A few days ago, we castigated the industry for adding too many drive modes and credited Lexus with adding an Auto mode to relieve their drivers of the added headache. We also specifically called out Ford, when in fact Ford got it right too!
We were so caught up in Ford adding at total of 28 new modes and control options to its new Bronco models that we missed this final bit, which we spotted while adding yet more drive modes from Toyota.
The quote is ours on our Special Drive Mode page: “And the final surprise is that the same vehicles that use the image symbols offer an AUTO setting, Multi-terrain Select control or MTS AUTO, that will simply choose exactly the mode that is needed.”
And you see the symbol to the right. In all seriousness, does anyone have the time to run through 28 options? Or 15 from Lexus? No, unless they are independently wealthy and/or with little else to do.
The point is, it used to be a driver had a choice of two-wheel drive with a 4-wheel drive option for bad weather or off road. Then came all-wheel drive with an option to lock the axles off road or in bad weather.
The introduction of multiple modes for varying terrain becomes a burden for the driver. And clearly those options are computer driven — why not have the car do the work??
Its the right way to go and we issue an apology to Ford for missing their auto option and send a pat on the back for adding it.
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The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY
Ford got it right too…
A few days ago, we castigated the industry for adding too many drive modes and credited Lexus with adding an Auto mode to relieve their drivers of the added headache. We also specifically called out Ford, when in fact Ford got it right too!
We were so caught up in Ford adding at total of 28 new modes and control options to its new Bronco models that we missed this final bit, which we spotted while adding yet more drive modes from Toyota.
And you see the symbol to the right. In all seriousness, does anyone have the time to run through 28 options? Or 15 from Lexus? No, unless they are independently wealthy and/or with little else to do.
The point is, it used to be a driver had a choice of two-wheel drive with a 4-wheel drive option for bad weather or off road. Then came all-wheel drive with an option to lock the axles off road or in bad weather.
The introduction of multiple modes for varying terrain becomes a burden for the driver. And clearly those options are computer driven — why not have the car do the work??
Its the right way to go and we issue an apology to Ford for missing their auto option and send a pat on the back for adding it.
——————————————————————-
The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
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The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY