Master Your Maneuvers: The Ultimate Guide to Using Park Assist on the Ford Explorer
What To Know
- This mode assists you in parking perpendicular to the curb, such as in a parking lot.
- Once the vehicle is safely positioned within the parking space, the system will notify you with a message on the display and an audible chime.
- While Park Assist is a game-changer for parking, the Ford Explorer is equipped with a suite of other driver-assistance features designed to enhance your driving experience and improve safety.
The Ford Explorer is a powerful and versatile SUV, but even the most experienced drivers can find themselves struggling with tight parking spaces. Thankfully, the Explorer comes equipped with an advanced Park Assist feature that can take the stress out of parallel and perpendicular parking. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of using Park Assist in your Ford Explorer, ensuring you never have to worry about squeezing into that tiny spot again.
Understanding Park Assist Technology
Before diving into the steps, let’s understand what Park Assist does and how it works. Park Assist is a driver-assistance system that utilizes sensors and cameras to detect available parking spaces and guide the vehicle into them. It essentially takes over the steering while you control the accelerator and brake. This technology makes parking a breeze, especially in tight spaces where maneuvering can be tricky.
Enabling Park Assist
The first step is to ensure Park Assist is enabled in your Ford Explorer. Here’s how:
1. Press the “Settings” button on your touchscreen display.
2. Navigate to “Vehicle” and then “Driver Assist Features.”
3. Select “Park Assist” and make sure it’s toggled on.
Once enabled, the system will be ready to assist you with your next parking maneuver.
Choosing Your Parking Style
The Ford Explorer‘s Park Assist offers two parking modes:
1. Parallel Parking: This mode helps you park parallel to the curb.
2. Perpendicular Parking: This mode assists you in parking perpendicular to the curb, such as in a parking lot.
Activating Park Assist
With Park Assist enabled, you can activate it during your parking search:
1. Drive slowly past the desired parking spot.
2. Engage your turn signal to indicate the direction you want to park.
3. The system will detect available parking spaces and alert you with an audible chime and a message on the display.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and the audible prompts.
Following the System’s Guidance
Once Park Assist has detected a suitable space, it will guide you through the parking process:
1. The system will prompt you to shift into “Reverse” and engage the parking brake.
2. The system will then take over the steering, making small adjustments to guide the vehicle into the spot.
3. You will be responsible for controlling the accelerator and brake, ensuring you maintain a safe distance from the surrounding vehicles.
4. The system will provide visual cues on the touchscreen display, indicating the direction the steering wheel should be turned.
5. Follow the prompts carefully and adjust your speed as needed.
Completing the Parking Maneuver
Once the vehicle is safely positioned within the parking space, the system will notify you with a message on the display and an audible chime. At this point, you can take over the steering and complete the parking process by adjusting the vehicle’s position to your liking.
Tips for Using Park Assist Effectively
Here are some helpful tips to maximize your Park Assist experience:
- Ensure the parking space is wide enough for your vehicle. Park Assist may not work in extremely tight spaces.
- Keep an eye on your surroundings and be prepared to take over if needed.
- Don’t rely solely on the system; use your own judgment and common sense.
- Practice using Park Assist in different parking situations to gain confidence.
- If you encounter any issues, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealership for assistance.
Beyond Parking Assistance: Exploring Other Features
While Park Assist is a game-changer for parking, the Ford Explorer is equipped with a suite of other driver-assistance features designed to enhance your driving experience and improve safety. These features include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: This system automatically adjusts your vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Lane Keeping Assist: This feature helps you stay centered in your lane by gently steering the vehicle back if it starts to drift.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: This system alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, helping to prevent collisions.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This feature warns you of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.
The Future of Driver-Assistance Technology
The Ford Explorer’s advanced driver-assistance features are a testament to the rapid advancements in automotive technology. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more sophisticated and intuitive driver-assistance systems in the future. These systems will likely become even more proactive, anticipating potential hazards and taking action to prevent accidents.
The End of Parking Anxiety: A Farewell to Frustration
Mastering the use of Park Assist in your Ford Explorer is a simple yet rewarding process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can banish the stress of parking and enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience. Embrace the future of driver-assistance technology and let Park Assist take the wheel, leaving you free to focus on the road ahead.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: What if Park Assist doesn‘t detect a parking space?
A: If Park Assist doesn‘t detect a suitable space, it will not activate. This could be due to the space being too small, obstructed, or poorly lit.
Q: Can I use Park Assist on any surface?
A: Park Assist works best on paved surfaces like asphalt or concrete. It may not be as effective on uneven or loose surfaces.
Q: Is Park Assist available on all Ford Explorers?
A: Park Assist is typically available as an option on higher trim levels of the Ford Explorer. Check your vehicle’s specifications or contact a Ford dealership for confirmation.
Q: Can I disable Park Assist if I don’t want to use it?
A: Yes, you can disable Park Assist through the touchscreen display settings. However, it’s recommended to keep it enabled for added convenience and safety.
Q: What if I need to stop during the parking process?
A: If you need to stop during the parking process, simply release the accelerator and apply the brake. Park Assist will pause and wait for you to resume the maneuver.