Ford: Difference between revisions
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===User privacy=== | ===User privacy=== | ||
:Ford’s data collection practices and privacy policies have raised significant concerns: | :Ford’s data collection practices and privacy policies have raised significant concerns: | ||
:*Extensive data collection: Ford collects a wide range of personal and vehicle data, including location, driving behavior (speed, braking), voice commands, media preferences, and even passenger information. This data is linked to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be tied to individual users.<ref name=":0">https://www.ford.com/help/privacy/ | :*Extensive data collection: Ford collects a wide range of personal and vehicle data, including location, driving behavior (speed, braking), voice commands, media preferences, and even passenger information. This data is linked to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be tied to individual users.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Privacy |url=https://www.ford.com/help/privacy/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260210074703/https://www.ford.com/help/privacy/ |archive-date=February 10, 2026 |website=Ford}}</ref> | ||
:*Data collected includes purchase history, financial information, coarse and precise location data, contact information, identifiers (e.g., VIN, account ID), user-generated content (e.g., voice recordings from smart features), search and browsing history for advertising purposes, usage data, sensitive information (under "Inferences"), diagnostics, and more.<ref name=":0" /> | :*Data collected includes purchase history, financial information, coarse and precise location data, contact information, identifiers (e.g., VIN, account ID), user-generated content (e.g., voice recordings from smart features), search and browsing history for advertising purposes, usage data, sensitive information (under "Inferences"), diagnostics, and more.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
:*Aggregates data from external sources as well, including users' social media posts.<ref name=":0" /> | :*Aggregates data from external sources as well, including users' social media posts.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
:*Privacy policy is designed to prevent quickly searching for important terms. | :*Privacy policy is designed to prevent quickly searching for important terms.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
:*Lack of transparency and control: Users are often unaware of the scope of data collection, and Ford’s policies allow sharing with affiliates, dealers, advertisers, and law enforcement. The company reserves the right to override location settings in certain circumstances (e.g., repossession, legal requests).<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Elvy |first=Stacy-Ann |title=Paying for Privacy and the Personal Data Economy |url=https://www.columbialawreview.org/content/paying-for-privacy-and-the-personal-data-economy/ |website=Columbia Law Review |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251104161409/https://www.columbialawreview.org/content/paying-for-privacy-and-the-personal-data-economy/ |archive-date=4 Nov 2025}}</ref> | :*Lack of transparency and control: Users are often unaware of the scope of data collection, and Ford’s policies allow sharing with affiliates, dealers, advertisers, and law enforcement. The company reserves the right to override location settings in certain circumstances (e.g., repossession, legal requests).<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Elvy |first=Stacy-Ann |title=Paying for Privacy and the Personal Data Economy |url=https://www.columbialawreview.org/content/paying-for-privacy-and-the-personal-data-economy/ |website=Columbia Law Review |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251104161409/https://www.columbialawreview.org/content/paying-for-privacy-and-the-personal-data-economy/ |archive-date=4 Nov 2025}}</ref> | ||
:*Security vulnerabilities: Past incidents, such as cybersecurity flaws in the FordPass app and exposed customer records, highlight risks of data breaches. Ford has been criticized for dismissing external reports of vulnerabilities.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=August 15, 2023 |title=Ford |url=https://www.mozillafoundation.org/en/privacynotincluded/ford/ |website=mozillafoundation.org |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223043744/https://www.mozillafoundation.org/en/privacynotincluded/ford/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> | :*Security vulnerabilities: Past incidents, such as cybersecurity flaws in the FordPass app and exposed customer records, highlight risks of data breaches. Ford has been criticized for dismissing external reports of vulnerabilities.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=August 15, 2023 |title=Ford |url=https://www.mozillafoundation.org/en/privacynotincluded/ford/ |website=mozillafoundation.org |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223043744/https://www.mozillafoundation.org/en/privacynotincluded/ford/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> | ||
