Ford Escape hill start assist not available issue on Ford Escape

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Ford Escape owners report experiencing the "Hill Start Assist Not Available" warning, which can be frustrating, especially when starting on inclines. Common causes of this issue include sensor malfunctions, software glitches, electrical problems, and mechanical failures within the brake system. Additionally, some owners have noted that this problem tends to occur more frequently in colder weather conditions. Users have raised concerns in forums about similar messages appearing in various Ford models, indicating a broader issue. To troubleshoot, it is recommended to check the battery voltage, as the hill start assist system relies on it, and to perform diagnostic checks for faulty ABS sensors, traction control problems, or a malfunctioning brake light fuse. If the vehicle's computing system detects a malfunction, it will disable the Hill Start Assist and display the warning message, signaling the need for prompt attention.

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