2010 Suzuki Kizashi Owner's Manual - Page 162

OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) (if equipped) ESP® is a registered trademark of Daimler AG. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) helps to control the vehicle during cornering if front wheels or rear wheels skid. It also assists you in maintaining traction while accelerating on loose or slippery road surfaces. It does this by regulating the engine's output, and by selectively applying the brakes. In addition, ESP® helps to avoid skidding by controlling braking pressure. The ESP® has the following three systems: Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) ABS will help you avoid skidding by electronically controlling braking pressure. It will also help you maintain steering control when braking on slippery surfaces or when braking hard. The ABS works automatically, so you do not have to use any special braking technique. Just push the brake pedal down without pumping. The ABS will operate whenever it senses that wheels are locking up. You may feel the brake pedal pulsate while the ABS is operating. (For more information on ABS, see "Braking" in the "OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE" section.) NOTE: If the ABS system is activated, you may hear a clunking noise and/or feel pulsating in the brake pedal. This is normal and indicates that the brake fluid pressure is being controlled properly. Stability Control System The vehicle stability control system helps provide integrated control of systems such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, engine control, etc. This system automatically controls the brakes and engine to help prevent the vehicle from skidding when cornering on a slippery road surface or when turning the steering wheel abruptly. Traction Control System The traction control system automatically helps prevent the spinning of wheels when the vehicle is started or accelerated on slippery road surfaces. The system operates only if it senses that some of the wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system operates the front or rear brakes and reduces engine power to limit wheel spin. NOTE: You may hear a clicking sound in the engine compartment for a few seconds when you start the engine or just after the vehicle begins to move. This means that the above systems are in the self-check mode. This sound does not indicate a malfunction. WARNING The ESP® cannot enhance the vehicle's driving stability in all situations and does not control your vehicle's entire braking system. The ESP® cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, or hydroplaning. Only a safe and attentive driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ESP®equipped vehicle must never be used as a substitute for careful driving. 3-31