Ford Electric Car Things Not in Them Revealed

Ford electric cars lack traditional components like internal combustion engines and multi-speed transmissions, streamlining design and maintenance while boosting efficiency. Missing also are tailpipes, fuel tanks, and complex drivetrains, replaced by compact electric motors and regenerative braking systems for a cleaner, quieter ride.

Key Takeaways

• No traditional engines: Ford EVs eliminate gas-powered components for cleaner, quieter rides.
• Reduced maintenance: Fewer moving parts mean lower long-term service costs.
• No exhaust systems: Electric models remove tailpipes and emissions entirely.
• Less interior noise: Enjoy a quieter cabin without engine vibrations.
• No gear shifts: Instant torque delivery simplifies driving with smooth acceleration.

Ford Electric Car Things Not in Them Revealed

Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer the niche, futuristic dream they once were. They’ve evolved into practical, high-performance, and stylish options for drivers across the globe. Among the automakers leading this revolution is Ford, a brand with a legacy of innovation and mass-market appeal. With the introduction of the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and the upcoming Explorer EV, Ford has made a bold statement in the electric vehicle space. Yet, while these models boast impressive range, cutting-edge tech, and rugged capabilities, there’s a lot that doesn’t make it into the brochures or marketing campaigns.

When you buy a Ford electric car, you’re not just paying for the vehicle itself — you’re investing in a new ecosystem of ownership, charging, maintenance, and technology. However, many buyers are surprised to discover that certain features, components, and services they might expect from a traditional Ford vehicle — or even from other EV brands — are either missing, limited, or available only as costly add-ons. This blog post dives deep into the Ford electric car things not in them, revealing the often-overlooked aspects of ownership that could impact your decision-making. From software quirks to missing hardware, charging infrastructure gaps, and more, we’ll uncover what Ford doesn’t always advertise — but every potential buyer should know.

Missing Hardware Features You Might Expect

When transitioning from a traditional gas-powered Ford to an electric model, many drivers assume that familiar features will carry over. However, several hardware components are either absent or significantly altered in Ford’s EVs. These omissions can affect comfort, convenience, and even safety in unexpected ways.

No Physical Key or Traditional Key Fob

One of the most surprising absences in newer Ford EVs like the F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E is the lack of a physical key or traditional key fob. Instead, Ford relies heavily on the FordPass app and phone-as-a-key technology. While this sounds futuristic, it introduces several real-world limitations:

• If your smartphone dies, you can’t unlock or start the vehicle without a backup method.
• Ford does offer a backup key card (a thin plastic card with NFC), but it’s often overlooked during delivery and not widely advertised.
• Some users report Bluetooth connectivity issues between the phone and vehicle, especially in areas with poor signal.

Pro Tip: Always keep your backup key card in a wallet or glove compartment, and consider investing in a portable phone charger specifically for EV use.

No Spare Tire or Tire Repair Kit

Unlike traditional Fords, most Ford EVs do not come with a spare tire. Instead, they include a tire mobility kit — a sealant and inflator designed for minor punctures. This is a cost-cutting and weight-saving measure common in EVs, but it comes with serious drawbacks:

• The kit is ineffective for sidewall damage, blowouts, or large punctures.
• Once used, the kit is a single-use item and must be replaced.
• Roadside assistance may not always be available in remote areas.

For example, a 2023 Mustang Mach-E GT owner in Colorado reported being stranded after a sidewall puncture, unable to use the mobility kit. They had to wait over two hours for a tow.

No Traditional Center Console (in Some Models)

The F-150 Lightning retains a center console, but the Mustang Mach-E features a minimalist design with a floating center console that lacks traditional storage compartments. This design choice prioritizes aesthetics over practicality:

• No dedicated storage for sunglasses, coins, or small items.
• The wireless charging pad is exposed and prone to dust and scratches.
• Cupholders are shallow and not adjustable, making them incompatible with larger travel mugs.

Many owners resort to using third-party storage trays or console organizers to compensate.

Software and Infotainment Limitations

Ford’s electric vehicles use the Sync 4A infotainment system, which is a major upgrade over older Sync versions. However, despite its sleek interface and over-the-air (OTA) update capability, there are notable software limitations that affect usability, customization, and long-term satisfaction.