:*According to CCPA Metrics from 2023, there were 96 requests for data to be deleted, and seven of these requests were denied.<ref | :*According to CCPA Metrics from 2023, there were 96 requests for data to be deleted, and seven of these requests were denied.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
===User freedom=== | ===User freedom=== | ||
:*Limited opt-out options: Ford’s default settings opt users into data collection, with no clear path to fully delete data. Passengers and secondary drivers must also be informed of data collection, placing the burden on the primary user.<ref name=": | :*Limited opt-out options: Ford’s default settings opt users into data collection, with no clear path to fully delete data. Passengers and secondary drivers must also be informed of data collection, placing the burden on the primary user.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
:*Forced connectivity: Features like FordPass require data sharing for basic functionalities (e.g., remote start, tire pressure checks), limiting user choice.<ref name=":3" /> | :*Forced connectivity: Features like FordPass require data sharing for basic functionalities (e.g., remote start, tire pressure checks), limiting user choice.<ref name=":3" /> | ||
===Business model=== | ===Business model=== | ||
| Line 35: | Line 35: | ||
:*[[Ford ad patent|Patents regarding consumer data]] | :*[[Ford ad patent|Patents regarding consumer data]] | ||
::Ford has secured patents for systems that are unrelated to core driving functions and involve consumer data collection. One patented system can deliver targeted advertisements based on in-vehicle conversations, while another relates to vehicle repossession and allows for access restrictions (e.g., in cases of missed payments). Ford has clarified that holding these patents does not necessarily mean they will be implemented in future products. However, the existence of such systems could influence consumer perceptions of the company and affect their willingness to accept certain sales terms.<ref name=":1">https://arstechnica.com/cars/2023/03/ford-files-patent-for-system-that-could-remotely-repossess-a-car/ | ::Ford has secured patents for systems that are unrelated to core driving functions and involve consumer data collection. One patented system can deliver targeted advertisements based on in-vehicle conversations, while another relates to vehicle repossession and allows for access restrictions (e.g., in cases of missed payments). Ford has clarified that holding these patents does not necessarily mean they will be implemented in future products. However, the existence of such systems could influence consumer perceptions of the company and affect their willingness to accept certain sales terms.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Gitlin |first=Jonathan M. |date=March 2, 2023 |title=Ford files patent for system that could remotely repossess a car |url=https://arstechnica.com/cars/2023/03/ford-files-patent-for-system-that-could-remotely-repossess-a-car/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223043817/https://arstechnica.com/cars/2023/03/ford-files-patent-for-system-that-could-remotely-repossess-a-car/ |archive-date=February 23, 2026 |website=Ars Technica}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smalley |first=Suzanne |date=September 9, 2024 |title=Ford seeks patent for tech that listens to driver conversations to serve ads |url=https://therecord.media/ford-patent-application-in-vehicle-listening-advertising |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260101115700/https://therecord.media/ford-patent-application-in-vehicle-listening-advertising |archive-date=January 1, 2026 |website=therecord.media}}</ref> | ||
:*Engineering practices | :*Engineering practices | ||
::Some engine designs use a rubber belt—rather than a metal chain—to drive the oil pump. This belt operates submerged in engine oil and may wear out prematurely, potentially leading to a sudden loss of oil pressure. Additionally, they have released transmission systems in certain ''Fiesta'' and ''Focus'' models that have experienced issues, including loss of power during acceleration, gear shifting, or at constant speeds, as well as unintended acceleration. It has been reported that a software update rendered a vehicle inoperable.<ref>https://garagewire.co.uk/news/bbc-watchdog-ford-ecoboost-wet-belt-problem/ | ::Some engine designs use a rubber belt—rather than a metal chain—to drive the oil pump. This belt operates submerged in engine oil and may wear out prematurely, potentially leading to a sudden loss of oil pressure. Additionally, they have released transmission systems in certain ''Fiesta'' and ''Focus'' models that have experienced issues, including loss of power during acceleration, gear shifting, or at constant speeds, as well as unintended acceleration. It has been reported that a software update rendered a vehicle inoperable.