Handing over their keys to a teenage driver is one of the most worrisome things a parent can do, but with Ford’s new MyKey technology parents have more control over their child’s driving – even when they are not in the car with them.

Ford’s newest added feature to MyKey technology is the Do Not Disturb feature which allows parents to block teens from receiving phone calls and deter text messages while driving. This feature will be available on all 2011 vehicles featuring SYNC with MyFord Touch.

When hooked up to SYNC the new feature will block all incoming calls or text messages from a Bluetooth-paired mobile phone, diverting calls into voicemail and saving text messages on the device for viewing later. Drivers can still make voice-activated outgoing phone calls and the SYNC 911 Assist feature can make a call in case of emergency.

“Adding Do Not Disturb to MyKey is yet another way Ford is helping parents to encourage their kids to drive safer,” said Andy Sarkisian, Ford Safey Planning and Strategy manager. “We are continually listening to our customers and responding to parents’ desire to make sure their kids are paying attention to the road, not their cell phone.”

The MyKey system allows parents to program any key through the vehicle message center. These additional features include:

- “No belts, no tunes” feature that mutes audio system until front occupants buckle up

- The ability to block satellite radio channels carrying adult programming

- Volume control that can limit the audio system to 44% of maximum output

- Traction control system cannot be deactivated

- A speed chime alert at 45, 55 or 65 mph

- Early low-fuel warning beginning at 75 miles until empty

“Our dealers tell us that when they have a buyer with kids in the house and they mention the MyKey feature, every single one of them says, ‘How do I turn that on?’ Customers are very happy with the feature,” Sarkisian said.