How to Fix Hill Start Assist Not Available Ford f150?

Hill start assist is an excellent feature in the Ford f150 to ensure added safety and convenience while starting the vehicle on steep inclines. However, you may experience a hill start when assistance is available. It can be dangerous, so you should immediately attend to the issue to maintain safety. But how to fix hill start assist not available Ford f150?

• Check the hill start assist module, then check the brake fluid level. 
• Next, check for wires to ensure they are correctly connected. 
• If the issue persists, check for the wheel speed sensor and ABS and replace them if they are faulty.

However, you need a detailed guide for proper identification and fixation of the problem. Stay here. I will assist you in fixing that issue. 

What Does Hill Start Assist Not Available Mean?

Hill start assists not available means that the feature has some problem or is inactive. In such situations, the driver must start the vehicle carefully and manually control the vehicle by applying brakes and accelerator. 

However, you will always be at risk of accidents regardless of your driving expertise. So, it is good to identify and fix the problem quickly for better safety.

If you’re facing issues with your Ford Pass remote not working, I recommend visiting the provided link for troubleshooting tips to help resolve the problem effectively and efficiently.

Reasons For Hill Start Assist Not Available Issue in Ford F150

The hill start assist function may not be available in your Ford f150 for many reasons. But here I have listed the 5 most reported reasons by the Ford owners. Whenever you experience that issue, you must check for these problems to fix the issue quickly.

• Faulty Hill Start Assist module
• Low brake fluid level
• Electrical wiring issues affecting the Hill Start Assist function
• Malfunctioning wheel speed sensors
• Issues with the vehicle’s ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Do you need help starting your Ford f150? Visit these links to solve the issue: Ford f150 won’t start no clicking noise and Ford remote start not working 1 beep.

Hill Start Assist Not Available Ford f150 [Reasons and Solution]

Problem 1: Faulty Hill Start Assist Module

The faulty Hill Start Assist module in the Ford F150 prevents the Hill Start Assist function from working correctly. So you may see a message “Hill start assist not available.” The module regulates the operation of the system and requires repair or replacement.

Solution:

• First, notice the error message “Hill start assist not available” on the dashboard.
• Consult the vehicle’s manual to confirm the meaning of the message.
• Then locate the Hill Start Assist module; usually, it is mounted near the brake system.
• Check the module for damage, loose connections, corrosion, etc.
• If there are issues, consider repairing or replacing the module. I recommend the GM Genuine Parts Hill start assist Control Module for the Ford f150.
• Test the Hill Start Assist function after the module is fixed to ensure it works correctly.

Problem 2: Low Brake Fluid Level

When the brake fluid level in the Ford F150 is low, it can trigger the message “Hill start assist not available.” It happens because the Hill Start Assist system relies on the brake system to function correctly. So if the fluid level is low, it can affect its operations.

Solution:

• Start with checking the brake fluid reservoir located in the engine bay.
• It is low if you notice the fluid level is below the “MIN” mark.
• Then you will need to add the recommended brake fluid up to recommended level between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks. You can follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but I recommend Quicksilver DOT Brake Fluid for brake fluid replacement or refill.
• Remember to ensure there are no leaks in the brake system.
• When refilling the fluid, test and ensure the hill start assist works.

Problem 3: Electrical Wiring Issues Affecting The Hill Start Assist Function

Electrical wiring issues can impact the Hill Start Assist function in the Ford F150. Wiring issues can disrupt the communication between the various components of the system. So you may see features not available on the screen. It requires quick troubleshooting and repairs.

Solution:

• First, check the electrical connections and wiring harness. Carefully check for damaged or loose connections. Repair or replace the wires if damaged.
• Next, check for fuse-related issues for the Hill Start Assist system. If the fuse is blown, replace it.
• Then take a multimeter and test the continuity of the wiring and ensure the proper voltage is running.
• Clear any error codes using a diagnostic tool and reset the system.
• Test the Hill Start Assist function to ensure it is functioning correctly.

Note: If you are experiencing transmission solenoid problems with your Ford F150, visit the provided resource for information and solutions to diagnose and address the issue effectively.

Problem 4: Malfunctioning Wheel Speed Sensors

If the wheel speed sensors in the Ford F150 malfunction, it can cause Hill Start Assist to function and not be available. The sensors are responsible for communicating essential information to the system. If sensors fail, they will be unable to perform their functions.

Solution:

• First, check for the error message indicating the issue.
• Then check the wheel speed sensors for damage or lost connections.
• Use a diagnostic tool and scan for error codes related to the sensors.
• If an error code is detected, you have faulty sensors. Replace the malfunctioning wheel speed sensor.

Problem 5: Issues With The Vehicle’s ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System)

Problems with the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) in the Ford F150 can be the culprit for hill start assist not being available. Hill start assist system relies on the ABS for accurate speed detection. 

If there are any issues with the ABS, it can impact its functionality. It requires immediate attention to fix the problem.

Solution:

• First, check for ABS warning lights on your vehicle’s dashboard.
• Then check the ABS sensors for damage or dirt accumulation.
• Ensure wheel speed sensor alignment is okay and connections are secure.
• Test the ABS module and hydraulic unit for faults. If need replacement, do replacement of essential parts. I recommend Cardone 12-17245 Remanufactured ABS Control Module for the Ford f150.
• Finally, take a test drive to ensure the hill start assist working finely.

How Do I Activate Hill Start Assist?

Activating hill start assist will not take more than 2 minutes to finish if you follow the steps below.

• First, ensure your vehicle is equipped with a hill start assist.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Start your engine and release the brake pedal.
• Press the brake pedal firmly when you are on an incline, so do not leave it loose.
• Hill start assist will automatically engage. But keep holding the brakes for a couple of moments.
• Then release the brake pedal and accelerate gently to smoothly start moving uphill without rolling back.

Note: If your Ford F150 heater is not working, don’t worry; there are various troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and resolve the issue.

How to Turn Off Hill Start Assist Ford f150?

To turn off the Hill Start Assist feature in a Ford F-150, follow the steps below:

• Start with locating the “Settings” option on your vehicle’s infotainment screen.
• Next, navigate to the “Driver Assist” or “Vehicle Settings” menu.
• You must look for the “Hill Start Assist” or “HSA” option within this menu.
• Choose the “Hill Start Assist” option and toggle it to the “Off” position.
• Confirm the selection if prompted.
• Test the Hill Start Assist feature by stopping on an incline and releasing the brake pedal. Ensure the vehicle should not automatically hold the brakes.

If you are facing problems with the f150 backup camera, it may help you: F150 backup camera not working.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Conclusion

The hill start assist feature ensures a safe start and overall driving experience on hilly and rough roads. It is an added security feature that improves your control. Sometimes you may experience it needing to be added. 

No worries; you can try different ways to fix that issue. However, if you tried all the above techniques but could not fix the problem, use your driving expertise and safely bring the vehicle to a professional mechanic’s workshop to fix the issue.