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Braithwaite-Smith |first=Gavin |date=February 23, 2026 |title=BBC Watchdog shines light on Ford EcoBoost wet belt problem |url=https://garagewire.co.uk/news/bbc-watchdog-ford-ecoboost-wet-belt-problem/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223043859/https://garagewire.co.uk/news/bbc-watchdog-ford-ecoboost-wet-belt-problem/ |archive-date=February 23, 2026 |website=garagewire.co.uk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Howard |first=Phoebe Wall |date=July 11, 2019 |title=Ford knew Focus, Fiesta models had flawed transmission, sold them anyway |url=https://www.freep.com/in-depth/money/cars/ford/2019/07/11/ford-focus-fiesta-transmission-defect/1671198001/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260221023357/https://www.freep.com/in-depth/money/cars/ford/2019/07/11/ford-focus-fiesta-transmission-defect/1671198001/ |archive-date=February 21, 2026 |website=Detroit Free Press}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 11, 2023 |title=Automatic Software Update Bricked my Truck |url=https://www.fordraptorforum.com/threads/automatic-software-update-bricked-my-truck.96624/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250415151514/https://www.fordraptorforum.com/threads/automatic-software-update-bricked-my-truck.96624/ |archive-date=April 15, 2025 |website=www.fordraptorforum.com}}</ref> | ||
:Ford has had the highest number of vehicle recalls in the U.S. in 2021, 2022, and 2023. While recall volume can be influenced by market share, larger automakers often have more recalls, it may also reflect differences in production quality compared to competitors.<ref>https://datahub.transportation.gov/stories/s/NHTSA-Recalls-by-Manufacturer/38mw-dp8u/ | :Ford has had the highest number of vehicle recalls in the U.S. in 2021, 2022, and 2023. While recall volume can be influenced by market share, larger automakers often have more recalls, it may also reflect differences in production quality compared to competitors.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NHTSA Recalls by Manufacturer |url=https://datahub.transportation.gov/stories/s/NHTSA-Recalls-by-Manufacturer/38mw-dp8u/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260203181946/https://datahub.transportation.gov/stories/s/NHTSA-Recalls-by-Manufacturer/38mw-dp8u/ |archive-date=February 3, 2026 |website=datahub.transportation.gov}}</ref> | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
<references /> | <references /> | ||
[[Category:Ford]] | [[Category:Ford]] | ||
Revision as of 18:25, 27 February 2026
Ford
| Basic information | |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1903 |
| Legal Structure | Public |
| Industry | Automotive |
| Also known as | |
| Official website | https://ford.com/ |
The Ford Motor Company was founded in 1903 by Henry Ford in Detroit, Michigan. With the introduction of a moving assembly line, Ford drastically reduced the cost and time of automobile production, making cars affordable for the masses and transforming industrial production globally. It is one of the oldest and largest automobile manufacturers, one of the "Big Three" American automakers, alongside General Motors (GM) and Stellantis (formerly Chrysler).
Consumer protection summary
User privacy
- Ford’s data collection practices and privacy policies have raised significant concerns:
- Extensive data collection: Ford collects a wide range of personal and vehicle data, including location, driving behavior (speed, braking), voice commands, media preferences, and even passenger information. This data is linked to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be tied to individual users.[1]
- Data collected includes purchase history, financial information, coarse and precise location data, contact information, identifiers (e.g., VIN, account ID), user-generated content (e.g., voice recordings from smart features), search and browsing history for advertising purposes, usage data, sensitive information (under "Inferences"), diagnostics, and more.[1]
- Aggregates data from external sources as well, including users' social media posts.[1]
- Privacy policy is designed to prevent quickly searching for important terms.[1]
- Lack of transparency and control: Users are often unaware of the scope of data collection, and Ford’s policies allow sharing with affiliates, dealers, advertisers, and law enforcement. The company reserves the right to override location settings in certain circumstances (e.g., repossession, legal requests).[2]
- Security vulnerabilities: Past incidents, such as cybersecurity flaws in the FordPass app and exposed customer records, highlight risks of data breaches. Ford has been criticized for dismissing external reports of vulnerabilities.[3]
- According to CCPA Metrics from 2023, there were 96 requests for data to be deleted, and seven of these requests were denied.[1]
User freedom
- Limited opt-out options: Ford’s default settings opt users into data collection, with no clear path to fully delete data. Passengers and secondary drivers must also be informed of data collection, placing the burden on the primary user.[1]
- Forced connectivity: Features like FordPass require data sharing for basic functionalities (e.g., remote start, tire pressure checks), limiting user choice.[2]
Business model
- Data monetization: Ford’s business model leverages user data for targeted advertising, joint marketing, and partnerships (e.g., Sirius XM). This aligns with broader industry trends where data is a revenue driver.
