through the system, including by using voice commands. Track searching has been given a boost through newer Gracenote data and better searches for unconventional names, and Bluetooth phones now both more seamlessly re-pair on entry as well as minimize outside noise.

Voice recognition has improved by reducing the amount of detail needed for directions and music as well as an overall speed-up both on starting the car and on demand; Sirius owners can search by voice for sports teams. Navigation is better, too, with updated NAVTEQ maps, more 3D and higher-detail highway exits, as well as routing based on crowd-sourced traffic data.

Every 2011 and 2012 model year car with MyFord Touch or its Lincoln equivalent, such as the 2012 Focus or Edge, will have the option of upgrading either at the dealership or through a mailed-out USB drive. All 2013 cars with the touchscreen interface, launching at the same time, will have the new interface.

2013 Ford Flex Restyled

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 21:19:51 GMT

2013 Ford Flex Restyled

Ford is certainly embracing the weirdness of its Flex crossover – at least, in terms of design – for its 2013 model year refresh. Set to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show next week, the 2013 Flex features a restyled front fascia that strikes us as flashier and somehow more robotic than the current model. We've seen it in person, and if we're honest, we're not sure we love it.

Ford understands the fact that not all shoppers love the Flex's exterior as a whole, but the automaker maintains that prospective buyers will like the sort of retro-modern look to the new front end. As for the rest of the Flex's design, things haven't changed too much, save the addition of some new paint colors and wheel choices, as well as the now-standard Flex badging above the grille – something previously reserved exclusively for the Titanium trim. We'll have to see what future sales numbers look like before deciding if this new schnoz is a hit or a miss, though.

Behind that new front end, the Flex receives a powertrain update: the base 3.5-liter V6 now packs 20 more horsepower – 285 versus 265 – and even with that extra grunt, fine-tuning to the powerplant has yielded one extra mile per gallon in both city and highway driving modes (18/25 mpg). Of course, customers will still be able to outfit the Flex with Ford's 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6, which carries over unchanged.

Inside, the 2013 Flex receives a refreshed dashboard and instrument cluster that incorporates the latest version of MyFord Touch. Other interior enhancements include pushbutton start, rain sensing wipers and the addition of more safety features including optional rear inflatable seatbelts and a host of collision-avoidance technologies.

[SOURCE: Ford, Autoblog ]

PRESS RELEASE

New Ford Flex Brings More Technology, Better Fuel Economy, Modern Sophistication to Seven-Passenger Crossover

• The latest three-row, seven-passenger Ford Flex offers comfort and advanced technology in a distinctive package, including sleek new front end and modern interior

• New Flex features the latest MyFord Touch® system, new safety and driver-aid features such as adaptive cruise control, Ford's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) as well as push- button start, rear inflatable belts, rain-sensing wipers and active park assist

• Under the hood, Flex is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 that delivers 20 more horsepower and projected 1 mpg better fuel economy, or the popular and fuel-efficient 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 8, 2011 – Fans of the Ford Flex have even more to love next year with an upgraded model with a sleek new look and even more technology to make driving safer, easier and more fuel-efficient.

"Flex appeals to people who want to stand out from the crowd and has the highest retention rate of any vehicle in the Ford lineup," said Mark Fields, president of The Americas. "With technologies not found in other full-size utilities, even better fuel economy and a more modern, sophisticated look, we're offering people even more reasons to choose Flex with the new model."

The seven-passenger, three-row crossover – which debuts at the Los Angeles Auto Show this month – comes equipped with the new generation of MyFord Touch®, rear inflatable belts, collision-avoidance technologies, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, first-row heated and cooled seats, power-fold mirrors and an optional new Appearance Package. Plus, the base 3.5-liter engine is projected to deliver 1 mpg better fuel economy on the highway and in the city, with 20 more horsepower.

Enhanced technology

The new Flex features SYNC® with the new generation of MyFord Touch, making it easier to manage information, control features and adjust settings.

"We've listened to our customers and have improved what they love about MyFord Touch," said Kenneth Williams, systems integration engineer. "In this upgrade, the screens have a cleaner, clearer display. The words on the screens are larger and easier to read, the pressable areas on the screen look more like buttons, and we have made the functions clearer for faster navigation.

