Kia Picanto: Brake system / Electronic Stability Control (ESC) : (if equipped)

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system in your Kia Picanto helps stabilise the vehicle during cornering. It compares the direction you indicate through the steering wheel with the direction the vehicle is actually travelling, helping identify when the two no longer match.

To help restore stability, ESC can apply braking force to individual wheels and adjust engine operation through the engine management system. These interventions work together to help the driver maintain control.

WARNING

Never drive faster than road conditions allow or enter a corner at excessive speed. Electronic Stability Control cannot prevent every accident. Taking turns too quickly, making abrupt manoeuvres or hydroplaning on a wet surface can still lead to a serious collision. Safe, attentive driving remains essential: avoid actions that cause the tyres to lose traction, allow for changing road conditions and maintain a suitable speed. Having ESC fitted does not remove the need to follow normal safe-driving precautions.

ESC is an electronic driving aid intended to help you maintain vehicle control in difficult conditions. It cannot replace sound judgement or safe driving habits. Vehicle speed, the condition of the road and your steering inputs all influence how effectively the system can respond to a developing loss of control. You remain responsible for choosing appropriate driving and cornering speeds and leaving enough safety margin to react to hazards.

When braking in conditions that could cause the wheels to lock, you may hear a repeated ticking sound from the brakes or feel a corresponding pulsation through the brake pedal. These sounds and sensations are normal during active brake control and do not, by themselves, indicate a fault.

NOTE

A clicking sound may come from the engine compartment when the vehicle first moves after the engine has started. This is a normal operating characteristic and indicates that the Electronic Stability Control system is functioning.

• ESC operation. Indicator light
• ESC OFF usage