- AI and surveillance: Investments in AI (e.g., Baidu’s SYNC system in China) enable deeper user profiling, raising ethical questions about surveillance and consent.[4]
Market control
- Dealership consolidation: Ford’s acquisitions of dealerships (e.g., Freedom Ford) have drawn scrutiny from competition regulators. While deemed non-antitrust, such consolidation can reduce local competition and consumer choice.[3]
- Dependence on connected services: By integrating AI and IoT (e.g., autonomous vehicles, CarStory analytics), Ford reinforces market dominance in connected car technology, potentially stifling smaller competitors.
Anti-consumer practices
-
- Ford has secured patents for systems that are unrelated to core driving functions and involve consumer data collection. One patented system can deliver targeted advertisements based on in-vehicle conversations, while another relates to vehicle repossession and allows for access restrictions (e.g., in cases of missed payments). Ford has clarified that holding these patents does not necessarily mean they will be implemented in future products. However, the existence of such systems could influence consumer perceptions of the company and affect their willingness to accept certain sales terms.[6][7]
- Engineering practices
- Some engine designs use a rubber belt—rather than a metal chain—to drive the oil pump. This belt operates submerged in engine oil and may wear out prematurely, potentially leading to a sudden loss of oil pressure. Additionally, they have released transmission systems in certain Fiesta and Focus models that have experienced issues, including loss of power during acceleration, gear shifting, or at constant speeds, as well as unintended acceleration. It has been reported that a software update rendered a vehicle inoperable.[8][9][10]
- Ford has had the highest number of vehicle recalls in the U.S. in 2021, 2022, and 2023. While recall volume can be influenced by market share, larger automakers often have more recalls, it may also reflect differences in production quality compared to competitors.[11]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 "Privacy". Ford. Archived from the original on February 10, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Elvy, Stacy-Ann. "Paying for Privacy and the Personal Data Economy". Columbia Law Review. Archived from the original on 4 Nov 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Ford". mozillafoundation.org. August 15, 2023. Archived from the original on 23 Feb 2026.
- ↑ Marr, Bernard (July 2, 2021). "The Amazing Ways The Ford Motor Company Uses Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning". Archived from the original on 19 Feb 2026.
- ↑ "Acquisition of Freedom Ford Sales Limited by 1911265 Alberta Ltd". Competition Bureau Canada. Archived from the original on 20 Aug 2025.
- ↑ Gitlin, Jonathan M. (March 2, 2023). "Ford files patent for system that could remotely repossess a car". Ars Technica. Archived from the original on February 23, 2026.
- ↑ Smalley, Suzanne (September 9, 2024). "Ford seeks patent for tech that listens to driver conversations to serve ads". therecord.media. Archived from the original on January 1, 2026.
- ↑ Braithwaite-Smith, Gavin (February 23, 2026). "BBC Watchdog shines light on Ford EcoBoost wet belt problem". garagewire.co.uk. Archived from the original on February 23, 2026.
- ↑ Howard, Phoebe Wall (July 11, 2019). "Ford knew Focus, Fiesta models had flawed transmission, sold them anyway". Detroit Free Press. Archived from the original on February 21, 2026.
- ↑ "Automatic Software Update Bricked my Truck". www.fordraptorforum.com. March 11, 2023. Archived from the original on April 15, 2025.
- ↑ "NHTSA Recalls by Manufacturer". datahub.transportation.gov. Archived from the original on February 3, 2026.