How to Use the ESP System?
3 Answers
Usage of the ESP system: The ESP system is enabled by default in vehicles. There is a physical button in the car to turn off the ESP system. It is necessary to disable the ESP system when the vehicle is stuck in mud or off-road, during aggressive driving or drift maneuvers, or when snow chains are installed on the tires. In most cases, keeping the ESP system on is advisable, but drivers should choose based on actual driving conditions. ESP stands for Electronic Stability Program, a system or program designed to enhance vehicle handling performance while effectively preventing loss of control when the vehicle reaches its dynamic limits. The ESP system analyzes vehicle driving state information from various sensors and then sends correction commands to systems like ABS and EBD to help maintain the vehicle's dynamic balance.
Last time when driving on a mountain road, it suddenly rained and the slippery surface almost caused a loss of control. Fortunately, the ESP automatically intervened. This system actually doesn't require special operation; it's enabled by default after ignition. The skidding car icon on the dashboard disappearing indicates it's working. During emergency lane changes or sharp turns, you can feel the steering wheel slightly resisting, and the brakes will automatically tap certain wheels with a clicking sound. However, when stuck in snow and trying to get out, remember to press the button with skid marks on the center console to temporarily turn it off, otherwise the wheels won't spin at all. When washing the car normally, don't spray water directly at the sensors, as dirt can affect their judgment.
I've been driving a taxi for ten years, and ESP can really save lives in critical moments. You don't need to worry about it once you're in the car—it's always monitoring in the background as long as you haven't pressed the off button. When encountering crosswinds on the highway or making emergency evasive maneuvers, the system reacts much faster than a human, braking individual wheels in just 0.2 seconds. I deliberately tried turning off ESP during rainy cornering, and the rear wheels immediately lost traction. Remember three things: the yellow dashboard light indicates it's off, you should turn it off when stuck in sand, and remember to calibrate the sensors at the dealership after changing tire sizes.
