Ford Oz launches COVID-19 service pick-up, drop-off

FORD has launched a new, complimentary service pick-up and drop off initiative designed to “make life easier for Australian customers” during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

Aptly named the ‘Ford Pick Up and Drop Off service’, the new initiative adds an extra level of convenience to the servicing process, with customers no longer having to drop their vehicle off or pick it back up again from the service centres.

Set to be in place until June 30, the new service is comprised of three main elements, the first being the obvious vehicle pick-up and drop-off.

The second element is the thorough disinfection of all key touchpoints both on and within the customer’s car including all exterior and interior door handles, steering wheel (including buttons), centre console, gear shifter/selector, park brake handle, radio/HVAC areas, touchscreen, start/stop button, driver’s door armrest and centre console, window, seat and mirror controls, rearview mirror, seatbelt buckle and anchor, rear boot lid, tailgate button/handle, bonnet and latch, fuel door and key fob.

The third element is the addition of cashless payment options like mobile payments.

Ford Australia and New Zealand president and CEO Kay Hart said the initiative provided service customers with the reassurance their vehicle could still be properly serviced without them having to leave the house and “the peace of mind that their vehicle is disinfected”.

“We’re pleased to be working with our dealers to find ways to ensure customers can continue to enjoy uninterrupted and safe services during this time,” she said.

The disinfectant in question is an alcohol-based anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral agent which avoids damage to plastics, elastomers and rubbers.

Ford Australia National Dealer Council chairman John Cooper said the new services “build on the strict hygiene and sanitation processes we’ve built in across the network”.