2014 Nissan Sentra Owner's Manual - Page 289

VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC) SYSTEM The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system uses various sensors to monitor driver inputs and vehicle motion. Under certain driving conditions, the VDC System helps to perform the following functions: ● Controls brake pressure to reduce wheel slip on one slipping drive wheel so power is transferred to a non slipping drive wheel on the same axle. ● Controls brake pressure and engine output to reduce drive wheel slip based on vehicle speed (traction control function). ● Controls brake pressure at individual wheels and engine output to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle in the following conditions: - understeer (vehicle tends to not follow the steered path despite increased steering input) - oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due to certain road or driving conditions) The VDC system can help the driver to maintain control of the vehicle, but it cannot prevent loss of vehicle control in all driving situations. indiWhen the VDC system operates, the cator in the instrument panel flashes to note the following: ● The road may be slippery or the system may determine some action is required to help keep the vehicle on the steered path. ● You may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise or vibration from under the hood. This is normal and indicates that the VDC system is working properly. ● Adjust your speed and driving to the road conditions. See "Slip indicator light" and "Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off indicator light" in the "Instruments and controls" section. If a malfunction occurs in the system, the indicator light comes on in the instrument panel. The VDC system automatically turns off when the indicator light is off. The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the VDC indicator illuminates to indisystem. The cate the VDC system is off. When the VDC switch is used to turn off the system, the VDC system still operates to prevent one drive wheel from slipping by transferring power to a non slipping drive wheel. The indicator flashes if this occurs. All other VDC indicator will not functions are off and the flash. The VDC system is automatically reset to on when the ignition switch is placed in the off position then back to the on position. The computer has a built in diagnostic feature that tests the system each time you start the engine and move the vehicle forward or in reverse at a slow speed. When the self-test occurs, you may hear a clunk noise and/or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and is not an indication of a malfunction. WARNING ● The VDC system is designed to help the driver maintain stability but does not prevent accidents due to abrupt steering operation at high speeds or by careless or dangerous driving techniques. Reduce vehicle speed and be especially careful when driving and cornering on slippery surfaces and always drive carefully. 5-32 Starting and driving