Can ESP Be Turned Off?
4 Answers
ESP can be turned off by locating the ESP OFF button in the car and pressing it for a few seconds. The working principle of ESP is: based on sensor signals to determine the driving state, the control unit performs precise calculations to ensure optimal control. When situations like spinning, understeering, or oversteering occur, it individually controls each wheel to enhance vehicle stability. The functions of ESP include: 1. Precisely controlling the braking process of one or more wheels, distributing the braking force applied to each wheel; 2. Automatically adjusting the engine's output torque to control the vehicle's speed; 3. Forcing the car to generate a rotational moment around its center of mass, assisting the driver in adjusting the vehicle's direction.
As an average car owner, I usually keep the ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on while driving, as it can automatically correct skidding and can be a lifesaver in critical moments. However, there are certain special situations where it’s necessary to turn it off. For example, when stuck in mud, the ESP may limit power output to prevent slipping, making it necessary to press the button with the skidding car icon. Similarly, when slowly climbing icy or snowy slopes, keeping ESP on might cause continuous alarms and power cuts, whereas turning it off can be more effective. Note that after disabling this function, a warning light will appear on the dashboard. Once back on normal roads, it’s best to reactivate it immediately, as driving at high speeds without ESP is like driving without a seatbelt. Drifting enthusiasts also manually turn off ESP before performing drifts, otherwise, the system’s automatic braking will interrupt the tail slide.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered several situations where I needed to turn off the ESP. I remember last winter during heavy snowfall, my wheels were spinning but couldn't climb a slope, and the ESP system directly cut off the engine power, leaving the car stuck. Later, I pressed the switch and gently pressed the accelerator again, successfully getting out of trouble. However, this function shouldn't be turned off recklessly. During daily driving, especially in rainy conditions or on curves, ESP can prevent the car from losing control and skidding. To turn it off, you can usually find a button with a skidding car icon on the left side of the steering wheel or on the center console, and holding it down for about three seconds will deactivate it. Restoring it is even simpler—just turn off the engine and restart, or press the button to turn it back on.
Having worked in an auto repair shop for many years, I often encounter car owners asking about ESP. First, let me clarify that it can be turned off—many cars have a physical button with a car icon near the steering wheel. The key is timing: when climbing a snowy slope, keeping it on can make starting difficult, and when stuck in sand, the system's automatic braking can worsen wheel spin. However, never turn it off on highways or slippery roads. Last year, a client turned off ESP to overtake on the highway, hit a puddle, spun out, and crashed into the guardrail. It's advisable not to keep it off for too long, especially after lowering the suspension. For special needs like drift practice, find a closed area before turning it off for safety.
