Electronic Stability Program - MK25

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

To determine whether the car is responding properly to cornering commands, ESP uses steering wheel angle, yaw (turning) rate and lateral acceleration sensors (combined into Dynamics Sensor). Using signals from these sensors, in addition to individual wheel speed sensor signals, the system determines appropriate brake and throttle actions. Once initiated, ESP operates much like All-Speed Traction Control, except that the goal is directional stability. If the vehicle yaw response, or rate of turning, is inconsistent with the steering angle and vehicle speed indications, the ESP system applies the brakes and, if necessary closes the throttle, to restore control. This occurs whether the vehicle is turning too rapidly (oversteering) or not rapidly enough (understeering).

ESP notifies the active brake booster electronically of the need for maximum output. A solenoid opens a valve in the booster that immediately applies maximum boost to the master cylinder. A travel sensor in the booster detects the rate and travel of the brake pedal. Above the threshold of an "extreme" brake application, ESP activates the solenoid, thus applying maximum available hydraulic pressure to the brakes. In this type of situation, stopping distance is determined by the ABS system based on available traction, rather than the amount of force that the driver can exert on the brake pedal. This becomes the deciding factor in how quickly the vehicle will stop.