Is the only way to get Hill Decent Control is to get the FX4 package?

 

From what I can tell yes, the only way from the factory to get hill descent control is by ordering the FX4 package. That being said, it looks like the F150 guys have figured out how to add hill descent control through Forescan and the addition of the factory switch.

 

Yes, that is the only way to get it factory.

Not sure why anyone would want it. For maximum control on steep downhill off-road descents, just use 4x4 Low and use the manual shift mode or simply engage 1st gear. The truck will crawl down the hill with no need to apply the brakes.

 

Completely OCD. I am afraid somewhere on my dash there will be a blank button that I will always want to press but can't.

 

Such a cheap option, go for it... and yes there will be a blank spot where the button would have been above your screen.

 

I use hill descent control every time I drive out of the mountains. The roads are packed gravel and not steep enough to use four-low by any means. The road descends nearly ten miles of constant downhill and it is so much easier to use the hill descent control and let the truck manage the speed for that length of time. I ordered the FX4 on my next truck as I frequently use that feature.

 

What is the top speed limit of the Hill Descent? Does it only work at low speeds or could you use it at 25, 30 or even 50? I thought cruise control was for that.

 

Hill Decent will apply the brakes as needed to keep the vehicle at your set speed when it's coasting and goes above the set speed. Cruise control maintains a set speed and if your coasting above your set speed the engine is just at idle as vehicle speeds up. They both maintain a speed but for different applications.

 

Hill descent control only works at 20mph or lower.

 

I have used this feature many times while hunting. Going down a steep greasy hill is no longer a white knuckle affair.
Highly recommended!

 

Very low speeds.
Why would anyone want to go down a muddy/rocky hill at speed?
Think off road.

 

I am with Troverman, engage 4x4 H/L and go manual on the trans drive it down. I would be far more comfortable in that mode than depending upon some programmer writing code for the ECM...he ha NEVER owned a SD and NEVER driver past the curb in his Prius...