New Ford Sync tech allows users to lock/unlock a car from a smartphone

Ford’s Sync Connect has introduced a new technology that provides car owners with remote access to vehicle features via a smartphone app.

“New Sync Connect provides convenience to Ford owners through an easy-to-use app,” said Don Butler, executive director, Ford Connected Vehicle and Services. “The technology helps you seamlessly integrate your vehicle into your lifestyle. Get locked out? Cold outside? Forget where you parked? No problem. Just use your smartphone.”

Sync Connect makes its global debut in with Ford’s SUV – the new Escape, with other vehicles to follow. The app is connected to a built-in modem in the vehicle, allowing owners to remotely access features via their smartphones.

Vehicle features Sync Connect users can remotely access are:

- Lock and unlock

- Remote start, including scheduling a future start: You need to leave at 8 a.m., so you program a remote start for 7:50 a.m., then get in to a running, warm car and drive away comfortably and on time

- Vehicle status, including fuel, oil and battery levels, along with tire pressure readings

- Vehicle location – where your car is parked is displayed on a map

The Sync Connect owners can enable the tech through a two-step authentication process to protect their personal information, confirming setup on the vehicle touch screen and on the mobile application.