"What separates MyFord Touch is that there are multiple ways for customers to manage and control what they want through voice commands, menus accessed through the steering wheel controls, touch screen, buttons or knobs – whatever they prefer."

MyFord Touch includes two 4.2-inch screens in the instrument cluster and an eight-inch screen in the center stack. The feature pairs with the latest version of SYNC.

The base SYNC package includes:

• Hands-free, voice-activated calling via a Bluetooth®-connected mobile phone or USB-connected digital music player
• 911 Assist™, the automated emergency calling service that is free for the life of the vehicle
• Vehicle Health Report, the on-demand diagnostic and maintenance information service

Enhanced safety and driver-aid technology

The new Flex is equipped with the automotive world's first production rear inflatable belts to offer improved comfort and protection for rear seat passengers. Last month, this safety innovation was named a Breakthrough Product Award winner by Popular Mechanics, part of the magazine's seventh annual Breakthrough Awards.

The advanced restraint system is designed to help reduce head, neck and chest injuries for rear seat passengers, often children and older passengers who can be more vulnerable to such injuries.

Advances in airbag inflation and safety belt construction methods have enabled Ford and its suppliers to develop inflatable seat belts that are designed to deploy over a vehicle occupant's torso and shoulder in 40 milliseconds in the event of a crash.

The new second-row belts operate like traditional safety belts in everyday use and inflate when sensors indicate a collision event. Each belt's tubular airbag inflates with cold compressed gas, which flows through a specially designed buckle from a cylinder housed below the seat.

The new Flex also boasts available radar-enabled adaptive cruise control (ACC) and collision warning with brake support and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert. These technologies help drivers avoid potential accidents using radar to detect the relative position of other vehicles and warn the driver with a combination of visual and audio alerts.

The ACC technology uses advanced radar to scan for vehicles in front of Flex at 20 times per second. The sensor can detect vehicles up to 150 yards away and detect speed changes as small as ¼ mph. When the system is activated, it functions like normal cruise control with the exception of being able to slow down the car when vehicles in front are detected to be slowing down. When traffic has cleared, the vehicle resumes the set speed. Four distance settings accommodate a range of driving styles and road conditions. The driver can set distance, speed and the time gap between vehicles.

Fuel economy bolstered by engines, technologies

Under the hood, Flex's new base engine delivers even more efficiency and performance with the addition of twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) to the 3.5-liter V6.

The upgraded 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine provides 285 horsepower – an approximate 20 horsepower increase from the previous engine – and 255 lb.-ft. of torque. The new Flex also is projected to deliver 1 mpg more fuel economy, with projected fuel economy of 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

This efficient V6 allows precise, variable control of valve overlap, or the window of time in which both the intake and exhaust valves in an engine are open at the same time. By adjusting overlap continuously, the engine can operate at optimum settings for peak fuel economy or peak power output as conditions demand.

The popular 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6 remains on the new Flex, bringing the fuel economy of V6 engines with all-wheel-drive capability and V8-like performance of 355 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque.

A key contributor to EcoBoost fuel efficiency is direct injection of gasoline. This system precisely delivers a fine mist of fuel directly into each cylinder for optimal performance, economy and emissions.

EcoBoost engines are fundamental to the Ford strategy of providing technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver exceptional fuel economy and uncompromised performance for millions of drivers around the world. By 2013, more than 90 percent of Ford's North American lineup will be available with EcoBoost technology. Ford holds more than 125 patents on its EcoBoost engine technology.

Both engines are mated to a six-speed SelectShift Automatic® transmission.

The SelectShift advanced gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control. With SelectShift with EcoBoost, paddle shifters are integrated into the steering wheel spokes. Intuitive to operate, a squeeze back on either paddle will deliver an upshift, while a gentle push forward on either paddle will induce a matched-rev downshift. SelectShift won't second-guess the driver with an override shift; manual control is truly manually controlled. The thumb shift is new for 2013 with the standard engine models.

Both engines also are made more efficient with EPAS (electric power-assisted steering). EPAS improves fuel economy approximately 4 percent and reduces emissions while improving steering performance primarily because the steering system is powered by an electric motor connected to the vehicle's battery, instead of engine-mounted hydraulic pump steering systems.

