In the event of a serious crash, Sync's "911 Assist" service will automatically dial 911 using your cell phone, summoning help right away. If you're unable to speak, a prerecorded message will tell the 911 operator that there's been a crash. (You will be able to cancel the call within 10 seconds.) The 911 system should be able to locate you using the cell phone's signal or GPS technology on newer phones.
Sync will also soon add Vehicle Heath Reports, competing with OnStar's Vehicle Diagnostics service. Information about the condition of your car can be sent, through your cell phone to a server at Ford where a detailed report is generated. Users can view Vehicle Health Reports online.
Where GM's OnStar relies on a separate cell phone built into the car, Ford's Sync uses the driver's own phone.
The advantage is that Sync buyers don't have to pay a monthly subscription fee to use these services. The cell phone plan you have already covers that.
OnStar argues that its service is more robust and can be used in places where most hand-held cell phones won't work. OnStar also isn't reliant on the driver having his or her cell phone turned on inside the car.
