Ford's $17 Million Settlement: What MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch Owners Need to Know

         

After years of mounting complaints from Ford and Lincoln vehicle owners about malfunctioning MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch infotainment systems, the automaker has agreed to a $17 million class-action lawsuit settlement. This comprehensive guide explains everything affected owners need to know about the settlement terms, eligibility requirements, and how to file a claim.

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Understanding the MyFord Touch System Issues

The MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch multimedia systems, introduced as premium infotainment solutions, became sources of frustration for many owners due to persistent technical problems. Common issues that led to the class-action lawsuit include:

Major System Defects

• Unresponsive touchscreens: Delayed or failed responses to user inputs
• Voice command failures: System inability to recognize or execute spoken commands
• Connectivity problems: Frequent disconnections with mobile devices and Bluetooth
• Navigation errors: Incorrect GPS positioning and faulty directions
• System crashes: Complete freezes requiring reboots

These issues not only created inconvenience but also raised safety concerns as drivers struggled with malfunctioning systems while operating their vehicles.

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Eligibility Requirements for Compensation

The settlement covers owners and lessees of affected vehicles in seven specific states:

• California
• Massachusetts
• New Jersey
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Virginia
• Washington

Compensation Tiers

Claim amounts vary based on the number of repair attempts:

• 1 repair visit: $100 compensation
• 2 repair visits: $250 compensation
• 3+ repair visits: $400 maximum compensation
• No repairs: $45 base compensation

While Ford has agreed to the settlement, the company maintains that the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch systems are not defective. However, they have released software updates to address some functionality issues:

• Dealer-installed updates available at no cost
• Self-installation option for tech-savvy owners
• Improved system stability in updated versions

The settlement requires Ford to continue providing software updates for affected systems through the claim period.

The Evolution to SYNC 3

Following persistent complaints about the MyFord Touch system, Ford completely redesigned its infotainment platform, introducing SYNC 3 in 2016. The new system represented significant improvements:

SYNC 3 Advantages Over MyFord Touch

• Faster processor for improved responsiveness
• More intuitive user interface
• Enhanced voice recognition capabilities
• Better smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto)
• More reliable navigation system

SYNC 3 debuted in the 2016 Ford Escape before expanding across Ford's lineup for the 2017 model year, marking a significant step forward in the company's infotainment technology.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I no longer own the affected vehicle?

Former owners who experienced issues during their ownership period may still be eligible to file a claim. Documentation of previous ownership and repair records will strengthen your case.

How long will it take to receive compensation?

Payments will be distributed after the claim deadline passes and all submissions are processed. Expect several months for verification and distribution.

Can I still get the software update if I don't file a claim?

Yes, the software updates are available to all eligible vehicles regardless of claim submission. However, filing a claim is the only way to receive financial compensation.

Next Steps for Affected Owners

If you believe you qualify for the settlement, take these steps immediately:

1. Gather all relevant documentation (ownership records, repair invoices)
2. Visit the official settlement website
3. Complete the claim form accurately
4. Submit before the deadline

This settlement represents an important victory for consumers and highlights the growing importance of reliable vehicle technology in modern automobiles.