ESC System Operation

ESC ON Status

When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the ESC and ESC OFF indicators illuminate for approximately 3 seconds and then go off, indicating that the ESC system is operational.

Operation

When the ESC system is operating, the ESC indicator light flashes.

• When braking under conditions that may lock the wheels, you may hear a clicking noise from the brakes or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and means that your ESC system is active.
• When ESC is operating, the engine may not respond to the accelerator pedal as it does under normal conditions.
• If cruise control is used while the ESC system is activated, it will automatically deactivate. Cruise control can be reactivated when road conditions allow. Refer to "Speed Control System" later in this chapter (if equipped).
• When exiting a snow-covered or slippery road, pressing the accelerator pedal may not increase engine speed. This is intended to maintain vehicle stability and traction and does not indicate a problem.

ESC ON Status

To cancel ESC operation:

• Step 1

Briefly press the ESC OFF button (the ESC OFF indicator will illuminate and a message may appear). In this case, engine torque control is disabled. In other words, traction control does not operate; only brake control operates.

Traction and stability control are disabled.

• Step 2

Press and hold the ESC OFF button for at least 3 seconds. The ESC OFF indicator will illuminate and an ESC OFF warning sound will be heard. In this case, engine control and brake control are disabled. This means the vehicle stability control system is no longer operating.

If the ignition switch is in the LOCK/OFF position when the ESC system is turned off, ESC remains off. When the engine is restarted, ESC is automatically activated again.