There’s nothing more frustrating than a car that won’t start. If you’re encountering a “Full Accessory Power Active” message on your Ford vehicle’s dashboard, don’t panic! This doesn’t necessarily signal a major problem. It can often be a quirk in the system or a simple user error.
Here’s what you can try to get your car back on the road:
Understanding the Issue:
- In normal operation, pressing the start button with your foot on the brake should crank the engine.
- “Full Accessory Power Active” appears when the car goes into accessory mode instead of starting, even with the brake pressed.
Potential Solutions:
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Restart Attempt: It might be a temporary glitch. Turn the car off completely (one press of the start button without the brake). Then, press the brake and start the car normally.
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Sequence Shuffle: This seems to work for some Ford owners. Try this:
- Press the start button once (without the brake) to enter accessory mode.
- Wait a moment for the system to settle.
- Press the brake and then press the start button again.
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Remote Start (if available): If your Ford has remote start, use the key fob or app to start the car remotely. This can sometimes bypass the “Full Accessory Power Active” issue.
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Owner’s Manual: Consult your car’s manual. It might have specific troubleshooting steps for this situation.
Important Note:
If none of these solutions work, it’s best to consult a certified mechanic. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the proper fix.
Additional Tips:
- Some users report success after letting the car sit for a while (around an hour) before trying again.
- This issue seems more prevalent in certain Ford models. A quick web search for “Full Accessory Power Active + [Your Car Model]” might reveal model-specific solutions from other owners.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “Full Accessory Power Active” message and get your Ford back to starting smoothly. If the problem persists, a certified mechanic can provide a proper diagnosis and repair.
