Five Signs Your Ford’s Electronic Stability Control Needs Service

Electronic stability control (ESC) in your Ford helps prevent your vehicle from sliding or skidding out of control by using sensors to detect problems. Your local Ford dealership can perform an ESC service to provide peace of mind that this critical system is working at its best.

Five Signs Your Ford’s Electronic Stability Control Needs Service

1. Changes to Braking Performance

Your brakes are an integral part of the ESC system, which means that when one goes wrong, it can affect the other. A malfunctioning ESC could prevent your brakes from working properly when needed, making them unresponsive or extending braking distance. It may also activate the brakes with no warning, slowing your car unexpectedly.

Any of these actions could be very dangerous. If you notice any change in the performance of your brakes, you should always arrange for an urgent check by your dealership.

2. Poor Traction in Slippery Conditions

The ESC system performs a vital role when the surface is slippery, such as when it’s wet, muddy, or icy. If you notice you’re finding it hard to control your Ford in conditions that your car could normally handle, there may be a fault with the ESC. Left unaddressed, your car could end up skidding or fishtailing, or simply become undrivable in slippery conditions.

3. Loss of Control

You may not usually notice your ESC quietly working away in the background, but when it’s not functioning, you’ll notice an overall loss of control. This may be more general swaying or difficulty maintaining stability when making a sharp turn. If not rectified this could escalate, leading to a total loss of control during maneuvers and the car skidding off the road.

4. Unusual Vibration and Noise

Strange noises or vibrations in the cabin can be due to a multitude of causes and should always be checked. However, if grinding or clicking occurs just as the ESC kicks in, the system may have a problem.  

5. Illuminated Dashboard Warning Light

Last but certainly not least, you may be alerted to an issue with the ESC due to the dashboard light illuminating. The light may stay on, flash, or flicker on and off. There are a number of issues that could cause the ESC light to illuminate, such as wheel misalignment, faulty brakes, or a weak battery. It can also be due to a fault within the ESC system, so any kind of illumination should never be ignored.

Schedule an ESC Service at Your Nearest Ford Dealership

If you notice any of the above signs or you have another problem, your local dealership can help. They can inspect your ESC system and carry out any repairs, as well as check for any other problems that might be affecting how your car runs.

To get advice from professionals you can trust, contact us today at Koons Ford Silver Spring in Silver Spring, MD. 

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