When the Service ESC light appears on your dashboard, it indicates your vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control system has detected a potential loss of traction or skidding, and you need to take immediate action to prevent accidents.
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) monitors the speed at which the wheels are rotating as well as other parameters such as the steering angle.
When you lose the steering control or traction, the ESC tries to reduce the engine power or engage the brakes to help you regain control of the vehicle.
The ESC system does not work the same way on all vehicles. As such, it is always important that you refer to your manufacturer’s manual to understand how yours works.
Generally, the ESC light illuminates when the car is losing control and stays illuminated when a malfunction has been detected or the system has manually shut off.
Electronic Stability Control (often abbreviated to ESC) is a safety device that is almost certainly fitted to your car.
What Does The ESC Light Warning Mean?
“The ESC Warning Light stands for electronic stability control. The ESC works in harmony with the traction control system to help you control your vehicle in slippery terrain.” While some forks call traction control in place of electronic stability control – they are not the same.
Your car’s electronic stability control is a valuable safety feature. A malfunctioning ESC will stop working until any issues are fixed.
An ESC indicator light illuminated on the vehicle’s dashboard can mean one of several things:
- Out of control. Electronic stability control is active and operating to maintain traction and direction because it senses the vehicle is not under control.
- Malfunction. The ESC system is malfunctioning or has been deactivated. You should promptly take the car to a qualified mechanic to correct the problem.
- Slippery conditions. An ESC dashboard light may indicate that driving conditions are slippery. You should slow down to improve your control.
How Electronic Stability Control(ESC) works
Electronic stability control modulates the engine throttle and each wheel’s brake. Like other driver aids, ESC turns on when you start your car.
The technology operates in the background, monitoring steering wheel activity and speed sensors on each wheel.
When sensors determine the driver is losing control, the ESC system engages automatically to adjust for oversteer and understeer.
It applies or eases the brakes of each wheel on the car to bring the vehicle back onto the intended path.
ESC involves the traction control systems, adjusts engine power to reduce speed, and applies brakes if the driver gives too much gas.
These manipulations can significantly reduce your risk of being in a rollover. They help keep the car on the road, where it is less likely to be “tripped” by something off the roadway and flip over.
- ESC increases brake pressure to one side of the vehicle to steer it gently in that direction. Results vary depending on whether and how much the front or rear brakes are applied.
- Electronic stability control does not apply hard braking or steering automatically.
- ESC estimates the direction of the skid. It asymmetrically applies the brakes to individual wheels to bring the car back in line with the driver’s commanded direction.
- The ESC system may reduce engine power or operate the transmission to slow the vehicle down.
Causes of the Electronic Stability Control Light(ESC)
In today’s modern vehicles, all sorts of indicators, warnings, and lights tell you when something isn’t right with your car or truck.
So when the electronic stability control light comes on in your dashboard, it’s time to take note of the message it has for you and take steps to get it fixed as soon as possible to keep your vehicle operating at peak performance.
Learn more about why your electronic stability control light may be coming on and what you can do about it below!
#1. Wheel Misalignment.
One common cause of the electronic stability control light is wheel misalignment. This can happen if your car hits a pothole or curb or if you go over a speed bump too fast.
If your vehicle starts pulling to one side while driving, your wheels are likely misaligned. You’ll need to align them with a professional as soon as possible.
#2. System Has Been Turned Off.
If you have car trouble and the electronic stability control light comes on, it could be because the system has been turned off.
This is possible because most car manufacturers allow drivers to turn the ESC system off. However, it’s important to remember that only in rare circumstances should this system be shut off.
#3. Steering Angle Sensor.
Another cause of the electronic stability control light is a problem with the steering angle sensor. The steering angle sensor tells the car’s computer how far the wheels are turned.
If it gets damaged or out of alignment, it can cause the light to come on. A car trouble specialist will need to check and fix the sensor if necessary.
#4. Anti-Lock Brake System Malfunction.
Another common cause of the electronic stability control light is a malfunction in the anti-lock brake system.
