Can we all admit now that we hate parallel parking? Right. We all learned back in driver training about pulling up next to the vehicle in front, backing into the space behind it by turning the wheel hard without hitting the car in front, and then straightening it out before your back wheel hits the curb.
But how many of us are really good at it? First, did you pull up far enough? When do you start straightening out so you don't hit that car with your front end? Let's face it: you probably celebrate and consider it a small victory (if not a minor miracle) when you don't have to make a few drive-and-reverse adjustments to get it right.
Now add in situations like having to parallel park on a busy street in downtown Coeur d'Alene with cars trying to pass or waiting for you, and you can be forgiven for thinking that parallel parking is nerve-wracking, even for experienced drivers. Obviously, the engineers at Ford feel the same way about parallel parking, which is why they developed Ford's Active Park Assist, an innovative feature designed to take the stress out of parking, give drivers more confidence behind the wheel, and prevent unpleasant accidents.
Available on a range of Ford models at Mike White Ford in North Idaho, this innovative technology helps make parking smoother, safer, and, yes, almost effortless.
What Is Active Park Assist?
Ford's Active Park Assist is a driver-assist technology that helps you park in both parallel and perpendicular spots. Using ultrasonic sensors and advanced steering controls, it detects suitable parking spaces and guides your vehicle into them hands-free.
Depending on your Ford model, you may have Active Park Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, or Enhanced Active Park Assist, each with increasingly advanced capabilities. However, the goal remains the same: to simplify the parking process and reduce driver anxiety in tight situations.
How It Works
Here's how Ford's Active Park Assist takes over when it's time to park:
- Search for a Space: As you drive slowly past parked cars, the system scans for available spaces using side-mounted sensors. You'll see an alert on your screen when a spot is identified.
- Follow the Prompts: The system will instruct you to stop, shift into reverse, and remove your hands from the wheel. You control the gear shift, brake, and accelerator—while the system steers you precisely into the space.
- Let the System Work: The vehicle automatically steers itself into the spot with minimal input from you. The process is fully automated in models equipped with Active Park Assist 2.0, including shifting, braking, and acceleration.
- Exit Assistance: Need help getting out of a tight parallel spot? Some Ford models also include Park Out Assist, which helps guide you safely out with the same automated control.
Which Ford Models Offer Active Park Assist?
Many Ford vehicles across the lineup include this helpful feature, especially on higher trims or as part of advanced technology packages. Some of the most popular models that offer Active Park Assist or Active Park Assist 2.0 include:
- Ford Escape
- Ford Edge
- Ford Explorer
- Ford Expedition
- Ford F-150
- Ford Mustang Mach-E
If parking stress is a concern or you love smart features that make life easier, our team at Mike White Ford can help you find the right trim or package to fit your needs. For older drivers, new drivers, dads and moms dealing with distractions, or anyone else who simply wants a little extra help, this technology adds confidence and convenience to every drive.
Other Parking Features to Know About
Ford's parking tech doesn't stop with Active Park Assist. Many models–even those without Park Assist—also offer:
- Rear View Cameras
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- 360-Degree Camera Systems
- Cross-Traffic Alert
If you enjoy testing your parallel parking skills, these features add an extra level of safety for both you and others. They ensure you are aware of what is around you in busy parking lots or areas with pedestrians, children, or pets. These features help reduce blind spots, minimize curb scrapes, and protect you and your passengers while navigating tricky parking situations.
Let Tech Work for You
At Mike White Ford, we believe a better driving experience comes from features that make everyday tasks easier. Active Park Assist is one such feature: it saves time, reduces stress, and makes your daily drive just a little bit smoother.
If you're ready to experience hands-free parking for yourself, stop by our Coeur d'Alene or Sandpoint showrooms or contact us to set up a test drive. Our team will walk you through how the latest Ford technology features work and help you find the Ford model that fits your lifestyle and driveway. Visit Mike White Ford today and discover how effortless and stress-free parking can be!