In addition, the new Flex's battery management system operates the vehicle's power supply system in a more economical manner to save fuel. The system:

• Allows the alternator and system voltage to be controlled based on battery condition, vehicle operating state and electrical load status
• Provides feedback to the vehicle regarding battery condition for active load management and battery diagnostics
• Monitors battery temperature (higher voltage in lower temperatures, lower voltage in higher temperatures), extending the battery life

Fresh new look, touches – inside and out

Flex's new front end rounds out the previously boxy edges, creating more visual harmony between the front and the rest of the vehicle. The signature Ford blue oval has been removed from the front, which now solely bears the Flex badge.

In the rear, Flex now has standard dual exhaust and available rear appliqué.

Inside the Flex customers will find a modern, sophisticated driver zone with new clusters, steering wheel and electronic finish panels, as well as new seat trim and foam.

Class-exclusives include the available second-row refrigerated console and the latest generation of MyFord Touch with SYNC.

Appearance Package and paint, wheel choices

Also new is an Appearance Package on Limited and SEL models that includes an available two-tone roof and mirrors, 20-inch machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets, leather seats, unique door trim panels and other interior upgrades for a truly distinctive, premium look and feel.

The new Flex comes in nine exterior colors, including three new colors for the 2013 model year: Ruby Red, Deep Impact Blue and Kodiak Brown. Customers also can choose from body-color roofs, or two-tone with white, gray or black available on the Appearance Package.

Six wheel styles are available for Flex as well.

Production

The Ford Flex is built at Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada

Ford begins taking reservations For the Focus Electric priced from $39,200

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:33:16 GMT

Ford begins taking reservations For the Focus Electric priced from $39,200

We caught our first glimpse of the Ford Focus Electric way back at CES and now, about 11 months later, it's finally hit the market. The manufacturer's long-awaited EV popped up for pre-order on its website yesterday, bearing a base price tag of $39,200. Add in an extra $795 in destination charges and subtract a hefty federal tax credit, and you're looking at a final sticker of about $32,495. As our friends over at Autoblog Green point out, that's about $3,945 higher than what the Nissan Leaf will cost you (pre-incentives), though your final bill could also hinge upon whether you opt for the Blue Candy or White Platinum paint jobs ($395 and $495, respectively), or those leather-trimmed seats, which would set you back an extra $995. According to Ford, a "limited number" of Focus Electrics will be made available in select California and New York markets, though the car should make its way to an extra 15 markets by next year, once production gets ramped up. You can reserve one for yourself here http://www.ford.com/electric/focuselectric/2012/reservations/

