Hill Start Assist Not Available Ford: Causes, And Fixes
Are you encountering “Hill Start Assist Not Available” on your Ford, BMW, or Jeep dashboard? When looking for a solution, why does it appear?
The HSA (Hill Start Assist) is a frequent function in modern vehicles that is specially designed to prevent rollback when starting on an incline. Today’s article will delve into what Hill Start Assist is, the reasons behind this error, its symptoms, and how to fix it.
What Is Hill Start Assist?
Multiple features in vehicles help in driving; Hill Start Assist is one of the features that allows drivers to roll their cars backward when braking on a hill. Its function is to hold the brake pressure temporarily for some seconds and give time to the driver to accelerate forward. This feature is especially functional for vehicles with manual transmission or when you’re driving in hilly areas.
If the vehicle’s computing system finds the Hill Start Assist (HSA) malfunctioning, it will display a warning message, “Hill Start Assist Not Available.” This message is a signal that shows that the system has been disabled or not working properly.
Common Causes For Hill Start Assist Not Available Error
Several reasons can cause this message to display on the instrument panel. Here are some of the most common cases that might cause this error message to appear:
Faulty Sensors
To operate and function precisely, the Hill Start Assist depends on some sensors like the incline sensor, brake pressure sensor, and wheel speed sensor. Because HSA relies on these sensors, in case of failure of any of these sensors, the system may stop working, illuminating the warning light.
Faulty ABS Module
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is another safety feature that prevents vehicles from locking during braking. ABS also plays a significant role in Hill Start Assist. However, the HSA stops working if the system detects the ABS module or any of its elements is faulty or failed.
Battery Issues
The Hill Start Assist is an electronic system that is similar to the Electronic Stability Control (ESC), So a dead battery or a battery with low voltage can be the reason for the temporary unavailability of the feature.
Software Issues
There is also a software facility to control and operate various systems, including HSA. Any glitch or issue in the software could be the reason for system unavailability.
Sensor Calibration
Recalibration after service or repair is a basic need of the system, so sometimes the message displays. Moreover, the miscalibrated sensors can cause false readings, making the Hill Start Assist feature unavailable.
Brake System Problems
Problems with the brakes can also cause that issue; for example, the HSA might not be able to function properly if the brakes are worn out or experiencing any problem with the brake fluid level.
Symptoms Of Hill Start Assist Failure
When the Hill Start Assist is not functioning properly on your vehicle, you may experience some symptoms that are given below:
- Dashboard warning
- Rollback
- ABS light on
- Traction control light
How To Fix Hill Start Assist Not Available?
The process of fixing “Hill Start Assist Not Available Ford” can vary depending on the vehicle model year and the underlying issue. Therefore, here are some fixes that you can follow:
Inspect And Replace Faulty Sensors
Having a professional mechanic run a diagnostic test can give you the exact idea of whether the sensor is faulty or not. Replacement of a malfunctioned incline or wheel speed sensor normally fixes the issue.
Battery Check
A low or weak battery can be the reason for the HSA system’s unavailability for a short time. To prevent the error that occurs specifically due to this issue, make sure the battery is charged fully, in good condition, and installed precisely. Also, you can replace the battery if needed.
Traction Control Or ESC Repair
The issue can be more complex if the error is coming due to Traction Control or ESC failure. However, if the problem is unluckily related to these systems, then these electronic systems may need to be recalibrated, repaired, or even replaced.
ABS Control Unit Maintenance
In case the problem lies within the ABS module, a technician can run a diagnostic test to identify whether the ABS module needs to be repaired or replaced.
Brake System Upkeep
Check the braking system and ensure that the pads and rotors are in good condition and working properly. Also, check the brake fluid levels and fill them if needed. Worn brakes and low fluid levels can cause trouble for the HSA system and prevent its working.
Software Update
As we discussed, sometimes a software glitch can also cause the system to be unavailable. However, always keep the software up to date to avoid that issue.
Restarting The Car
In some cases, the issue revolves around just restarting the car. So simply turn off the vehicle and reset it; the error message may disappear if it’s a temporary system glitch.
Which Car Brands Face The Most Hill Start Assist Issues?
While HSA issues can come in any vehicle equipped with the feature, some of the car brands experience it more commonly. According to customer feedback and repair records, here are these car brands that face the most Hill Start Assist issues:
| Car Brand | Specific Models |
|---|---|
| Ford | Ford Focus, Ford Edge, and Ford Escape |
| BMW | BMW 3 Series (F30, F31), BMW X5 (F15), BMW X3 (F25) |
| Jeep | Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Compass |
| Land Rover | Land Rover Discovery 5 (L550), Land Rover Range Rover Evoque (L538), Land Rover Defender (L663) |
Conclusion
Based on our whole discussion and common understanding of thinking, the Hill Start Assist is a very helpful and valuable feature, the same as other electronic features if it can be more useful for drivers, especially when they are in hilly and mountain areas.
However, by understanding its meaning, reasons for displaying, and symptoms, you can take some essential steps to get the HSA system working back when it illuminates the error. Moreover, regular maintenance and diagnosis tests of your vehicle are crucial for the early detection of these types of problems.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Is hill start assist necessary?
Based on its excellent features availability, Hill Start Assist is necessary in modern vehicles. It prevents a car from rolling backward on inclines. This quality of HSA makes it very useful, especially in hilly areas.
What is The Repair Cost For Hill Start Not Available?
The total repair cost for Hill Start Assist Unavailable error can vary based on the required maintenance, parts replacements, and so on. However, you can expect to pay around $850 to $2,550 for that issue, including all the sub-services. Please note that this is just a rough estimate based on my years of experience in Auto; you can visit a local shop or consult a mechanic for exact quotes.
Can I drive with the Hill Start Assist Not Available warning?
Yes, you can drive along with this error, but It’s also advisable to seek professional repair to ensure optimal performance.
Martin Lee is an ASE-certified mechanic and contributing author at SincereMechanic. He uses his expertise to create captivating articles that align with our content strategy. Using his deep automobile knowledge, he does in-depth research, puts expertise into articles, and makes them very informative. That information ensures our readers receive many valuable insights about the Vehicles.