Electronic Stability Control

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

To determine whether the car is responding properly to cornering commands, Electronic Stability Control (ESC(R)) uses steering wheel angle, yaw (turning) rate and lateral acceleration sensors (combined into Dynamics Sensor). Using signals from these sensors, in addition to individual wheel speed sensor signals, the system determines appropriate brake and throttle actions. Once initiated, ESC(R) operates much like All-Speed Traction Control, except that the goal is directional stability. If the vehicle yaw response, or rate of turning, is inconsistent with the steering angle and vehicle speed indications, the ESC(R) system applies the brakes and, if necessary closes the throttle, to restore control. This occurs whether the vehicle is turning too rapidly (oversteering) or not rapidly enough (understeering).

HYDRAULIC BRAKE ASSIST

Brake Assist is programmed into the ESC(R) system. During a panic stop, a pressure sensor determines when the driver is doing so by measuring the brake pedal pressure application rate. A high rate of pedal pressure application causes the ESC(R) system to apply maximum available pressure to the brakes and the vehicle stops as quickly as available traction will allow.

TRACTION CONTROL

For information on the All-Speed Traction Control, Brakes - Operation.