It would be difficult to find a modern car without some variation of an Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. This system is in place to reduce the risk of road accidents and increase the traction between your tyres and the road. Read on to learn what to do if you spot a warning light connected with the electronic stability system.
Why is My ESP Warning Light On?
If your Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) warning light is on, this will usually indicate that you are either driving on a slippery surface or that there is a problem with your electronic stability program system. When you are driving on a slippery surface such as a wet road, the light will turn on to demonstrate that it is working. Usually, the light flashes in this case. However, if you are driving on a normal surface and the light is constant, you have an issue with your electronic stability system.
What is the ESP Warning Light?
The electronic stability programme warning light will usually show when your car loses traction if you are driving over a slippery surface. It will usually flash while the system is activated and then switch off when traction is regained and your car goes back to normal. However, if the light is stationary while you are driving over normal surfaces, this can indicate a number of different faults.
What Does it Mean When the ESP Light is Flashing?
If you notice the ESP light flashing or see a flashing light that shows a car with some wavy lines when you are driving on a slippery surface or the car has skidded, this means that the system is working correctly. The light flashes demonstrate that the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system has taken over to regain traction and stability to keep you safe.
How Does the ESP Dashboard Light Work?
The ESC is a system that works in conjunction with others, including the anti-locking brakes and traction control system. If one wheel loses traction, the ESC reduces power and applies the brakes to correct your car’s stability. It can also inform the engine to reduce power if your car is steering dangerously, which affects the power being supplied to the wheels. This can protect you in a situation such as driving on ice, where you might be revving the car but there is no traction on the wheels.
What are the Common Reasons the Electronic Stability Programme Warning Light Will Come On?
There are several faults that could be behind an ESP warning light on your dash. These are:
Faulty Wheel ABS Sensors
The sensors in the wheels provide the ABS control unit with information about each wheel’s speed. This allows the ABS to make the necessary corrections if one or more of the wheels slips. If a sensor fails, it might detect a wheel slip that has not happened, which can cause the light to switch on.
Faulty ABS Rings
The ABS sensor measures the speed of the wheels from the ABS ring. If these rings are faulty or broken, it can cause the sensor to measure the wrong speed.
Faulty Brake Pedal Switch
The ESP system needs to be informed when you press the brake, and there is a switch installed on the brake pedal that ensures this function works correctly. However, a fault with the switch could cause the wrong information to be sent out, which can lead to the ESP light coming on.
Faulty Throttle Body
When your car slips, the throttle body is used to control power output for the ESP system. A fault with the throttle body will cause the ESP light to be switched on.
Faulty Steering Angle Sensor
The steering angle is also used by the ESP system to determine what to do if your car is slipping. If there is a fault or the steering angle sensor is programmed incorrectly, the ESP light may come on.
ABS Wiring Problems
There are also wires from the ABS unit to control each wheel sensor. However, the suspension causes these wires to move a lot, which can lead to wear and tear over time.
Is it Dangerous to Drive with My ESP Warning Light On?
The ESC system is in place to help you avoid losing control of the vehicle, but it cannot do everything. If the light is flashing when you are driving, it is important to be careful. Slow down so that the car is easier to control in slippery conditions. If the light is static and indicates a fault, then you should have it inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. While it is still safe to drive in normal conditions with this light on, you should be extremely careful in slippery conditions if there is a fault with your ESC system.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix the ESP Warning Light?
If the light is flashing, the problem will be fixed as soon as the car regains traction on the road. However, if the light indicates a fault, the cost can vary depending on the reason for the fault and any parts that need to be repaired or replaced. The best way to get an idea of the cost is to book your car in for a diagnostic test with a mechanic who can determine the problem and what needs to be done to repair it.
Will My Car Fail its MOT if the ESP Warning Light is On?
The reason why your ESP warning light is on will determine whether or not it is a pass or a fail at the MOT. Usually, any problems with your ABS system will cause the car to fail an MOT as these are integral to the safety of your vehicle. MOT examiners now include checking for warning lights as a part of the test, and any warning lights that are related to the ESC or ABS systems tend to be an automatic fail. Damage to the components in the ESC system can also cause your vehicle to fail the test.
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