Jeep Grand Cherokee 2020 Owner's Manual page 125

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 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(s) to assist in counteracting the oversteer
or understeer 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 understeer 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 posi-
tion.
The "ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light" located in the instrument cluster will start
to flash as soon as the ESC system becomes
active. The "ESC Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light" also flashes when the Traction
Control System (TCS) is active. If the "ESC
Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light" begins
to flash during acceleration, ease up on the
accelerator and apply as little throttle as
possible. Be sure to adapt your speed and
driving to the prevailing road conditions.
WARNING!
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot

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 accidents,
including those resulting from excessive
speed in turns, driving on very slippery
surfaces, or hydroplaning. ESC also cannot
prevent accidents resulting from loss of
vehicle control due to inappropriate driver
input for the conditions. Only a safe, atten-
tive, and skillful driver can prevent acci-
dents. The capabilities of an ESC equipped
vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless
or dangerous manner which could jeopar-
dize the user's safety or the safety of others.
WARNING! (Continued)
Vehicle modifications, or failure to properly

maintain your vehicle, may change the
handling 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 unevenly worn tires may also degrade
ESC performance. Any vehicle modification
or poor vehicle maintenance that reduces
the effectiveness of the ESC system can
increase the risk of loss of vehicle control,
vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.
(Continued)
SAFETY 123
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