Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

ELECTRONIC STABILITY PROGRAM

DESCRIPTION
ESP (Electronic Stability Program), which includes a Brake Assist feature, is standard on some models and optional on others. ESP aids the driver in maintaining vehicle directional stability ESP will do whatever can be done, within the limits of available traction, to keep the car on course.

ESP uses the ABS with Traction Control along with the following components to operate:
- Dynamics Sensor
- Steering Angle Sensor (SAS)

The Dynamics Sensor that is mounted under the center console, which is near the center of gravity of the car for effective sensing. The Steering Angle Sensor is located in the steering column.

OPERATION
To determine whether the car is responding properly to cornering commands, ESP 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, ESP 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 ESP 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).