What is Hill Start Assist?
Get to know Hill Start Assist, an intelligent technology from Ford that prevents the vehicle from rolling when starting on an incline. This feature enhances confidence and convenience in every drive. Learn how it works and discover important safety precautions for various situations.
What is Hill Start Assist?
Hill Start Assist (HSA) is a driver-assist feature designed to increase convenience and safety when pulling away on an incline. It allows you to start smoothly without worrying about the vehicle rolling in the opposite direction.
How the System Works
When you stop on a slope and lift your foot off the brake pedal, the system automatically activates to hold the vehicle's brakes for approximately 2–3 seconds. This window provides enough time to confidently move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator. The brakes are released automatically when:
- You depress the accelerator pedal to pull away.
- Or when the system's timed duration is reached.
Operating Conditions
The system will activate when the vehicle is in the following scenarios:
- The transmission is in a forward gear and the vehicle is stopped on an uphill slope.
- The transmission is in reverse (R) and the vehicle is stopped on a downhill slope.
Important Notes and Precautions
- Not a Parking Brake: This system is designed only for temporary assistance during takeoff; it does not replace the parking brake. You should always apply the parking brake whenever you park and exit the vehicle.
- Driver Focus: You must remain in the vehicle and stay focused on controlling the car at all times while the system is active, including being ready to intervene or manage the system if necessary.
- Safety: If the system detects an operational fault, it will automatically deactivate for safety.
Understanding the Hill Start Assist system will help you utilize your Ford vehicle to its full potential and drive more safely. For specific information regarding your vehicle model, please refer to your Ford Owner’s Manual.