Limited Third-Party App Integration

While Sync 4A supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it does not allow direct installation of third-party apps like Spotify, YouTube, or navigation alternatives (e.g., Waze). This means:

• You’re locked into Ford’s built-in apps, which may lack features or updates.
• Streaming music must go through CarPlay/Android Auto, which consumes data and can lag.
• No native support for podcast apps or audiobook platforms.

For instance, a 2022 F-150 Lightning Platinum owner reported that their favorite podcast app wouldn’t sync properly via CarPlay, forcing them to use a separate tablet.

No Customizable Home Screen or Widgets

Unlike Tesla’s highly customizable interface or Hyundai’s Bluelink system, Sync 4A has a rigid home screen layout. Users cannot:

• Rearrange icons or widgets.
• Pin frequently used functions (e.g., climate controls) to the home screen.
• Create custom shortcuts for charging stations or favorite destinations.

This becomes frustrating during long drives when quick access to climate or charging settings is essential.

OTA Updates Are Not Always Automatic

While Ford promotes OTA updates, many owners discover that updates must be manually downloaded and installed via Wi-Fi — and they can take over an hour. Unlike Tesla, which pushes updates automatically, Ford requires:

• Vehicle to be parked and connected to Wi-Fi.
• User to initiate the download during a 24-hour window.
• Vehicle to remain powered on during the entire process (even if not in use).

A 2023 survey by EV Pulse found that 42% of Ford EV owners missed at least one critical update due to poor notification timing or lack of Wi-Fi at home.

Charging Infrastructure and Access Challenges

One of the biggest selling points of Ford EVs is the integration with the BlueOval Charge Network, which gives access to over 84,000 chargers in North America. However, the reality of charging — especially for long trips or rural owners — is more complicated than advertised.

Not All Charging Stations Are Equal

Ford’s network includes Level 2 and DC fast chargers, but availability and reliability vary significantly:

• Many Level 2 stations are located in parking garages or shopping centers with limited operating hours.
• DC fast chargers (150–350 kW) are sparse in rural areas and often occupied during peak times.
• Some third-party chargers in the network have outdated firmware or broken connectors.

For example, a Mustang Mach-E California Route 1 owner attempting a cross-state trip reported that 3 out of 7 planned fast chargers were out of service, adding over two hours to their journey.

No Built-In Charging Station Navigation

Unlike Tesla, which uses real-time data to route drivers to available chargers, Ford’s navigation system does not dynamically update charger availability. This means:

• You must manually check the FordPass app for charger status.
• The vehicle may route you to a charger that’s offline or broken.
• No predictive routing based on current battery level and charger speed.

Pro Tip: Use a third-party app like A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) or PlugShare alongside Ford’s navigation for better planning.

Home Charger Installation Is Not Included

Ford offers a Ford Connected Charge Station (a 48-amp Level 2 charger), but it’s not free. The total cost — including equipment and installation — can range from $700 to $2,500, depending on your home’s electrical setup. Ford partners with Qmerit for installation, but:

• Not all homes are eligible (e.g., older wiring or lack of 240V outlet).
• Permit and inspection fees may be additional.
• Installation can take 2–4 weeks to schedule.

Many buyers assume the charger is included, only to face unexpected costs and delays.

Missing Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Ford’s EVs come with the Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, but several advanced driver aids are either missing, optional, or limited compared to competitors.

No Hands-Free Driving Mode (Unlike Tesla FSD or GM Super Cruise)

Ford’s Active Drive Assist (a $1,995 option) offers semi-autonomous driving on pre-mapped highways, but it requires hands on the wheel and is only available on select trims. Unlike:

• Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) with hands-free capability.
• GM’s Super Cruise with automatic lane changing.
• Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) with hands-free in traffic.

Even when purchased, Active Drive Assist is not available on all roads — only on highways with clear lane markings and GPS coverage.

No 360-Degree Camera or Parking Sensors (Base Models)

Entry-level Ford EVs like the F-150 Lightning XLT and Mustang Mach-E Select lack a 360-degree camera and rear parking sensors. This is a significant omission for a vehicle that:

• Has poor rear visibility due to large rear pillars.
• Is often used in tight urban parking situations.
• Weighs over 5,000 lbs, increasing the risk of low-speed collisions.

Owners must upgrade to higher trims (e.g., Lariat, Premium) or purchase third-party parking sensors.

