If you’ve ever had to swerve to miss a hazard in the road, or had to perform an emergency brake, it’s likely that you’ve experienced your car’s electronic stability programme first-hand, even if you didn’t realise it at the time. These sensors can be critical in enhanced safety when it comes to correcting over or under-steering. So, if you’ve noticed that flashing ESP light on your dash, you might be wondering just how the system works and how you can make sure it continues to work as it should.
What is Car ESP?
ESP, or electronic stability programme, is a technology on a car that helps to stabilise a vehicle when the system detects that the car is not travelling in the intended direction.
Since 2014, ESP has been mandatory on all new cars in the EU, with some cars having it before it became a requirement.
If you’re wondering what the difference is between ESP and ESC (electronic stability control), the answer is that they’re pretty much identical. Other variations of ESP include VDC (vehicle dynamic control), VSA (vehicle stability assist) or DSC (dynamic stability control).
How Does ESP Work in a Car?
Explaining that a car can detect which way you’d like to be facing even if you’re not facing that way sounds like magic, but it’s just great engineering and software. Using a multitude of sensors, the car’s computer detects which direction you’re facing, the speed you’re travelling and if your vehicle is likely to spin.
If the ESP detects that you are losing control, it adjusts the braking and engine power to help you regain stability.
When in dangerous situations, it can be almost impossible to think clearly, meaning that you may not think to ease off the accelerator or tap the brake when you realise the vehicle is out of control. With ESP, the computer does these things for you to avoid the chances of a collision.
Do All Cars have ESP?
All new cars since 2014 have ESP as a legal requirement brought in by the European Union. Despite the UK leaving the EU in 2020, it is still legally enforced that cars must have an Electronic Stability Programme.
Can an ESP Fault Fail an MOT?
If the ESP light is displaying on the dashboard, this indicates a fault in the system. A fault in the system can be potentially dangerous so you must identify and fix it before taking the MOT test.
How to Fix an ESP Fault
There are several steps you can follow when fixing an ESP fault:
1. Inspect the dashboard. When troubleshooting issues with the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) in your vehicle, begin by inspecting the dashboard for warning lights related to ESP malfunctions. If illuminated, it suggests a problem within the system.
2. Examine the vehicle’s sensors and connectors. This is to check for potential damage or loose connections. Often, issues arise due to sensor malfunctions or poor connections. Clean and secure any loose connectors using Holts’ Electrical Contact Cleaner and replace faulty sensors if necessary.
3. Check your tyres. You should check tyres for proper inflation and tread depth, as ESP relies on accurate wheel speed information. Irregularities in tyre condition may trigger false alarms or hinder the system’s effectiveness.
4. Assess the onboard diagnostics system. If all physical components appear intact, consider accessing the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system for error codes. These codes can provide valuable insights into specific faults within the ESP system. You may wish to seek professional assistance from a qualified technician here.
The Key Differences Between ESP and Traction Control
While ESP and traction control are similar in that they are both stability controls, ESP uses more variables to judge where there is a need for the system to kick in. Traction control only measures whether the wheels are spinning and reduces engine power, whereas ESP measures speed, direction of travel and likelihood of spinning.
The Difference between ESP and ESC
ESP and ESC are different terms for almost identical pieces of technology. Electronic stability programme and electronic stability control may be slightly different based on the manufacturer but they both operate using the same parameters to achieve the same goal of stability when the car is likely to lose control.
The electronic stability programme included in your modern vehicle is incredibly important and should not be taken for granted or ignored should a fault arise. For more tips and guidance, check out our help and advice hub.
