Exploring new places with your vehicle is always an adventure. Just make sure your ride is ready to take on the unexpected, like steep inclines and slippery slopes. If you drive a newer model, it might have the hill descent control feature, which makes it easier to traverse elevating terrain.
What Is Hill Descent Control?
Hill descent control helps you maintain a safe and comfortable speed when driving downhill slopes or uneven terrains, so you can focus more on navigating the path.
Different manufacturers will have different names for this safety feature. For example, Toyota calls it Downhill Assist Control, while Jaguar refers to it as All Surface Progress Control. Their exact names might differ, but their primary function remains the same.
What’s the Difference Between Hill Assist and Hill Descent Control?
Hill descent control helps you navigate steep inclines and rough terrains, while hill assist automatically stops your car from rolling back when you press and release the brakes on a hill.
How Does Hill Descent Control Work?
Once you activate hill descent control, your vehicle will apply the brakes so you won’t exceed the speed threshold. The traction-control and anti-lock braking systems work together to minimize tire slips and ease you down the slope.
You don’t have to step on the gas or brake pedals when hill descent control is on, so you can focus on steering.
How to Use Hill Descent Control
Press a button on the dashboard or near the traction control button to activate the hill descent control. Once activated, it will ensure your vehicle doesn’t exceed the speed limit.
Drive cautiously even when the feature is on. Avoid driving down hills or declines that are extremely steep.
Some cars automatically activate the brake lights when the hill descent control is on. If your brake lights don’t illuminate, you can activate them to signal drivers behind you.
Benefits of Hill Descent Control
Using hill descent control when navigating slopes improves safety and comfort, reduces brake wear, and enhances off-road performance.
Increases Safety
Hill descent control makes it easier to navigate slippery downhill slopes, as it automatically applies the brakes. It also enhances traction control to prevent tire slips.
Improves Comfort
When the feature is on, you can focus on steering. Removing the gas and brakes from the factors you need to consider makes for a less stressful driving experience.
Reduces Brake Wear
Driving down hills manually often involves frequent braking, which can cause brake wear. Hill descent control prevents that by optimizing brake use.
Enhances Off-Road Performance
The hill descent control function also works on uneven terrains. It increases the vehicle’s performance off the road and helps maintain its overall health.
When to Use Hill Descent Control
Use hill descent control when driving downhill or traversing uneven roads like off-road terrain.
Can You Use Hill Descent Control Uphill?
Hill descent control doesn’t work when driving uphill. Similarly, hill start assist also won’t help you navigate inclines.
The best way to navigate uphill drives is by shifting to a lower gear for manual transmission cars.
How Fast Can I Go With Hill Descent Control On?
The hill descent control feature allows for speeds as slow as 5 mph and as fast as 40 mph. Anything over 40 mph usually triggers the brakes, but it can vary depending on the vehicle.
The exact speed will vary depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model. Some vehicles will also let you set the desired speed beforehand. For example, Toyota’s downhill assist control system allows you to set the speed anywhere from 3 mph to 18 mph by turning the mode select switch.
Does Hill Descent Control Wear Out Brakes?
Using hill descent control won’t wear your brakes out unless you’re descending in too high of a gear. This feature won’t damage your brakes any more than normal driving would.
Does Hill Descent Control Work If I’m Reversing?
Some versions of the hill descent control work when traveling downhill in reverse. Check your owner’s manual to determine if your vehicle can do this.
Does Hill Descent Control Work in the Snow?
Hill descent control should work in the snow, similar to how it works on slippery declines.
However, these systems aren’t 100% foolproof, so it’s best to take extra caution when driving down icy and slippery surfaces.
Can I Use Downhill Assist Control Continuously?
In some cases, the brake system can overheat if the hill descent control system is used for too long. To prevent that, the system will temporarily shut off. Manufacturers will typically install an alarm that sounds before it turns off to warn the driver. The system indicator will then blink before the system temporarily shuts down.
The hill descent control feature should turn back on after a while, but until then, you’ll have to drive your vehicle as normal.
How to Turn Hill Descent Control Off
Press the hill descent control button (the same one you press to turn it on) to deactivate it.
What Vehicles Have a Hill Descent Control System?
While the Land Rover Freelander was the first vehicle to debut a hill descent control system, you’ll find several vehicles with similar features nowadays. Ford SUVs and crossovers such as the 2020 Explorer and the 2020 Expedition come with hill descent control. The 2020 Ford F-150 and 2020 Ford Super Duty are also equipped with this safety feature.
Other popular vehicles with a hill descent control system include the Jeep Wrangler, Honda Passport, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Frontier.
The Bottom Line
Driving downhill can be unsafe, as even expert drivers have a hard time navigating certain slopes. The hill descent control feature helps you safely traverse sloped areas and uneven terrain. Don’t forget to activate it before driving downhill.
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