ESC helps drivers stay in control
- Published June 3, 2009
Electronic Stability Control (or ESC) is a crash avoidance system found on many vehicles. The ESC safety feature is designed to help you stay in control of your vehicle during an emergency manoeuvre, such as when you need to brake suddenly or swerve to avoid a potential road hazard.
Reduce wheel spin and possible skids
ESC monitors the direction of the steering wheel versus the direction of the vehicle upwards of 20 times per second. When they do not match and the system detects a skid or if the tires spin, the ESC will automatically apply braking to certain wheels; reduce engine power, or both. By having an ESC system on the vehicle, it can actively prevent and reduce wheel spin and possible skids, before the driver becomes aware of the problem.
Did you know?Automakers may use different names for their ESC systems. Trade names include:
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ESC is automatically "ON" whenever you start your vehicle. Some vehicles have an ESC Off switch; this switch is needed to disable ESC during certain situations such as when you are stuck in snow. If your vehicle has an ESC Off switch, refer to the vehicle owner's manual for more information. Unless you manually shut ESC Off, it will remain active until you turn the engine off.
Significant advancement
Electronic Stability Control technology is one of the most significant advancements in automobile safety technology since the introduction of the seatbelt. Transport Canada estimates that the safety feature may reduce certain types of motor vehicle crashes in Canada by 30 per cent, resulting in approximately 225 fewer deaths and 755 fewer serious injuries.
Vehicle safety features can lead to a false sense of safety among some drivers. Remember ESC technology does not and cannot change the laws of physics. Be Proactive, even if your vehicle is equipped with this safety feature. You must continue to keep a safe following distance and drive to road conditions. If you drive too fast for the road conditions, ESC cannot prevent a crash. Like other vehicle safety features, ESC is a tool to help you maintain control.
