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Ford’s Sync Keeps Getting Better
Dec 04 2008 by Emily Hansen
The first time I tested Ford’s Sync, an in-car, voice-activated communication and media system, it failed to live up to its name and easily connect to my cell phone. But Sync recently redeemed itself when I test drove a 2009 Mercury Mariner that was equipped with it.
Sync’s media portion has always impressed me. When I first reviewed Sync in December 2007, I was thrilled by how easy it was to connect my music to the system, and that’s remained the same today. This great video explains how Sync works. It features Derek, a fictional Sync user and self-confessed ’80s hair-band aficionado, using Sync to wrangle his music and cell phone. The video emphasizes how using the system can help Derek be a less distracted driver, something all of us here at MotherProof.com’s Global Headquarters cheer.
When I tested it in 2007, Sync’s phone compatibility needed a lot of improvement. Today’s list of Sync-compatible phones is impressive and growing all the time. But not all phones are capable of utilizing all of Sync’s features. For instance, my iPhone easily downloaded its phonebook into Sync, and it performed all kinds of calling features, including call waiting and three-way calling. But Sync wasn’t able to read my text messages to me. This is still a big improvement from my previous cell phone that was barely able to connect to Sync, let alone use its advanced features.
Ford recently added Sync Services, which includes Sync 911 and Sync Vehicle Health Report for checking and reporting maintenance information to you through its website. Both of these services are available on select 2009 cars, and some older models with Sync can be upgraded at a local Ford dealer service center. I wasn’t able to test these services, but I’ll give Ford a positive nod for continuing to update and enhance Sync. I appreciate the peace of mind that Sync Services offers me while driving with my most precious cargo, my family.
I remain a big fan of Sync, and I look forward to testing and explaining each new Sync generation as it unfolds.
I’ve always been a fan of FORD cars that’s why when they first introduced this stuff, I find it really interesting
though I wasn’t able to have it in my ford oem parts car. It’s a great and functional safety feature.