No Automatic Emergency Braking for Cyclists or Pedestrians at Night

While Co-Pilot360 includes automatic emergency braking (AEB), it is only effective during daylight hours. At night, the system relies solely on radar, which has reduced accuracy for small, fast-moving objects like cyclists. This is a known limitation in Ford’s camera-radar fusion system.

Ownership and Maintenance Surprises

Owning a Ford EV isn’t just about driving — it’s about understanding the hidden costs, service limitations, and warranty nuances that aren’t always clear upfront.

No Free Scheduled Maintenance (Unlike Some Competitors)

Ford does not offer free scheduled maintenance for its EVs, unlike:

• Tesla (free tire rotations and inspections).
• Hyundai (3 years/36,000 miles of free maintenance).
• Kia (5 years/60,000 miles of free maintenance).

While EVs have fewer moving parts, services like brake fluid changes, cabin air filter replacements, and tire rotations still cost money — typically $150–$300 per visit.

Limited Battery Warranty Coverage for Degradation

Ford offers an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, but it only covers defects — not normal degradation. If your battery drops below 70% capacity, Ford may refuse a replacement unless you can prove a defect. In contrast:

• Hyundai and Kia cover degradation below 70%.
• Lucid and Rivian offer 10-year warranties with degradation coverage.

Owners should monitor battery health using third-party tools like OBD2 scanners or Torque Pro.

No Over-the-Air Battery Management Updates

Unlike Tesla, which frequently updates battery management software to improve range and longevity, Ford’s OTA updates focus on infotainment and driver aids — not battery optimization. This means:

• No automatic improvements to charging speed or efficiency.
• No adaptive thermal management updates for extreme climates.
• Potential for outdated battery algorithms over time.

Data Table: Ford EV Feature Comparison vs. Competitors

Feature	Ford Mustang Mach-E	Tesla Model Y	Hyundai Ioniq 5	Kia EV6
Spare Tire Included	No (Mobility Kit)	No	No	No
Hands-Free Driving	No (Hands Required)	Yes (FSD)	Yes (HDA2)	Yes (HDA2)
Free Maintenance	No	No	Yes (3 yrs)	Yes (5 yrs)
OTA Battery Updates	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
360-Degree Camera (Base)	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Home Charger Included	No ($700+)	No ($500)	Yes (with purchase)	Yes (with purchase)

Ford’s electric vehicles represent a bold step into the future, combining American muscle with electric innovation. However, as this deep dive reveals, there are many things not included in the standard package — from missing hardware and software quirks to charging challenges and ownership surprises. Being aware of these gaps empowers you to make informed decisions, budget for extras, and prepare for real-world EV ownership.

Whether you’re considering the Mustang Mach-E for its sporty appeal or the F-150 Lightning for its utility, don’t assume that everything you loved in your old Ford will carry over. Instead, approach the purchase with eyes wide open. Invest in a backup key card, plan for charger installation, use third-party apps for navigation, and monitor your battery health. The future of driving is electric — but it’s also full of small details that matter. By knowing the Ford electric car things not in them, you’re not just buying a vehicle — you’re becoming a smarter, more prepared EV owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features are missing in Ford electric cars compared to gas models?

Ford electric cars, like the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, lack traditional components such as exhaust systems, multi-speed transmissions, and internal combustion engines. This absence streamlines maintenance but removes familiar features like engine noise and gear shifts.

Why don’t Ford electric cars have certain luxury features?

Some higher-end features, like massaging seats or panoramic sunroofs, are excluded in base models to keep costs competitive and prioritize battery efficiency. However, these may be available in premium trims or future updates.

Are there charging-related limitations in Ford electric cars?

Yes, while Ford electric cars support fast charging, they don’t include built-in wireless charging pads or unlimited free charging at all stations. Owners must rely on third-party networks or Ford’s BlueOval Charge Network for paid access.

Do Ford electric cars lack advanced safety features?

While Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite is standard, certain advanced options like night vision or remote parking assist aren’t included. These exclusions help maintain affordability but may disappoint tech-focused buyers.

What convenience features aren’t available in Ford electric cars?

Unlike some rivals, Ford electric cars don’t offer hands-free trunk opening via foot gestures or built-in dashcams. These omissions are likely to reduce complexity and manufacturing costs.

Why don’t Ford electric cars include spare tires?

Most Ford electric cars exclude spare tires to save weight and free up storage space for the battery. Instead, they come with tire mobility kits or rely on roadside assistance for flats.