Safety Features; Electronic Stability Control (Esc) - Fiat 500L 2018 User Manual

SAFETY FEATURES

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

This system enhances directional control and
stability of the vehicle under various driving
conditions. ESC corrects for oversteering or
understeering of the vehicle by applying the brake
of the appropriate wheel to assist in counteract-
ing the oversteering or understeering condition.
Engine power may also be reduced to help the
vehicle maintain the desired path. ESC uses
sensors in the vehicle to determine the vehicle
path intended by the driver and compares it to
the actual path of the vehicle. When the actual
path does not match the intended path, ESC
applies the brake of the appropriate wheel to
assist in counteracting the oversteer or under-
steer condition.
• Oversteer - when the vehicle is turning more
than appropriate for the steering wheel posi-
tion.
• Understeer - when the vehicle is turning less
than appropriate for the steering wheel
position.
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WARNING!
• The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can-
not prevent the natural laws of physics from
acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the
traction afforded by prevailing road condi-
tions. ESC cannot prevent all accidents,
including those resulting from excessive
speed in turns, driving on very slippery
surfaces, or hydroplaning. ESC also cannot
prevent collisions resulting from loss of
vehicle control due to inappropriate driver
input for the conditions. Only a safe, atten-
tive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents.
The capabilities of an ESC equipped vehicle
must never be exploited in a reckless or
dangerous manner which could jeopardize
the user' s safety or the safety of others.
• Vehicle modifications, or failure to properly
maintain your vehicle, may change the han-
dling characteristics of your vehicle, and may
negatively affect the performance of the
ESC system. Changes to the steering system,
suspension, braking system, tire type and size
or wheel size may adversely affect ESC
performance. Improperly inflated and un-
WARNING!
evenly worn tires may also degrade ESC
performance. Any vehicle modification or
poor vehicle maintenance that reduces the
effectiveness of the ESC system can in-
crease the risk of loss of vehicle control,
vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.
ESC Operating Modes
The ESC system has two available operating
modes.
Full On
This is the normal operating mode for ESC.
Whenever the vehicle is started, the system will
be in this mode. This mode should be used for
most driving situations. ESC should only be
turned to "Partial Off" for specific reasons as
noted. Refer to "Partial Off" for additional infor-
mation.