Ford offers software upgrade for older models

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FordPass Smartlink will be available in the US this summer

Millions of customers will be able to upgrade the connectivity in their older-model Ford vehicles to include a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, smartphone control of existing key fob features, vehicle health, security alerts, and vehicle location tracking.

The operation is quite simple. Using a simple device that plugs into the OBD II port below the steering wheel, the new FordPass SmartLink experience gives owners of 2010-17 model year Ford vehicles connectivity features normally available only on newer vehicles equipped with modems.

“We believe offering an affordable way for our customers to upgrade their older-model vehicles to include more modern technology will improve their ownership experience for years to come," said Frederiek Toney, president, Global, Ford Customer Service Division.

FordPass SmartLink customers pay $16.99 a month, plus installation, for 24 months to purchase the device and receive telematics services that enable remote key fob, location, and vehicle health features. Also included is a complimentary trial of a Verizon 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot with 1 gigabyte or 30 days of data – whichever comes first.

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SmartLink enrollment is now open exclusively through Ford dealerships across the United States with national availability expected by mid-2018.

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