2002 Saab 9-5 Owner's Manual - Page 168

168 Starting and driving Electronic Stability Program (ESP) (option/certain models only) The Electronic Stability Program employs both the antilock braking system (ABS) and the traction control system (TCS). It is a safety system that helps the driver to stabilize the car in unusual circumstances that can otherwise be difficult to handle. IB478 How the ESP system works The Electronic Stability Program can help to prevent the car from skidding by braking one or several wheels independently of the driver. The engine output is then also reduced to prevent the driving wheels from spinning. The car has sensors that measure wheel speed, yaw acceleration, lateral acceleration, steering wheel position and braking pressure. The values provided by these sensors are used to calculate the actual direction of the car. If this direction does not agree with that intended by the driver, calculated from the steering wheel position, the ESP is engaged. ESP improves the driver's chances of retaining control over the car in critical situations. Turning the TCS off The TCS is switched on automatically when the engine is started. The system can be switched off manually by the TCS button, whereupon on the main instrument panel will come on. The TCS system cannot be switched off if the car is travelling faster than 35 mph (60 km/h). It may be necessary to switch off the system if the car has become bogged down, for instance. Press TCS to switch it on again. If a fault is detected in the ABS system, the TCS will be switched off automatically. The cruise-control system will automatically be disengaged after one second if it is active when the TCS starts to operate. ESP OFF The if: light in the rev counter comes on • A fault has been detected and the system has therefore been switched off. • The system has been switched off manually. • When the ignition key is turned to the ON position, the lamp is lit for about four seconds while the system undergoes a self-test. IB1847