Back to Lexicon

ESC

Updated: January 5, 2025

Active Safety Systems

Definition

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is an active safety system that helps prevent vehicle skidding and loss of control by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power.

Category: Active Safety Systems

Electronic systems that actively monitor and intervene to enhance vehicle safety

Electronic Stability Control monitors vehicle dynamics and driver inputs, automatically intervening when it detects loss of steering control or vehicle instability by selectively applying brakes and managing engine power.

Related Terms

ABS

Active Safety Systems

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is a safety system that prevents wheel lockup during braking by modulating brake pressure, allowing the driver to maintain steering control during emergency braking.

ESP

Active Safety Systems

Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is an active safety system similar to ESC that helps maintain vehicle stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction through brake and engine interventions.

SAS

Active Safety Systems

Sophisticated Air Bag Sensor (SAS) is an advanced sensor system that determines optimal airbag deployment based on crash severity, occupant position, and other factors.