What’s the Point of Electronic Stability Control?

ESC is supposed to keep a vehicle moving in the direction that the driver wants to go.

Like anti-lock brakes and traction control, electronic stability control is an added safety measure.

Two-car accident showing damage

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How Does Electronic Stability Control Work?

What Happens When Electronic Stability Control Fails?

However, you should be able to continue driving the vehicle as if it didn’t have stability control.

If you continue to drive the vehicle, be especially careful on wet pavement and sharp corners.

What Vehicles Are Equipped With ESC?

For a vehicle to have ESC, it must also have ABS and TCS.

All the major automakers offer some throw in of ESC.

These systems can be found in cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorhomes.

However, some manufacturers offer the option only on specific models.

There might also be a switch for temporarily disabling the feature.

Also, consult your owner’s manual to see if ESC is included with your vehicle.

Some people believe turning ESC off gives them more control of the vehicle and greater speed.

Turning off ESC can be handy if you have a high-performance car and you race on a track.

For the vast majority of people, however, there’s no reason to disable electronic stability control.

Doing so could increase your chances of an accident.

The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Coupe was the first to come with electronic stability control in 1995.

Toyota released its vehicle stability control (VSC) system the same year in its Crown Majesta model.