Country: South Africa

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Severity: Caution (Amber)

Stability control (ESP/ESC) warning

A car with a skid trace behind it, meaning electronic stability control is intervening or unavailable.

Can you continue driving?

Yes, with caution — get it checked soon

Electronic stability control symbol

What this light means

Electronic stability control is either intervening right now (flashing) or unavailable (steady). ESC is the system that detects a slide beginning and brakes individual wheels to correct it, usually before the driver has registered anything is wrong.

Common causes

  • Switched off deliberately by the driver
  • A steering angle sensor needing calibration, often after alignment work
  • A wheel speed, yaw rate or brake pressure sensor fault
  • An underlying ABS fault

What to do now

Flashing: reduce speed and make your steering inputs smooth. The car is already working at the limit of grip.

Steady: you are driving without the safety net. Slow down in wet, cold or loose conditions and avoid sudden steering or lifting off mid-corner.

When to see a mechanic

Soon. Stability control is among the most effective safety systems ever fitted to cars, and driving for weeks without it is a poor trade for a repair that is usually straightforward.