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Why Ford Is Bringing Back Buttons

· 4 min read

Safety First in the 2025 Lineup

Though there is a trend among auto makers to allow drivers to control most things from the digital instrument cluster, vehicle interiors often benefit from leaving certain physical buttons intact. Updated safety guidelines from EuroNCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) has led to a shift back to physical car buttons. EuroNCAP played its hand well here by disqualifying from a coveted five-star safety rating in Europe any vehicle that does not have buttons, dials, or stalks for windshield wipers, SOS calls, the horn, hazard lights, and indicators. Though that is a European initiative, you can expect vehicles in the United States to reflect these new standards. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) may also rate vehicles according to buttons.As such, automakers across the industry are adapting to this new safety standard by updating in-car controls to include more buttons and less touchscreen dependency. At Jim O’Neal Ford, we’re proud to offer 2025 models that prioritize driver safety and intuitive design, blending modern tech with timeless practicality.The Rationale Behind the Return of ButtonsThe main issue is that studies have indicated that touchscreen usage can end up making tasks like adjusting the radio time-consuming. Consider the radio example. With mere knobs, you can readily keep your eyes on the road while fiddling the volume or channel knob to adjust to your liking. Whereas with a screen, you will likely need to look at the screen to first find the digital button, then make an adjustment. Also, there is a lot more "infotainment" on a screen that could distract the driver, whereas a button is, well, just a button. This can also shift some cost savings back to the driver because if the touchscreen malfunctions and needs repairing, essential features can still be operated with a button. Whereas the more features are touchscreen-only, the more essential it will be to fix the touchscreen to restore all of those features. Ford's Safety-Centric RedesignJanuary 2026 is when the EuroNCAP safety-rating update will take effect. The announcement was in 2024, so automakers have had time to update their designs accordingly. Drivers of Ford vehicles know that Ford is well-equipped to meet these standards, as tactile controls have always been a mainstay of these vehicles even as tech has progressed. Ford's hybrid approach is still intact in the 2025 lineup, as can be seen in the 2025 Ford F-150's interior. Why This Is Good News for Ford DriversWith these new standards in place, drivers who prefer buttons can rest assured that Ford will continue to make buttons, dials, stalks, and other physical controls a priority in the interior's design. For drivers wondering how keeping these buttons in place could be beneficial, consider the following reasons: 
  • Safety: For a given task, using a touchscreen-based system can require more time than pressing a physical button. Tactile controls can reduce distraction, which is a major cause of traffic accidents.
  • Muscle Memory and Intuition: Physical buttons allow for “eyes-free” operation thanks to muscle memory. When a driver becomes familiar with their car’s layout, they can make adjustments without looking down. This is nearly impossible with flat, non-tactile touchscreens.
  • Keeps Your Mind on the Road: Navigating through screen menus takes attention away from driving. Physical buttons for routine tasks can keep drivers focused and reduce mental fatigue on long drives.
  • Inclusivity for All Drivers: Not everyone is equally tech-savvy. For older drivers or those who simply prefer a more straightforward user experience, physical controls offer greater accessibility and confidence behind the wheel.
The EuroNCAP-spurred design shift could be seen as an affirmation of the design principle that if it is not broken, don't fix it. Buttons' functions can be digitally activated via touchscreen, but that does not necessarily mean that an improvement is in place. And, as has been shown in studies, the promise of convenience in digital transformation does not always come to fruition, as drivers may spend more time manipulating a touchscreen than working a knob to get the exact same result. Usability, safety, and greater driver satisfaction could result from the retention and restoration of physical buttons. At Jim O’Neal Ford, we understand that these are core features of a great driving experience, which is why we believe that physical buttons can keep Ford vehicles a great choice. 2025 Ford Vehicles Available at Jim O'Neal FordWe invite you to visit Jim O’Neal Ford in Sellersburg, Indiana, just a short drive from nearby Louisville, KY, to test drive the 2025 models and experience the intuitive physical controls for yourself. We will help you find the perfect vehicle that blends form, function, and Ford’s signature dependability.Safety features are about more than just airbags and braking systems, but in the small details as well. A safe driving experience depends on the everyday experience of driving motor vehicles, and Ford ensures that what's worth keeping will stay intact.Looking to buy a 2025 Ford vehicle? Visit Jim O’Neal Ford today!  

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