2010 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 248
2010 Chevrolet Malibu Manual
Page 248 highlights
The system may be heard or felt while it is working; this is normal. When the light is on solid and either the SERVICE ESC or ESC OFF message is displayed, the system will not assist the driver in maintaining directional control of the vehicle. Adjust your driving accordingly. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 4-43. The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is automatically enabled whenever the vehicle is started. To assist the driver with vehicle directional control, especially in slippery road conditions, the system should always be left on. But, ESC can be turned off if needed. If the vehicle is in cruise control when the system begins to assist the driver maintain directional control of the vehicle, the ESC/TCS light will flash and the cruise control will automatically disengage. The cruise control system may be re-engaged when road conditions allow. See Cruise Control on page 4-7. The ESC/TCS button is located on the instrument panel. The traction control system can be turned off or back on by pressing the ESC/TCS button. To disable both traction control and ESC, press and hold the button briefly. When the ESC system is turned off, the TRACTION OFF and ESC OFF messages will appear, and the ESC/TCS light will be on solid to warn the driver that both traction control and ESC are disabled. It is recommended to leave the system on for normal driving conditions, but it may be necessary to turn the system off if the vehicle is stuck in sand, mud, ice or snow, and you want to "rock" the vehicle to attempt to free it. It may also be necessary to turn off the system when driving in extreme off-road conditions where high wheel spin is required. See If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 5-19. ESC may also turn off automatically if it determines that a problem exists with the system. The ESC OFF and SERVICE ESC messages and the ESC/TCS light will be on solid to warn the driver that ESC is disabled and requires service. If the problem does not clear after restarting the vehicle, see your dealer/retailer for service. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 4-43 for more information. Adding non-dealer/non-retailer accessories can affect the vehicle's performance. See Accessories and Modifications on page 6-3 for more information. 5-6