FIAT Panda User Manual

Page 78

ESC SYSTEM (Electronic Stability

Control)

(for versions/markets, where provided)

This is an electronic system that controls car stability
in the event of tyre grip loss, helping maintain
directional control. The system is capable of
recognising potentially dangerous situations in terms
of the stability and intervenes automatically on the
brakes in a differentiated manner for the four wheels
in order to provide a stabilizing torque.
The ESC system also includes the following
subsystems:
❒ Hill Holder
❒ ASR
❒ HBA
❒ ABS
❒ EBD

SYSTEM INTERVENTION

It is signalled by the flashing of the ESC warning light
on the instrument panel, to inform the driver that
the car is in critical stability and grip conditions.

SYSTEM ACTIVATION

The ESC system switches on automatically when the
engine is started and cannot be switched off.

HILL HOLDER SYSTEM

This system is an integral part of the ESC system and
facilitates starting on slopes.
It is activated automatically in the following instances:
❒ uphill: car stationary on a road with a gradient

higher than 5%, engine running, brake pressed and
gearbox in neutral or gear (other than reverse)
engaged;

❒ downhill: car stationary on a road with a gradient

higher than 5%, engine running, brake pressed and
reverse gear engaged.

When setting off, the ESC system control unit
maintains braking pressure on the wheels until the
torque required for starting is reached or, in any
case, for a maximum of 2 seconds so that the right
foot can be moved easily from the brake pedal to the
accelerator pedal.
When 2 seconds have elapsed, without any
departure having taken place, the system is
automatically deactivated, gradually releasing the
braking pressure. During this release stage, a typical
mechanical brake release noise can be heard,
indicating that the car is about to move.
NOTE: the Hill Holder system is not active with
engaged parking brake.

GETTING TO

KNOW YOUR CAR

SAFETY

STARTING AND

DRIVING

WARNING LIGHTS

AND MESSAGES

IN AN EMERGENCY

SERVICING AND

MAINTENANCE

TECHNICAL

SPECIFICATIONS

INDEX