Definition: Available since the mid-1990s, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) -- sometimes also referred to as Electronic Stability Program (ESP) -- is an electronic safety technology that can help a driver maintain control of his vehicle.
On equipped vehicles, ESC uses a variety of sensors to monitor wheel speed, vehicle direction and other variables. If the system determines that a driver is close to losing control of a vehicle, the throttle and/or individual wheel brakes are manipulated to bring the vehicle back under control.
While not a completely failsafe system, both the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institure for Highway Safety (IIHS) have conducted tests that prove ESC can help reduce auto accidents deaths if widely used.
Also Known As: Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Alternate Spellings: Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Common Misspellings: Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Examples: On equipped vehicles, ESC uses a variety of sensors to monitor wheel speed, vehicle direction and other variables. If the system determines that a driver is close to losing control of a vehicle, the throttle and/or individual wheel brakes are manipulated to bring the vehicle back under control.