Jeep CHEROKEE User Manual page 81

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
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(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 position.
Understeer — when the vehicle is turning

less than appropriate for the steering
wheel position.
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 TCS is active. If the "ESC Activa-
tion/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
conditions. ESC cannot prevent acci-
dents, 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 inap-
propriate driver input for the conditions.
Only a safe, attentive, 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.
WARNING! (Continued)
Vehicle modifications, or failure to prop-

erly maintain your vehicle, may change
the handling characteristics of your
vehicle, and may negatively affect the
performance
Changes to the steering system, suspen-
sion, 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 modifica-
tion 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)
of the ESC system.
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