Hill Descent Control (HDC) System
HDC System Controls
The Hill Descent Control (HDC) system allows the vehicle speed to be limited to a preset value when driving downhill.
Warning: Do not attempt to descend steep slopes if the HDC system is not functioning or if warning messages are displayed.
1. Activating/Deactivating HDC
HDC can be activated at speeds below 80 km/h (50 mph). The system operates only at speeds below 50 km/h (31 mph). HDC can be used in forward gear (D), reverse gear (R), and all CommandShift gears. When the gearbox is in forward gear (D), the most suitable gear is automatically selected.
Note: The HDC system automatically activates with certain Terrain Response programs.
If the system's activation criteria are not met, the HDC warning lamp will flash, indicating that the system is active but not engaged. Refer to page 73 for details on the GREEN HDC system indicator.
Once set, the HDC speed will be displayed as a green marker on the speedometer.
If the HDC system is switched off while operating, the indicator will flash, and a gradual disengagement will occur, allowing the vehicle to gradually increase speed.
If HDC is already active and the vehicle speed exceeds 50 km/h (31 mph), HDC operation will be suspended. The HDC indicator will flash, and a message will appear on the information display.
If the vehicle speed exceeds 80 km/h (50 mph), the HDC system will deactivate, and the HDC indicator will go out.
Applying the brake pedal during HDC operation may cause a pulsation sensation. HDC operation will resume when the brake pedal is released.
Note: The HDC system automatically deactivates if the ignition is switched off for more than 6 hours.
2. Increasing Descent Speed
Each gear has a preset maximum speed. The vehicle speed will only increase on slopes steep enough to increase the vehicle's momentum. Therefore, pressing the "+" button on a gentle slope may not necessarily increase the vehicle's speed.
3. Decreasing Descent Speed
Each gear has a preset minimum speed.
If a malfunction is detected in the HDC system, the message "HDC FAULT SYSTEM NOT AVAILABLE" will be displayed on the information panel, and the HDC system will gradually cease to function.
If a malfunction is detected while the HDC system is operating, its operation will gradually cease. Contact a dealer/authorized workshop at your earliest convenience.
Gradient Release Control (GRC) Function
If the vehicle is stopped on a slope using the brake pedal while HDC is active, the Gradient Release Control (GRC) function engages (except when using the Sand Terrain Response program). If the driver releases the brake pedal when going uphill, the GRC function automatically provides a delay and a smooth release of the brakes, allowing the vehicle to move off smoothly. When driving downhill, a similar lock and gradual release of the brakes is used for the smooth engagement of the HDC system.
The GRC system operates when driving forwards and in reverse, and does not require driver intervention.
Warning Messages
Do not attempt to descend steep slopes if the HDC system is not functioning or if warning messages are displayed.
Brake Temperature
In demanding conditions, the HDC system may cause brake temperatures to rise above the set limits. In such cases, the message "HDC TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE" will appear on the information panel. Following this, the HDC system's operation will gradually reduce, and it will become temporarily inactive.
Once the brakes have cooled down, the message will disappear (or the indicator light will go out), and the HDC system will resume operation if required.