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
2016 Buick Cascada
$12243
Gas
77700 mi
Good
Deal
1
(5)
2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia
$26906
Gas
2054 mi
Good
Deal
0
(5)
2018 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus RWD
$24950
Gas
37670 mi
Fair
Deal
0
(5)
2016 Buick Cascada
$12243
Gas
77700 mi
Good
Deal
1 (5)
2022 Alfa Romeo Giulia
$26906
Gas
2054 mi
Good
Deal
0 (5)
2018 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus RWD
$24950
Gas
37670 mi
Fair
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.
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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
BMW 2 Series
$20000
Gas
243232 mi
Fair
Deal
0
(5)
2023 Jaguar I-PACE
$79999
electric
43 mi
Good
Deal
0
(5)
2024 Bentley Bentayga
$252097
Gas
47 mi
Fair
Deal
0
(5)
BMW 2 Series
$20000
Gas
243232 mi
Fair
Deal
0 (5)
2023 Jaguar I-PACE
$79999
electric
43 mi
Good
Deal
0 (5)
2024 Bentley Bentayga
$252097
Gas
47 mi
Fair
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.
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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.
