Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Electronic Stability Program Description
Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) has the following main functions.
- ABS/EBD
ABS controls four wheel brake forces individually detecting each wheel slip condition. On the other hand, EBD controls front and rear wheel braking forces detecting loading distribution of the vehicle. ABS improves the braking stability and controllability. For the details, refer to ABS DESCRIPTION .
- Traction control
This functions to control engine torque and braking force detecting wheel spin during vehicle starting and accelerating.
- Stability control
This functions to control engine torque and braking force detecting over steering or under steering during cornering.
- Hill descent control (If equipped)
This functions to control down-slope running of the vehicle at a constant low speed without tires being locked. For this control, the ESP® control module activates the pump motor and each solenoid valve to operate the brake pressure applied to 4 wheels. This function enables the vehicle to run on the down-slope with a steep gradient where the engine brake alone cannot provide enough deceleration, or where the road surface is rough or slippery, without driver's brake operation.
- Hill hold control (If equipped)
This functions to prevent occurrence of creeping down which may occur at the driver's foot shift from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal when starting the vehicle parked on the up-slope. For this control, the ESP® control module activates each solenoid valve to keep the brake pressure. The vehicle can be stopped by this function for 2 seconds maximum.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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