Press Release

Ford Opens Reservations for 2012 Focus Electric

2012 Focus electric is Ford's first all-electric, 100% gas-free, passenger car and the first of five planned electrified vehicles
Detailed product specifications and virtually build and price available at online website: http://www.ford.com/electric/focuselectric/2012/
Ford Certified EV dealers in California and New York/New Jersey markets will begin taking first orders for the 2012 Focus Electric
SEATTLE, WA., Nov. 2, 2011 – Starting today, drivers that want to go completely gasoline-free will be able to configure the all-new 2012 Ford Focus Electric online at Ford.com and place their orders with a Certified Electric Vehicle (EV) dealer.
"Today is an historic day, as Ford opens up the order banks for the company's first full production, all-electric passenger vehicle – the Focus Electric," said Chad D'Arcy, Focus Electric Marketing Manager, Ford Motor Company. "The all-new Focus Electric is an important part of Ford's overall strategy, bringing still another option to customers who want a car that is fun-to-drive, easy to own and fully electric."
Drivers interested in learning more about the 2012 Focus Electric will be able to see detailed product specs and virtually build and price one at a dedicated online website: http://www.ford.com/electric/focuselectric/2012/ starting Wednesday.
Focus Electric comes standard with: MyFord Touch with 8-inch touchscreen; two driver-configurable 4.2-inch color LCD displays in cluster for unique EV driving screens; MyFord™ Mobile App (for remotely monitoring and scheduling battery charging with owners' smartphone as well as remote start); HID Headlamps; 17-inch aluminum wheels, ambient lighting, seats made from 100-percent recycled material; Rear Camera with Rear Parking Sensor; Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start; MyKey®; voice-activated Navigation System; Particulate Air Filter; hands-free SYNC® Bluetooth telephone connectivity with Traffic, Direction and Information Services; electronic traction control; Sony®-Branded audio with nine speakers; SIRIUS® Satellite Radio and HD Radio™.
The only options on well-equipped Focus Electrics are leather seats and two paint colors.
"Ford believes driving electric doesn't mean consumers should have to sacrifice on driving experience or vehicle quality," said D'Arcy. "The Focus Electric comes with more standard features than any other comparable all-electric vehicle."
In addition to silently cruising past gas stations, Focus Electric drivers will never need oil changes or any of the other service required on gasoline engines. Focus Electric exclusively stores energy in an advanced lithium-ion battery pack. The battery pack uses liquid-cooling to help ensure a long-life and optimal performance under all weather and driving conditions.
The Focus Electric's battery can be recharged in just over three hours using a 240-volt charging station, about half the charging time of the 2012 Nissan Leaf. Drivers also can top off the battery any standard 120-volt outlet using the included charging cord.
The online site also provides potential customers the ability to find the location of their nearest Ford Certified EV dealer so they can place their order.
A limited number of Focus Electrics will first be available in California and the New York/New Jersey regions. Availability of the Focus Electric will expand next year to the remaining 15 launch markets as production ramps up.
The 19 launch markets include: Atlanta, Austin and Houston, Texas; Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, New York, Orlando, Fla., Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz.; Portland, Ore.; Raleigh Durham, N.C.; Richmond, Va., Seattle, and Washington, D.C.
Markets were chosen based on several criteria, including commuting patterns, existing hybrid purchase trends, utility company collaboration and local government commitment to electrification.
Power of choice
Electrification is an important piece of Ford's overall product sustainability strategy, which includes the launch of five electrified vehicles in North America by 2012 and in Europe by 2013. Ford launched the Transit Connect Electric small commercial van in 2010 and will launch the all-new Focus Electric later this year. In 2012, these models will be joined in North America by the new C-MAX Hybrid, a second next-generation lithium-ion battery hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid. This diverse range of electrified vehicles allows Ford to meet a variety of consumer driving needs.

Ford Opens Reservations for 2012 Focus Electric

2012 Focus electric is Ford's first all-electric, 100% gas-free, passenger car and the first of five planned electrified vehicles

Detailed product specifications and virtually build and price available at online website: http://www.ford.com/electric/focuselectric/2012/

Ford Certified EV dealers in California and New York/New Jersey markets will begin taking first orders for the 2012 Focus Electric

SEATTLE, WA., Nov. 2, 2011 – Starting today, drivers that want to go completely gasoline-free will be able to configure the all-new 2012 Ford Focus Electric online at Ford.com and place their orders with a Certified Electric Vehicle (EV) dealer.

"Today is an historic day, as Ford opens up the order banks for the company's first full production, all-electric passenger vehicle – the Focus Electric," said Chad D'Arcy, Focus Electric Marketing Manager, Ford Motor Company. "The all-new Focus Electric is an important part of Ford's overall strategy, bringing still another option to customers who want a car that is fun-to-drive, easy to own and fully electric."

Drivers interested in learning more about the 2012 Focus Electric will be able to see detailed product specs and virtually build and price one at a dedicated online website: http://www.ford.com/electric/focuselectric/2012/ starting Wednesday.

Focus Electric comes standard with: MyFord Touch with 8-inch touchscreen; two driver-configurable 4.2-inch color LCD displays in cluster for unique EV driving screens; MyFord™ Mobile App (for remotely monitoring and scheduling battery charging with owners' smartphone as well as remote start); HID Headlamps; 17-inch aluminum wheels, ambient lighting, seats made from 100-percent recycled material; Rear Camera with Rear Parking Sensor; Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start; MyKey®; voice-activated Navigation System; Particulate Air Filter; hands-free SYNC® Bluetooth telephone connectivity with Traffic, Direction and Information Services; electronic traction control; Sony®-Branded audio with nine speakers; SIRIUS® Satellite Radio and HD Radio™.

The only options on well-equipped Focus Electrics are leather seats and two paint colors.

