Sounds like your programing procedure is consistent with Homelink's steps. I have min programed to two different garage door openers, a genie and a chamberlin. The genie did not require the learning step and opens as soon as I press the homelink button. The chamberlin required the learning...
I have also noticed a slightly higher brake force required compared with my other two cars. I have attributed this to break-in (only 500 miles) or just a difference between cars. In either case, I figure I will get used to it. The hill assist only operates for 2 seconds from the time you...
The upper hook, as you call it, is the correct position. See picture 3 and 4 on the amazon page for verification of the correct position. This is the same way the OEM cover attaches.