This can be caused by various things, such as low brake fluid, worn-out brake pads, or a problem with the sensor.
If you’re experiencing this issue, you must take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to check it out.
#5. Low Battery.
Car trouble can be frustrating, and it’s never fun when a warning light comes on. The electronic stability control (ESC) warning light can be caused by electrical issues such as a low car battery or a blown a fuse.
If your car’s ESC warning light is on, see your mechanic as soon as possible to get the problem diagnosed and fixed. Driving with a malfunctioning ESC can make your car harder to control on the highway.
Symptoms of Electronic Stability Control Light(ESC)?
Being aware of the symptoms of a bad or failing ESC system can help you take necessary action before a minor issue turns into a major problem. Here are some key signs to look out for:
#1. Illuminated ESC Warning Light.
If the ESC warning light on your dashboard, which is usually a car icon with skid marks, stays on consistently, it’s a clear indication that there might be something wrong with your ESC system.
Additionally, a “Service ESC” message might appear, showing a problem with the ESC system.
#2. Flashing ESC Light.
When the ESC light on the dashboard flashes, it means that the ESC system is working to keep the vehicle stable.
However, if the flashing happens frequently or during normal driving conditions, such as driving straight on a dry, flat road, it could suggest that the ESC system is too sensitive or not functioning properly.
#3. Loss of Traction or Skidding.
The ESC system aims to prevent the car from slipping or becoming unstable. If you observe an increase in skidding or sliding, especially in conditions where it didn’t happen before, it could imply that the ESC system is not working correctly.
#4. Unusual Brake Behavior.
If there is a problem with the ESC system, you might experience abnormal braking behavior such as pulsating brakes or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking. This is due to the selective application of brakes to individual wheels by the ESC system.
#5. Difficulty Steering.
ESC helps control the vehicle’s direction, particularly in extreme steering maneuvers. If you notice a decreased response or difficulty when steering, it could be a symptom of an ESC issue.
#6. Unusual Noises.
If you hear strange noises while braking or making turns, it’s possible that the ESC system has a problem.
Listen for grinding or constant ABS pump noises, which could be a sign that the ESC system is activating inappropriately.
#7. The Vehicle Controls Differently.
If you notice that your vehicle is not controlling well during turns or on slippery roads, it may imply a problem with the ESC system.
You might experience oversteering where the vehicle turns more than you intend or understeering where it turns less than expected.
#8. Traction Control Light Illuminated.
Since ESC and traction control systems work in tandem, an issue with the ESC might also cause the traction control warning light to illuminate.
Why do cars need ESC?
ESC is now a legal requirement, but it’s there to benefit you.
For example, on a particularly wet day, you could hit an unexpected puddle and find your car skidding across the road.
An ESC system will detect a sudden loss of grip, and reduce power to help you regain control.
That said, it will never completely eliminate the risk of you losing control of your car. You must be vigilant and use your car’s throttle delicately in hazardous driving conditions.
Which cars have ESC?
ESC (sometimes known as ESP) has been a legal requirement for all cars sold in the European Union since 2014. This continues to apply to new cars sold in the UK post-Brexit as well.
Car manufacturers have used the tech long before that, however. These systems have been around since the ‘80s.
There’s a very good chance your car has some form of ESC, even if it’s quite old now.
Is It Safe to Drive When The ESC Light Is On?
You can still drive even when the ESC light is illuminating, but you need to take precautions such as slowing down.
Also, have all issues affecting the ESC addressed by a certified technician as soon as possible.
If you need electronic stability control repair, give our auto repair shop a call today!
What happens when ESC fails?
Your ESC can fail. This isn’t ideal but it’s possible, especially if the system becomes disabled or is malfunctioning.Effects of a failed ESC system:
- Difficulty maintaining control of the car
- Increased risk of skidding or losing traction, and rolling especially when going around corners
- Increased likelihood of accidents
- Reduced effectiveness of other safety features such as the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) or Traction Control System (TCS). These systems may rely on the ESC system to function correctly
If your ESC system fails, it’s important to get it checked out immediately.