"Ford believes driving electric doesn't mean consumers should have to sacrifice on driving experience or vehicle quality," said D'Arcy. "The Focus Electric comes with more standard features than any other comparable all-electric vehicle."

In addition to silently cruising past gas stations, Focus Electric drivers will never need oil changes or any of the other service required on gasoline engines. Focus Electric exclusively stores energy in an advanced lithium-ion battery pack. The battery pack uses liquid-cooling to help ensure a long-life and optimal performance under all weather and driving conditions.

The Focus Electric's battery can be recharged in just over three hours using a 240-volt charging station, about half the charging time of the 2012 Nissan Leaf. Drivers also can top off the battery any standard 120-volt outlet using the included charging cord.

The online site also provides potential customers the ability to find the location of their nearest Ford Certified EV dealer so they can place their order.

A limited number of Focus Electrics will first be available in California and the New York/New Jersey regions. Availability of the Focus Electric will expand next year to the remaining 15 launch markets as production ramps up.

The 19 launch markets include: Atlanta, Austin and Houston, Texas; Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, New York, Orlando, Fla., Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz.; Portland, Ore.; Raleigh Durham, N.C.; Richmond, Va., Seattle, and Washington, D.C.

Markets were chosen based on several criteria, including commuting patterns, existing hybrid purchase trends, utility company collaboration and local government commitment to electrification.

Power of choice
Electrification is an important piece of Ford's overall product sustainability strategy, which includes the launch of five electrified vehicles in North America by 2012 and in Europe by 2013. Ford launched the Transit Connect Electric small commercial van in 2010 and will launch the all-new Focus Electric later this year. In 2012, these models will be joined in North America by the new C-MAX Hybrid, a second next-generation lithium-ion battery hybrid and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid. This diverse range of electrified vehicles allows Ford to meet a variety of consumer driving needs.

Ford now using live operators standard with Sync service

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:45:12 GMT

Ford now using live operators standard with Sync service

After a successful round of beta testing, Ford is ready to put you in touch with a live operator by way of its Sync Services system. Should you feel the need to speak to an actual person, Ford will put you in touch with an operator who is standing by, as it will henceforth be included as a standard feature in Sync's suite of functions.

Live operators can assist with turn-by-turn direction while also sending any relevant information about your destination to your phone. According to Ford, relaying the live information will help drivers keep their eyes on the road while the person on the other end does the data digging. Customers who are new to Sync will receive 60 complimentary sessions, while current Sync customers will receive a set number of complimentary sessions based on how much time is remaining on their agreement

[SOURCE: Ford, Autoblog.com ]

PRESS RELEASE

Live Operator Assistance Now Standard Feature of Ford SYNC Services Following Successful Trial

After successful beta test, Ford adds live operator assist as standard feature of SYNC Services, providing another free enhancement to the SYNC® owner experience

Customers driving SYNC Services-equipped Ford cars and trucks now can talk to live operators when seeking directions or searching for business addresses

SYNC Services provides access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions
DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 20, 2011 – In a step to further enhance the SYNC® experience, Ford is adding Operator Assist, a new free service that allows users to connect with a live person, as a standard feature of SYNC Services.

Previously in beta test trial phase, the service is now available as part of SYNC Services and joins the growing list of cloud-based driver assistance features offered by Ford Motor Company.

"This isn't just about offering customers a back-up option to the services we have already. This is about giving customers a variety of choices when it comes to how they would like to receive information," said Doug VanDagens, director, Ford Connected Services Solutions Organization.

How it works
Cloud-based, on-demand, voice-activated SYNC Services provides access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions. Seventy percent of all SYNC Services calls are for business searches and from those seeking turn-by-turn directions, said David Gersabeck, product manager, SYNC Services.

Using advanced vehicle sensors, integrated GPS technology and comprehensive map and traffic data, the SYNC Services automated voice recognition system delivers turn-by-turn directions to the user. Further, with access to more than 14 million business listings, SYNC Services directs users to the businesses they seek. Operator Assist works with both the business search and directions options.

At any time during a business search or directions interaction between the user and the SYNC Services automated system, the user can say, "Operator," confirm his or her request to speak with an operator, and connect to a live operator.

