MyFord Touch LCD Problems Prompt CA Class Action

As technology advances, the amount of computing available in cars is only going to increase. When it works, it’s fantastic; the availability of GPS navigation systems have saved many a driver from losing their way. More complicated systems, however, mean more complicated problems, and last week Ford was hit with a class action lawsuit over its MyFord Touch system. The LCD touch-screen, sold in a reported 79% of new Ford vehicles, is linked to navigation systems, defrosters, rear-view cameras and 911 speed calling – but, according to the proposed suit, crashes frequently and fails to work as advertised.

The suit alleges breach of warranty and that consumers were led to pay a higher price through misrepresentation.

The lawsuit was filed by Center for Defensive Driving, an LA-based non-profit organization that purchased Ford cars with the MyFord system in 2012. The lawsuit claims that the system crashed on 27 different occasions, and that the problem is so widespread that Ford customers have created entire websites to complain and compare issues. These issues prevent drivers from using voice commands, connecting their smart phones, playing audio, and using the built in 911 calling system as designed. The Center for Defensive Driving alleges that sales representatives misled them into believing the system worked well when, in fact, the company has issued several Technical Service Bulletins in the past that highlighted problems with the device. Technical support, meanwhile, failed to address the problems, and a “master reset” proved ineffective.

The lawsuit, filed in California federal court, seeks a nationwide class as well as a California class. Those included are consumers who bought Ford vehicles with the MyFord system, and experienced malfunctions, but don’t have an injury claim. The suit alleges breach of warranty and that consumers were led to pay a higher price through misrepresentation.

The case is The Center for Defensive Driving v. Ford Motor Co., case number 13-cv-05068, in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.