Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
This system further improves vehicle stability and steering response when driving on slippery roads or when detecting a difference in friction coefficient between the right and left wheels during braking.
VSM Operation
When VSM is operating:
- ESC (Electronic Stability Control) (
) light will flash. - The steering wheel can be controlled.
When the Vehicle Stability Management system operates properly, you may feel a slight pulsation in the vehicle. This is only the effect of brake control and does not indicate anything abnormal.
VSM does not operate when:
- Driving on a road shoulder, such as a slope or incline
- Driving in reverse
- The ESC OFF indicator light (
) - remains on the instrument cluster • The EPS (Electronic Power Steering) warning light remains on the instrument cluster
VSM operation is turned off
If you press the ESC OFF button to turn off ESC, VSM will also be cancelled and the ESC OFF indicator (
) will illuminate.
To turn VSM on, press the button again. The ESC OFF indicator will turn off.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
VSM may be deactivated even if you have not cancelled VSM operation by pressing the ESC OFF button. This indicates that a malfunction has been detected in the EPS (Electronic Power Steering) system or the VSM system. If the ESC warning light (
) or the EPS warning light remains on, it is recommended that you have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
✽ NOTICE
- VSM is designed to operate at speeds above approximately 15 km/h in curves.
- VSM is designed to operate at speeds above approximately 30 km/h when braking the vehicle on a split-mu road. A split-mu road consists of surfaces that have different friction coefficients.
WARNING
- The Vehicle Stability Management system does not replace safe driving practices; it is only an supplementary function. It is the driver's responsibility to always check the speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. Always hold the steering wheel firmly while driving.
- Your vehicle is designed to respond to the driver's intention, even with VSM installed. Always observe all normal driving precautions and drive at speeds that are safe for the conditions, including when driving in bad weather and on slippery roads.
- Driving with tires or wheels of a different size may cause the VSM system to malfunction. When replacing tires, make sure they are the same size as your original tires.
Test yourself
A quick Kia Carens RP quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.