In the event a user says an address or business that the voice recognition system can't identify, the user will be prompted with the option to connect to a live operator. If the user confirms he or she would like to speak with an operator for further assistance, the system automatically connects the user to the live operator.

"This is more than getting from point A to point B," said Gersabeck. "It's about delivering a level of connectivity that provides fast, hands-free connections to businesses or residences without the need for drivers to take their eyes off the road."

A beta test trial phase – started in spring and ended with the official launch of Operator Assist – found that drivers really like having the option of talking to a live person, said Gersabeck.

"The feedback was very positive," he said. "Our operators were told by customers that they were very happy and surprised to have an option for additional help, especially when they realized it was a free service. They expected Ford to charge for these services like our competitors do."

When a live operator assists with a business search, the user can choose to receive turn-by-turn directions to the business, receive a text message with name, address and phone number information about the business (applies to certain phone carrier networks), or be directly connected to the phone number of the business. When a live operator assists with address entry, the user can have the directions sent directly to the vehicle. When the information is sent or the user is connected to a business, a "session" has been completed.

New customers eligible for a three-year complimentary SYNC Services account will receive 60 Operator Assist sessions. Customers with an active SYNC Services account receive a number of complimentary sessions depending on the remaining duration of their SYNC Services account:

Less than a year remaining, 20 complimentary sessions
Between one and two years remaining, 40 complimentary sessions
Between two and three years remaining, 60 complimentary sessions
Owners of Ford cars and trucks can go to syncmyride.com/support to:

Buy a one-year SYNC Services subscription for $60, which includes 20 complimentary Operator Assist sessions
Purchase additional Operator Assist sessions
View how many Operator Assist sessions are available on their account
No in-vehicle software upgrade is required. The live operator services are provided by MyAssist, a leading live assistance and telematics service company for individuals and businesses based in Stevens Point, Wis.

RECALL: Ford recalls 1.1 million vehicles, including F-150, for corrosion

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 15:12:01 GMT

RECALL: Ford recalls 1.1 million vehicles, including F-150, for corrosion

WASHINGTON (Bloomberg) -- Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than 1 million trucks, including the F-150, the top-selling U.S. vehicle, because straps that secure fuel tanks to the vehicles may corrode and cause the tanks to fall.

The defect has led to three fires and one injury, Ford spokesman Wesley Sherwood said in an e-mail. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced the recall today on its Web site.

The recalls follow an investigation opened last year by the U.S. auto-safety regulator. They are being made in 21 U.S. states, and the District of Columbia, where de-icing chemicals used on roads in cold weather may cause corrosion of the metal straps.

The trucks being recalled are "older, higher-mileage" vehicles and have fuel-tank straps that "can corrode after operation for extended periods of time in high-corrosion areas," Sherwood said.

Ford said the recall covers 1.1 million pickup trucks, including F-150s from model years 1997 to 2004; F-250s from model years 1997 to 1999; and Lincoln Blackwoods from model years 2002 to 2003.

The company said it will notify owners of affected vehicles in mid-September and make repairs at no cost.

Ford earlier this year recalled more than 1 million F-150s for air-bag defects after a push by U.S. regulators. Air bags in trucks from model years 2004 to 2006 may not deploy when needed

NHTSA upgrades probe of 317,000 Ford, Mercury cars

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:29:25 GMT

NHTSA upgrades probe of 317,000 Ford, Mercury cars

DETROIT (Reuters) -- U.S. safety regulators have upgraded an investigation into consumer complaints that 2010 model year Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan cars may suffer from wheel stud fractures that could cause a wheel to come off.

The preliminary investigation of 317,315 Ford Motor Co. mid-sized sedans was upgraded to an engineering analysis, according to information posted on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website.

Regulators said Ford's investigation of the root cause of the alleged defect is ongoing, so it upgraded its probe to further study the potential problem.

"We'll fully cooperate with the government as they review this matter," Ford spokesman Wes Sherwood said. "We are not aware at this point of any allegations of injuries related to this matter."

There were 29 complaints and 128 warranty claims related to complaints of fractures in one or more wheel mounting studs on the cars, according to NHTSA, which said it is aware of four reported incidents in which a wheel separated from a car related to the alleged defect.

