Fiat 500 Abarth Owner's Manual page 236

234 STARTING AND OPERATING
WARNING!
The 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 all accidents, in-
cluding 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, attentive, and skillful driver can
prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ESC equipped
vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or danger-
ous manner which could jeopardize the user's safety or
the safety of others.
ESC Operating Modes
The ESC system has three available operating modes.
Full On
This is the normal operating mode for ESC. Whenever
the vehicle is started, the ESC system will be in On mode.
This mode should be used for most driving situations.
ESC should only be turned to Partial Off for specific
reasons as noted below.
Partial Off
This mode is entered by momentarily pressing the ESC
Off switch. This mode is intended for times when a more
spirited driving experience is desired. It is also intended
for driving in deep snow, sand or gravel conditions,
when more wheel spin than ESC would normally allow is
required to gain traction.
To turn ESC on again, momentarily press the switch
again. This will restore the normal ESC On mode of
operation.