FORD 2012 Focus v.4 - Manual (Page 277)

The SST will automatically upshift if the engine reaches maximum RPM
and the driver has not selected the proper gear for vehicle speed to help
prevent engine damage caused by excessive over-revving.
Engine damage may occur if excessive engine revving is held
without shifting.
Hill start assist system (if equipped)
WARNING: HSA does not replace the parking brake. When you
leave the vehicle, always apply the parking brake and select P
(Park) (automatic transmission) or neutral (manual transmission).
WARNING: You must remain in the vehicle once you have
activated HSA.
WARNING: During all times you are responsible for controlling
the vehicle, supervising the HSA system and intervening, if
required.
The hill start assist system makes it easier to pull away when the vehicle
is on a slope without the need to use the parking brake. When Hill start
assist is active, the vehicle will remain stationary on the slope for two to
three seconds after you release the brake pedal. During this time, you
have time to move your foot from the brake to the accelerator pedal and
pull away. The brakes are released automatically once the engine has
developed sufficient drive to prevent the vehicle from rolling down the
slope. This is an advantage when pulling away on a slope, (for example,
from a car park ramp, traffic lights or while in reverse traveling uphill
into a parking space).
Using hill start assist
The system is activated automatically when the vehicle is stopped on a
slope greater than four degrees. Hill start assist operates with the vehicle
facing downhill if reverse gear is selected.
Activating hill start assist
1. Press the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a complete standstill.
Keep the brake pedal pressed.
2. If the sensors detect that the vehicle is on a slope, the system will be
activated automatically.
Driving
277
2012 Focus (foc)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA (fus)