An engineering analysis typically follows a preliminary investigation, as safety regulators look into a potential problem. These types of probes can, but do not always, lead to recalls should NHTSA determine a safety issue needs to be addressed by a manufacturer.

RECALL: FORD Recalls The Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 16:32:44 GMT

RECALL: Ford Recalls The Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego

Ford has announced through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it is recalling nearly 3,000 examples of its Five Hundred and Mercury Montego (pictured) sedans from the 2007 model year.

The action, which affects 2,945 vehicles, is due to potentially defective welds between the filler neck and the fuel tank, a condition that could result in a fuel leak or the smell of gasoline reaching the occupants. In the worst-case scenario, a leak could cause a fire. Cars with the affected fuel tank problem could see an illuminated dashboard warning light as a result of the evaporative emissions leak being detected.

Ford will inspect and replace the fuel tank at no cost to owners (those who have already had the procedure done at-cost can apply for reimbursement), and the Dearborn automaker will begin notifying Five Hundred and Montego owners beginning August 15. Report Date : July 17, 2011 at 09:53 AM
NHTSA Campaign ID number : 11V355000

Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
Ford / FIVE HUNDRED 2007
MERCURY / MONTEGO 2007

Manufacturer:
Ford MOTOR COMPANY Mfr's Report Date: JUL 07, 2011
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V355000
N/A
NHTSA Action Number: N/A

Component:
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
Potential Number of Units Affected: 2,945

Summary:
Ford IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 Ford FIVE HUNDRED AND MERCURY MONTEGO VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 5, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 11, 2006. THE FUEL TANKS MAY NOT HAVE CONSISTENT WELDS BETWEEN THE FUEL TANK AND FUEL FILLER NECK SPUD WHICH CAN AFFECT THE STRENGTH OF THE JOINT. SOME FUEL TANK SPUD WELDS MAY NOT PROVIDE THE EXPECTED STRENGTH IN THE EVENT OF A SEVERE REAR IMPACT TO THE VEHICLE. AN IMPROPER WELD CAN RESULT IN A CRACK IN THE JOINT WHICH COULD ILLUMINATE THE EMISSIONS MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT, CAUSE A FUEL ODOR, OR ALLOW FUEL TO LEAK OUT.

Consequence:
FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT AUGUST 15, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT Ford MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332 .

Notes:
Ford'S SAFETY RECALL NO. 11S20. OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .

Ford is taking on GMs' OnStar by offering live Sync operator assistance

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 21:33:32 GMT

Ford is taking on GMs' OnStar by offering live Sync operator assistance

Ford's new feature, called Operator Assist, offers live operators to help Sync Services subscribers find a business or get turn-by-turn directions.

DETROIT — Ford Motor Co. is taking on General Motors' OnStar system by offering live operator assistance.

Ford's new feature, called Operator Assist, offers live operators to help Sync Services subscribers find a business or get turn-by-turn directions. OnStar offers a similar service.

The enhanced service is in a trial phase, Ford said. It is available to Sync Services users with 2010, 2011 and 2012 models.

Ford spokesman Alan Hall said the automaker plans to use feedback from the live trial this summer to determine how and whether to continue the service.

Doug VanDagens, Ford's director of connected services solutions organization, said, "By leveraging what's available in the cloud, we continue to innovate and improve our customers' experience without having to touch the vehicle or inconvenience the owner."

Ford's Sync is an in-vehicle infotainment system that pairs with a driver's Bluetooth mobile device for hands-free operation. Sync Services is a cloud-based, on-demand and voice-activated service that provides information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions.

Sync has not offered live operators before. Operator Assist is for registered users of Sync Services at no extra charge. No additional software or hardware is needed.

Operator Assist will give drivers a choice of interacting with a live operator or using a voice recognition system, said David Gersabeck, Ford's product manager for Sync Services.

At any time during a search for a business or while receiving directions, a driver can say "operator" to be connected to a person. Gersabeck said drivers asked for this type of service because their voice request was not always understood by the system.

"We want Ford Sync Services customers to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing they can get where they're going or want to go," Gersabeck said. "Being able to connect with a live person at any time contributes to that peace of mind."

About 70 percent of calls to Sync are for business searches and/or directions, Gersabeck said. Sync Services has more than 14 million business listings.

