Driving Your Vehicle

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

~1min read

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is designed to stabilize the vehicle during cornering maneuvers. ESC checks where you are steering and where the vehicle is actually going. ESC applies the brakes at individual wheels and intervenes in the engine control system to stabilize the vehicle.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot prevent accidents. Excessive speed in turns, sudden maneuvers, and hydroplaning on wet surfaces can still lead to serious accidents. Only a safe and attentive driver can prevent accidents by avoiding maneuvers that could cause the vehicle to lose traction with the road. Even if ESC is installed, always observe all normal driving precautions, including driving at speeds that are safe for the conditions.

WARNING

For maximum protection, always fasten your seat belts. No system, regardless of how advanced, can compensate for all driver errors and/or driving conditions. Always drive responsibly.

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is an electronic system designed to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle in adverse conditions. It is not a substitute for safe driving practices. Factors including speed, road conditions, and driver steering input may affect whether ESC is effective in preventing loss of control. You are still responsible for driving and cornering at reasonable speeds and leaving sufficient safety margin.

When you press the brake pedal under conditions that may cause the wheels to lock, you may hear a "tick-tick" sound from the brakes, or feel a corresponding pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and means that your ESC is active.

✽ NOTICE

A clicking sound may be heard from the engine compartment when the vehicle starts moving after the engine has been started. These conditions are normal and indicate that the Electronic Stability Control system is operating properly.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Forte BD quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.