Considering a Lightning but Unsure About the Infotainment Screen

F150 Models Forum F150Lightning
1

Hello everyone! I’m looking into possibly purchasing a Lightning for daily commuting. Currently, I have a Silverado that has served me well, but I’m interested in long-term usability and saving on gas expenses.

I’m open to driving an EV; however, the large touchscreen in the Lightning is quite off-putting for me. I prefer physical buttons for ease of use and the ability to change settings while driving. It also seems noticeably slower compared to other options.

How do you all find the infotainment system? Any issues?

Thanks!

2

The XLT has a smaller, more traditional screen. I love mine!

3

Consider getting an XLT with Extended Range.

4

Onyx said:
Consider getting an XLT with Extended Range.

Do they still make those?

5

Bly said:

Onyx said:
Consider getting an XLT with Extended Range.

Do they still make those?

Yes, they do!

6

Vanya said:

Bly said:
Onyx said:
Consider getting an XLT with Extended Range.

Do they still make those?

Yes, they do!

Pretty sure the answer is no. I think you need to get a Flash.

7

The screen was the main reason I opted for the Flash instead of the XLT.

8

Wes said:
The screen was the main reason I opted for the Flash instead of the XLT.

Same! The large map display is fantastic.

9

Teal said:

Wes said:
The screen was the main reason I opted for the Flash instead of the XLT.

Same! The large map display is fantastic.

+1 for the big maps!

10

Wes said:
The screen was the main reason I opted for the Flash instead of the XLT.

The screen is why I chose the XLT instead of Flash or Lariat.

11

Wes said:
The screen was the main reason I opted for the Flash instead of the XLT.

The usability trade-off is (almost) worth it for simple functions. I’ve gotten used to using my voice for those functions.

12

You can experience a more traditional small-screen setup with the XLT, which includes a 12" infotainment screen and more buttons compared to the higher trims. The main drawbacks of the XLT are that it is the standard-range model, and I find the seats less comfortable.

The Flash, Lariat, and Platinum trims come with the large 15" infotainment screen you may have seen with the Lightning, and they are the extended-range models with upgraded seats, BlueCruise, and other features.

I find the built-in infotainment functional but not exciting. It gets the job done—playing FM or XM radio, providing maps, allowing hands-free calls, and setting vehicle options (sport, off-road, etc.).

Many who dislike the Ford infotainment system use CarPlay or Android Auto to display their phone interface on the truck’s screen, where the larger center screen excels, providing ample space for the phone UI with larger touchscreen targets. It’s integrated with Apple Maps or Google Maps, so you can check your state of charge, plan trips, play music, make calls, and use other apps.

13

@Dustin
With iOS 18.4 (currently in beta), the CarPlay interface has improved on these larger screens, showing a more densely packed home screen (three rows).

14

Both the PRO and XLT models have a ‘normal’ screen with buttons if that’s your preference.

Edit: I have a PRO, and the interior layout with screen and buttons is very nice.

15

What specific buttons are you concerned about?

With the controls on the steering wheel and voice control, I hardly ever touch the main screen. There are also physical buttons on the left side of the steering wheel for controlling the frunk and tailgate, along with other functions depending on your trim.

16

While driving, I don’t interact much with the touchscreen. It seems like there’s a button for everything. I used to have a Tesla with few buttons.

17

I just set the HVAC to auto for settings 1, 2, or 3 and leave it there. The heated and ventilated seats also have an auto setting for the 2024 models. I love the big screen, and CarPlay/Android Auto is fantastic with it. Yes, it can be slow initially for a few seconds when you start the truck, but it smooths out.

18

@Harlan
If you don’t want the large screen, you’re limited to the 2024 XLT standard range. Alternatively, look for a 2023 or earlier XLT that allows for a larger battery.

19

I wasn’t thrilled about the large screen when I purchased it, but I’ve found it functional and I love the giant map display.

You have physical buttons on the steering wheel for commonly used features, so you mostly use the screen for HVAC, seat warmers, or navigation.

20

I was unsure about the big screen, but it has been great. I don’t often need to touch the touchscreen for anything other than buttons. When I do, it’s just one tap instead of navigating through menus, except for adjusting vent settings, which I rarely change.