GM's OnStar telematics is known for its call center with live operators. OnStar's advertising has featured live operators offering subscribers turn-by-turn directions and emergency assistance among other things.

To better compete with OnStar's emergency response service, Ford added its "911 Assist" service to Sync in 2008.

When an airbag is deployed, "911 Assist" quickly connects vehicle occupants to local emergency personnel — provided the occupant's mobile phone is synced to the vehicle.

[ Source: Automotive News ]

Ford to close 175 Lincoln dealerships

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 18:58:23 GMT

Ford to close 175 Lincoln dealerships

In late 2010, Lincoln outlined a plan to cut 175 of its 500 metropolitan dealerships. The goal was to eliminate redundancy, while at the same time giving the remaining stores a better chance to succeed.

Six months into the plan, Bloomberg reports that The Blue Oval has so far cut 100 of those dealers, bringing the total amount of retail outlets in the top 130 markets to 400. The next step for the remaining dealers is to upgrade their facilities to include new training and staffing standards and perks like free car washes in the hopes of meeting or exceeding the buying experience at Lexus or BMW stores. Dealers have until August 31 to meet these new standards, which are said to cost up to $2 million per store. Those who don't qualify may receive decreased marketing support from Ford. The Blue Oval is reportedly still offering to buy Lincoln dealers or pair them with Ford franchises.

There is no question that Ford is asking dealers to heavily invest in their dealerships, and at a time when sales are very, very poor. Lincoln sales are down 11 percent so far in 2011, while the industry at large has experienced a 20-percent sales increase. But while sales are slow now, Ford has promised to introduce seven new Lincoln models by 2014. Ford is meeting with the Lincoln dealer council this week to discuss changes in customer service, while also giving the select dealers a sneak peek at some next-generation Lincoln models.

Source: [ Bloomberg, Autoblog.com ]

RECALL: Ford recalls over 1 million F-150 pickup trucks

David Walker, LeaseTrader.com — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:02:23 GMT

RECALL: Ford recalls over 1 million F-150 pickup trucks

WASHINGTON -- Ford Motor Co. and U.S. safety regulators have agreed to a greatly expanded recall of the best-selling vehicle in North America, the Ford F-150 pickup truck.

The recall is for a possible short circuit that could cause airbags to deploy unexpectedly and involves nearly 1.2 million F-150s and some Lincoln Mark LT vehicles, said the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall covers F-150s from the 2004 to 2006 model years.

Previously, 144,000 of the pickup trucks were recalled. The expansion comes after talks between the automaker and safety regulators in Washington.

Ford, in an e-mailed statement, said its review found the airbag deployments were linked to a "wiring chafe" condition.

"If a wiring chafe occurs, the airbag warning lamp will illuminate for an extended period of time prior to any risk of deployment, alerting owners to service their vehicle," Ford said. "We urge all of our customers to seek service immediately for an airbag warning lamp that is illuminated."

Notifications in May

Ford said it would notify customers in May and will ask them to take affected vehicles to their dealers for repair at no cost. Ford said the repair involves a replacement of an airbag wire in the steering wheel. Repairs should take less than half a day.

The automaker added that it is not aware of any accidents stemming from the problems.

"In most cases, the reported deployments have occurred within the first few seconds following vehicle start-up," the statement said. "Ford is aware of one instance where a driver exited a slowly moving vehicle following a deployment in a driveway."

NHTSA chief David Strickland said in a statement: "We are pleased that Ford shares our commitment to safety."

In February, Ford said in a response to safety regulators, "the condition does not present an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety" but agreed to the recall of 144,000 F-150s.

Today, Ford said it maintains its previous statement on the issue not being an "unreasonable risk," but agreed to the expanded recall "to reassure customers of Ford's commitment to safety and to eliminate any possible customer confusion."

The vehicles were the subject of 323 consumer complaints for airbag deployments resulting in 66 injuries, according to a January 2010 posting on the NHTSA Web site.

The reported injuries include a loss of consciousness as a result of the airbag deployment, a broken tooth, cuts to the arms and face, and abrasions and contusions.

Ford's April 11 letter to NHTSA said drivers were typically able to maintain vehicle control.

Ford cooperated during the study of the airbag issue throughout the process, NHTSA said.