I can agree with some of this, at least in theory. However, push-button start is certainly a feature I enjoy and will prioritize in future purchases. I hate having things in my pockets, and will leave my key in my backpack most of the time. Push-button start coupled with keyless entry are great features in my mind, and not simply "technology for technology's sake".
The other side of that coin are vehicle functions that can only be interacted with through the touch screen display. I've lamented about this in the past, but any vehicle function that requires me to take my eyes off the road (e.g. non-tactile buttons) is a safety hazard. Fortunately, our trucks offer very few daily driving activities that require use of the touch screen while driving. In fact, the only one I can think of that isn't entertainment or navigation related is the heated steering wheel. (I *really* wish Ford would add a physical button on the wheel controls)
So credit to Ford for largely resisting the trend of shoving as much functionality into touch screens as possible. Dodge can keep their 12" "productivity" screens; That kind of silicon valley hype has no place in my truck.
Yeah I had a suburban rental during a work trip one time was great just left my key in my backpack and the doors magically open as I got close. Except when only the rear tailgate unlocked as I walked up to it & threw my backpack in went around front to open driver door and what do you know the truck locked itself back up once I shut the rear & locker my “smart” key inside. Luckily it was a rental so I could just call them for roadside assistance.
More difficult to do that w/ a regular key, of course not an issue anyhow w/ touchpad on door & Ford app, but its a true story.
As far as crank windows etc, i think that’s pushing the analogy, I’m just saying I see no real benefit and only another thing to break...and it broke on you guys, Ford’s fault but it’s added complexity.
I like to keep vehicles for a while & while I’m not against features & options I prefer the “unnecessary tech” stuff to be relegated to what I’d consider “non-essential” superficial stuff so if it does break it doesn’t necessarily effect the vehicle serving its basic duty.
Like essentially all 1/2 tons we have a dial or button to engage 4wd, so be it, but if you think there aren’t trucks getting “stuck” in 4wd on a fairly regular basis (in terms of major problems) youd be wrong.
As for the touch buttons? 100% agreed, before it got totaled I was looking for a replacement head unit for my GMC b/c the stock unit went haywire outta warranty- good thing it had steering wheel buttons for the radio.
The retractable steps- so badass, except when one or both don’t retract, especially when it’s only ONE lol- and don’t act like you haven’t seen it.....multiple times.
I guess part of the reason this stuff does nothing for me is b/c I wish Ford (and other car makes) would put more effort into quality control & all the mechanical/drivetrain instead of spending so much time coming up w/ more complicated crap to Jack the prices up.
Who here thinks those new GM tailgates are going to be working the same way outta the warranty period? Not me lol
On the other hand- wireless charging pad? Totally worthwhile tech.
Sucks the buttons snapped hopefully it’s an easy fix...I’d recommend buying 2 in case it happens again.