Benefits of Electronic Stability Control
ESC systems use steering wheel position sensors to compare the wheel’s position to the vehicle’s actual steering response.
If it detects something isn’t quite right, the ESC makes minor adjustments to the brakes or engine torque to help a driver maintain control.
An automobile’s ESC system provides many benefits:
- Counteracts vehicle skidding in slippery conditions
- Helps provide corrective support for emergency maneuvers in critical driving situations
- Provides valuable assistive functions for driving safety, comfort, and agility
- Helps the driver maintain control of the car overall
Electronic Stability Control vs. Traction Control
Electronic stability control is a complex system that helps to keep your car stable and driving in the direction you want to steer it.
The vehicle’s sensors and computer work together to find the intentions of the car’s motion versus its actual motion.
The traction control system helps keep a car’s grip between the tires and the road in slippery or dangerous conditions by limiting how much the wheels can spin.
This makes it easier to stay connected to the surface when accelerating up a slippery hill or moving from a stopped position on a slick or unstable surface.
Your car’s antilock braking system must function properly for the stability and traction control systems to work.
Should We get ESC serviced?
When the ESC service required message appears, it means there’s a problem with the system that could potentially affect its ability to perform.
The ESC system only needs to be looked at when a fault occurs, and the warning light is on. Issues can vary, from a malfunctioning sensor to a problem with the brake system or computer control unit.
The ESC system doesn’t need servicing like you would service a car and the cost of repairs vary, depending on what part is causing the issue.
This is why it’s important to keep up with the overall health of your car.
Buying a new car and understanding manufacturers different specifications
Many car manufacturers fitted ESC as standard or as an option before 2014. All have their own names or acronyms, which can make comparing specifications difficult.
All of these mean the same thing:
- ESP Electronic Stability Programme
- ESC Electronic Stability Control
- VDC Vehicle Dynamic Control
- DSC Dynamic Stability Control
- VSA Vehicle Stability Assist
- ASC Active Stability Control
- DSTC Dynamic Stability and Traction Control
Why Is Electronic Stability Control So Important?
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) detects dangerous driving situations – like taking a corner too quickly. The ESC will cut off the excess throttle and apply brakes and ABS to handle the situation.
Sometimes its effect is not even noticeable, but you’ll definitely know when it kicks in. Cornering too quickly would be a problem without the ESC as your car could lose grip and oversteer or understeer.
The same goes for hard acceleration – ESC will reduce power so your car doesn’t spin out unnecessarily.
The ESC can steer the vehicle back onto its intended path by using brakes on certain wheels. When oversteer is detected, the outer front wheel can be braked to counteract the spin.
On the other hand, if understeer is detected, the inner rear wheel can be braked to assist in turning.
The ESC does this by gathering and interpreting data from several sensors, choosing when to react based on thresholds.
Wheel spin, steering wheel position, vehicle rotation, and lateral acceleration are all taken into account.
Diagnosing the Problem
When the service ESC light comes on, it means there is an issue with the electronic stability control system that needs diagnosis.
Here are the main steps to properly diagnose the problem:
- Use an OBD2 scanner to pull any diagnostic trouble codes related to the ESC system. This will give you a starting point on which components could be malfunctioning. Common codes include wheel speed sensor codes like C0035, yaw rate sensor codes like C0036, and steering angle sensor codes like C0037.
- Thoroughly inspect the wheel speed sensors located at each wheel. Look for damage, corrosions, bent sensors, etc. Unplug the sensors one at a time and check the resistance values per the factory spec. Values outside the spec indicate a bad sensor that needs replacement.
- Carefully check all wiring harnesses and connections related to the ESC system. Look for chafed, cut, pinched, or corroded wires. Make sure the connectors are fully seated and locking properly. Faulty wiring is a common cause of intermittent ESC problems.
