Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
This system further improves vehicle stability and steering response when the vehicle is driving on a slippery road or when the vehicle detects a difference in friction coefficient between the right and left wheels during braking.
WARNING - Tire/Wheel Size
When replacing tires and wheels, make sure they are the same size as the original tires and wheels. Driving with different tire or wheel sizes may reduce any additional safety benefits of the VSM system.
VSM Operation
When VSM is operating, the ESC indicator (
) flashes.
When the Vehicle Stability Management system is operating properly, you may feel a slight pulsation in the vehicle and/or an unusual steering response (EPS - Electric Power Steering). This is only the effect of brake and EPS control and does not indicate anything unusual.
VSM does not operate when:
- Driving on a sloped road, such as an incline or decline
- Driving in reverse
- The ESC OFF indicator light (
) remains on the instrument cluster - The EPS indicator remains illuminated 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.
WARNING. Vehicle Stability Management.
Drive carefully, even if your vehicle is equipped with Vehicle Stability Management. It can help you maintain control only under certain circumstances.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
VSM can be deactivated even if you do not cancel VSM operation by pressing the ESC OFF button. This indicates that a malfunction has been detected somewhere in the electric power steering system or the VSM system. If the ESC indicator (
) or the EPS warning light remains on, take your vehicle to an authorized Kia dealer and have the system inspected.
✽ NOTICE
- VSM is designed to operate at speeds above approximately 22 km/h in curves.
- VSM is designed to operate at speeds above approximately 10 km/h when the vehicle brakes on a split-mu surface. A split-mu surface consists of two surfaces with different friction coefficients.
- 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.
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.
Test yourself
A quick Kia Optima DL3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.