After years of widespread complaints from Ford and Lincoln vehicle owners, including numerous reports from automotive experts, a significant class-action lawsuit regarding defective MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch infotainment systems has reached a $17 million settlement. This resolution brings long-awaited compensation opportunities for affected drivers who experienced persistent issues with these multimedia systems.
Key Settlement Details:
- $17 million total settlement fund established by Ford
- Approximately 360,000 affected vehicles eligible
- Coverage for vehicles purchased or leased between 2010 and mid-2013
- Potential compensation ranging from $45 to $400 per claimant
2017 Acura ILX
$64900
Gas
4600 mi
Good
Deal
0
(5)
2024 Bentley Bentayga
$270257
Gas
36 mi
Good
Deal
0
(5)
2023 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron
$39651
electric
14310 mi
Good
Deal
0
(5)
2017 Acura ILX
$64900
Gas
4600 mi
Good
Deal
0 (5)
2024 Bentley Bentayga
$270257
Gas
36 mi
Good
Deal
0 (5)
2023 Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron
$39651
electric
14310 mi
Good
Deal
0 (5)
Understanding the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch System Issues
The problematic infotainment systems at the heart of this lawsuit were marketed as premium technological features but consistently failed to deliver reliable performance. Owners across North America reported multiple critical failures that significantly impacted their driving experience and vehicle functionality.
Most Common System Failures:
- Unresponsive touchscreens: Delayed or complete lack of response to touch inputs
- Voice command failures: Inability to recognize or execute spoken instructions
- Bluetooth connectivity issues: Frequent disconnections or failure to pair with mobile devices
- Navigation system errors: Inaccurate directions and incorrect vehicle location tracking
- System crashes: Complete freezes requiring vehicle restart
- Display malfunctions: Screen flickering or complete blackouts
Automotive journalists and industry analysts noted that these problems persisted despite multiple software updates from Ford, leading to widespread frustration among owners who expected premium functionality from their vehicle's central control system.
--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Eligibility and Compensation Tiers
The settlement covers owners and lessees of specific Ford and Lincoln models equipped with the problematic systems. While all affected owners may qualify for some compensation, the amount varies based on the severity of issues experienced and repair attempts made.
Compensation Breakdown:
- $400: For vehicles with three or more dealership repair attempts
- $250: For two documented repair visits
- $100: For one successful repair attempt
- $45: Base compensation for all eligible owners, even without repair attempts
Residents of California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and Washington may qualify for enhanced compensation due to specific state consumer protection laws that influenced the settlement terms.
Affected Vehicle Models:
The settlement includes numerous Ford and Lincoln models from model years 2010-2013, particularly:
- Ford Edge, Explorer, Flex, Focus, Fusion, Mustang, Taurus
- Lincoln MKX, MKZ, MKS, MKT, Navigator
2020 Acura ILX
$22400
Gas
31702 mi
Good
Deal
5
(5)
2018 Audi A4 Allroad
$24198
Gas
65824 mi
Good
Deal
0
(5)
2008 Tesla Roadster
$180000
electric
33000 mi
Good
Deal
0
(5)
2020 Acura ILX
$22400
Gas
31702 mi
Good
Deal
5 (5)
2018 Audi A4 Allroad
$24198
Gas
65824 mi
Good
Deal
0 (5)
2008 Tesla Roadster
$180000
electric
33000 mi
Good
Deal
0 (5)
Ford's Response and Technical Improvements
While Ford agreed to the settlement, the automaker maintained its position that the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch systems were not defective. However, the company acknowledged customer concerns by developing and releasing multiple software updates to address performance issues.
The most significant response came with the development of the completely redesigned SYNC 3 system, which debuted in the 2016 Ford Escape before expanding across the lineup. This next-generation system addressed nearly all the complaints associated with its predecessor:
SYNC 3 Improvements Over MyFord Touch:
- Faster processing: Reduced lag and quicker response times
- Intuitive interface: More user-friendly menu structure
- Enhanced voice recognition: Improved accuracy and functionality
- Reliable smartphone integration: Consistent Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Responsive touchscreen: Capacitive touch technology similar to smartphones
Many automotive reviewers noted that SYNC 3 represented a significant step forward in vehicle infotainment systems, effectively addressing the shortcomings that led to the class-action lawsuit.
--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
How to File a Claim in the Settlement
Eligible vehicle owners can participate in the settlement by submitting a claim through the official settlement website. The process requires documentation of ownership and, for higher compensation tiers, proof of repair attempts.
Claim Submission Requirements:
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Proof of ownership or lease during the covered period
- For repair-based claims: dealership service records
- Completed claim form with accurate details
Owners should gather all relevant documentation before beginning the claims process to ensure smooth submission. The settlement administrator may request additional verification for certain claims.
