Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is designed to stabilize the vehicle when cornering. ESC checks where you are steering and where the vehicle is actually going. ESC brakes individual wheels and intervenes with 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 result in serious accidents. Only a safe and attentive driver can prevent accidents by avoiding maneuvers that cause loss of traction. Even with ESC, always observe all normal driving precautions, including driving at a speed safe for the conditions.
WARNING
For maximum protection, always wear your seat belt. No system, however advanced, can compensate for all driver errors and/or driving conditions. Always drive responsibly.
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 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. Factors including speed, road conditions, and driver steering inputs may affect whether ESC can effectively prevent loss of control. You are still responsible for driving and cornering at a reasonable speed and leaving sufficient safety margin.
When you depress the brake pedal in conditions where the wheels may 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 starting the vehicle or when moving off after starting the engine. These conditions are normal and indicate that the Electronic Stability Control system is operating normally.
Test yourself
A quick Kia Optima DL3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.