- Test the yaw rate sensor and steering angle sensor by disconnecting them and ensuring the values change as expected when turning the steering wheel. If the values do not change or are erratic, the sensors may need to be replaced. Consult a factory service manual for the exact testing procedures.
Properly diagnosing the issue requires methodically checking each component of the ESC system, verifying fault codes, and testing sensors.
How do you fix the ESC light?
As reiterated above, several factors can cause the car computer to project service ESC light on Chevy Malibu and other car models.
The issue is common in Chevy Malibu. However, this section will explain how to fix the ESC light.
#1. Turn on the ESC system.
Check if the system is off or if your vehicle has the option to turn it off and on it. It could be your kid or someone who has mistakenly pressed the button.
#2. Confirm if there’s any other light.
Examine the dashboard and see if any other light exists. Note any unusual light that accompanies the electronic stability control light. This will help you to easily track the root cause of the light.
#3. Replacing faulty wheel speed sensors.
If the ESC warning light appears along with the speed sensor light, you most likely have a lousy speed sensor. In this case, test the wheel speed sensor and replace the defective ones.
They are pretty affordable. You can decide to replace them in pairs. After that, drive the vehicle for a mile or two, and the light will disappear.
#4. Adjusting the steering angle.
If your truck steering angle is offset, it can trigger the service ESC light on the dashboard. A common sign that you have an offset steering angle is if the tires are not straight when you position the steering wheel in the center. You can fix the problem by adjusting the steering angle.
#5. Check the fuses.
While this may sound weird, it may be a lifesaver. We encountered the ESC light on a customer’s Chevy Malibu and tried several things that proved abortive.
Then, we resort to checking the fuses. However, all the related fuses were good. But the light disappears after we reinstall them.
#6. Contact a certified mechanic.
If none of these solve the problem, don’t hesitate to contact an auto mechanic to track the culprit and proffer solutions.
Cost of Fixing ESC Light
You may be wondering how much it will cost to fix the ESC of your car if it is malfunctioning. Let me give you an example of a Chevy Malibu ESC.
On average, the cost of replacing the traction control switch of a Chevrolet Malibu ranges from $66 to $78.
As for labor charges to service ESC on a Chevy Malibu, the cost can run from $44 to $56. These average costs do not include fees and taxes.
You still must pay these charges for your particular Chevy year and model.
FAQs.
Is it safe to drive with the ESC light on?
Driving with the ESC light is not safe. However, the illumination of an ESC light does not necessarily mean you have a problem.
You don’t need to worry if the service electronic control light comes on and off while skidding or driving on slippery terrain. It’s absolutely normal.
If the service ESC light comes on and off or stays lit while driving on solid and straight pavement, you have a problem that needs concern. This is not a safe situation to be driving.
How much does electronic stability control cost?
According to a report by NHTSA, the average installation cost of an ESC system in vehicles that already have ABS is $111.
This amount is pretty cheap, considering the importance of the electronic stability control system.
Is ESC the same as traction control?
Traction control and electronic stability control are two different safety systems used in cars to help the driver control the wheels in certain situations.
The traction control system is used to help the tires hug the roads perfectly under intense acceleration, while electronic stability reduces or prevents loss of control through understeer or oversteer.
Should ESC be on or off?
Typically, the ESC system should always be on. But there are times to turn it off, especially when driving in deep snow or skidding.
Regardless, do not turn off the ESC system unless you’re an extremely skilled driver who knows what he or she is doing.
In any case, If you decide to turn off the ESC for any reason, you can do it by pressing and holding the ESC button for 5-10 seconds.
Final Words
While modern technologies and features improve driving experiences and reduce accident rates, they can be unnerving and frustrating when things start going south.
In any case, do not write off the ESC system no matter the challenges you may face, because they can be life savers when you need them most.
This article has explained what a service ESC light on the dashboard means, the causes, and how to fix the culprit.
Follow the above guides religiously if you find yourself in this situation. If any of these probable solutions solves your problem, refer this article to your friends who may need it.