What is the full form of ESC?

Introduction

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is a computerised technology used in all vehicles to detect loss of traction and skidding. When the technology detects the loss of control steering, it automatically applies the brakes and assists the drivers in whatever direction they are going.

This system also oversees the other driving factors, like steering, throttle, and rotation around the vehicle's vertical axis, to detect the loss of control. It is an innovative technology that assists the drivers of vehicles to be safe and sound in a mishap, and it greatly reduces the chance of the drivers losing control of the vehicle.

Working Principle of ESC

The working principle of ESC (Electronic Stability Control) modulates the engine's throttle and individual brakes that prevent the car from spinning out of control or ploughing out, and the system is activated as soon as the car starts.

When the sensors detect that the driver is losing control, the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system automatically engages to oversteer and understeer. It either applies or eases the brakes of each car's wheels intended to bring the car back to its original path and stabilises it.

ESC (Electronic Stability Control) is activated when the vehicle starts. It continuously monitors the vehicle's speed via the sensors and steering inputs. The system monitors the direction of the skidding through a control sensor called YAW. It asymmetrically applies the brakes on the individual wheels so that the vehicle is steering according to the driver's direction.

The ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system may also slow down the vehicle or reduce the engine power to slow down the car. The ESC (Electronic Stability Control) has traction control systems that help reduce the engine power to reduce the speed and apply the brakes if the driver gives too much gas. This working mechanism of the ESC system reduces the risk of the vehicle being rolled over and helps it be on the road where it cannot be tripped over something on the road, etc.

Benefits of ESC

The benefits of the ESC ( Electronic Stability Control) system are vast, given the fact it assists in avoiding major mishaps. Here are some of the benefits of ESC −

Efficiency

The major benefit of the ESC system is its efficiency. It automatically activates and applies the brakes on individual wheels without human intervention.

Anti skidding

It prevents major accidents by not allowing the car to skid. Because in many cases, if the car skids, it rolls over too. The ESC system helps in avoiding these unfortunate circumstances.

Stability Control

In extreme driving conditions, it acts as the driver's assistant, like, for example, driving on a wet and slippery road. If the driver loses control of the car, then this stability control feature of the ESC system assists in driving the car.

Emergencies

In case of emergencies, if the car loses control, then the ESC system can help you maintain control of your car if you are steering hard or applying a brake.

While the ESC system starts working from the time the vehicle starts, in situations like steering the wheel hard or sudden braking when the system automatically reduces the engine speed, the driver might feel a slight discomfort like lurking and jerking, but it is normal.

Limitations of ESC

The ESC system is a computerised technology which has several benefits. But it also comes with a number of limitations. Those are −

Cornering speeds

The ESC system is a safety feature that is important in every car, but when it comes to cornering speeds, it is only effective in controlled cornering as it is designed specifically for that; it cannot gain traction in fast cornering. It is a major drawback of the ESC Electronic Stability Control( ESC) system.

Lax Driving Behavior

With this system in place, the driver may feel complacent, thinking that driving without safety is permissible, but the ESC system is designed for specific circumstances. If the car is over the speed limit, then this system cannot help in the cornering, and the car will roll over.

Condition of The Tires

The ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system's effectiveness is compromised if the vehicle tires are not in good condition.

Braking System

If there is a problem with the anti-lock braking system, like worn brake linings and dirt, air or fluid in the brakes can compromise the system.

Intervention

Sometimes this system can cause unnecessary intervention if a driver aggressively drives in a closed and controlled environment, like riding a car on a racetrack and trying to drift. The ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system will not allow it.

High-performance driving

Steering input during high-performance driving may not always indicate the right direction of travel. The ESC system can intervene when it is not required.

Brake light Switch

A defective brake light switch can trigger the light for the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system, and this issue can be solved by replacing the defective brake light switch.

Conclusion

Conclusion

FAQs

Q1. What is the other name for Electronic Stability Control( ESC)?

The other name for Electronic Stability Control( ESC) is Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or Dynamic Stability Control( DSC).

Q2. Can the ESC system stop the car from rolling over?

The Electronic Stability Control( ESC)system can only stop the car from skidding but rolling over depends on the car's speed.

Q3. Can the ESC system be switched off partially or completely?

In some cars, the ESC Electronic Stability Control( ESC) has the feature of partially and completely switching off the ESC system.