25 Sep Auto Electronic Stability Control: Understanding Its Purpose
It’s amazing how much automotive technologies have advanced over the last two decades. Car brands advertise their new vehicles with impressive-sounding catchphrases, claiming all sorts of important-sounding safety features. For the average person, it may not be easy to discern the purpose of all of them. In this blog, I’d like to discuss electronic stability control (or the ESC system), which is a driver-assistance safety feature found on all newer vehicles.
What Is Electronic Stability Control?
Electronic stability control (ESC) is an advanced safety feature that helps drivers maintain control of their vehicles on slippery roads or during emergency maneuvers. It continuously monitors your vehicle’s lateral acceleration, steering wheel angle, and speed through various electronic sensors. If the ESC system detects a need for driver-assistance, it automatically engages to prevent your vehicle from skidding out of control and rolling over. Since 2012, the NHTSA has required all new passenger vehicles, multipurpose passenger vehicles (MPVs), and trucks sold in the USA to have an ESC system installed.
Is ESC The Same Thing As ABS or TCS?
The electronic stability control system may utilize your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) to slow down individual wheels, but its overall function is broader. Many ESC systems can also analyze data from the traction control system (TCS), which senses wheel slippage during acceleration and reduces engine power until traction is restored. While these three safety systems overlap, your ESC system serves a different purpose from both the ABS and the TCS.
Driver-Assistance Systems
Driver assistance systems have the potential to reduce motor vehicle crashes and injuries due to human error. These emerging automotive technologies help keep you and your passengers safe, as well as other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. These technologies include:
- Collision Warning – Front, Rear, Side, Blind Spot
- Emergency Braking – Forward, Reverse, Pedestrian, Blind Spot
- Driving Control Assistance – Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, Lane Keeping
- Automatic High Beams
- Backup Camera
- Automatic Crash Notification
How Safety Features Help Drivers
Auto manufacturers design their safety features to apply to a wide range of motorists in various applications. Some driver-assistance technologies sound an alarm to warn you of an impending crash or potential problem. While others take active steps to avoid accidents or hazards. It’s important to remember that a safety feature aims to aid the driver, but not take the place of the driver.
ESC System Components
ESC Control Unit
The ESC control unit acts like a mini-computer. It receives information from numerous sensors and uses that data to assess risks. If it detects a potential issue, the control unit adjusts the vehicle’s trajectory by applying the brakes (or slowing) individual wheels or reducing engine power to prevent traction loss and steering instability.
Lateral Acceleration Sensors
The lateral acceleration sensors measure the vehicle’s side-to-side (lateral) forces during cornering or turning sharply. These sensors help the ESC system recognize when your vehicle loses traction and slides sideways. In these situations, the ESC system intervenes to restore control and prevent the automobile from rolling over.
Steering Wheel Angle Sensor
The steering wheel angle sensor tracks the steering wheel’s position. If the driver understeers or oversteers to avoid a collision, but the vehicle continues to move straight forward, the ESC system takes corrective actions.
Wheel Speed Sensors
Wheel speed sensors monitor the rotational speed of each individual wheel. They detect wheel-slip and traction loss when the speed suddenly changes. When any of the wheels spin faster or slower than expected, the ESC system adjusts braking and engine power to regain control.
Signs Of ESC System Issues
Depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and year, your ESC system may look or behave a bit differently from other vehicles. Generally, when the ESC system is actively engaged, the ‘ESC’ light on your dashboard may illuminate. When the situation returns to normal, the light will turn off. This is a normal occurrence and should not cause concern. However, the following signs require your attention and possibly a service appointment to correct.
- Faulty Sensors: When data does not transmit to the control unit, warning lights may trigger. They can be the ABS, ESC, or even the TPMS light that may illuminate. It’s best to schedule a diagnostic service to figure out the problem.
- System Re-set or Re-initialize: Occasionally, servicing other components may require re-initializing the ESC system. Examples include installing a new battery, performing brake maintenance, or swapping your tires. Verify with your service technician whether they need to check that all your vehicle’s safety features are functioning correctly before leaving.
Vehicle Service in Plymouth Meeting, PA
Plymouth Auto & Tire Center in Plymouth Meeting, PA, specializes in auto repair, braking systems, and preventative maintenance. We are a full-service station offering comprehensive automotive and light-duty truck services Monday through Saturday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Our experienced technicians can help troubleshoot any issues with your vehicle’s electronic stability control.
Make An Appointment
Call us at (610) 825-6558 or visit our website to make your next appointment!