cdanek

I've lost my owners manual and the google searches have been somewhat vague. Pressing the ESP button gives me a flashing indicator, pressing and holding it gives me a solid indicator. What's the difference?

James6290

I am almost positive that when you hit it for a second it gives you partial ESP, it should only kick in when it thinks you are going to kill yourself. The second stage (holding it down) should make it go all the way off, even in the worsed circumstances. Than, of course, with it on, it will kick in when even you make even the slightest mistake. Don't hold me against it though ( I heard it in a Fifth Gear episode).

ELEVENS

normal=stability+traction (no fun is allowed)
press button (flashing)=stability only (lets you drag race)
hold button = turns off both stability and traction control (lets you drag race and power slide)

ABS remains activated in all three modes.

cdanek

Perfect, thanks 11s

Jet Jockey/A4 Pilot

And ESP "under braking" is not totally OFF.

I would really like for someone to copy and paste the actual manual so that I can read it please.

RSIV

Electronic stabilization program (ESP)
The electronic stabilisation program (ESP) makes the vehicle easier to control in handling situations close to the limit It reduces the danger of swerving and thus improves directional stability. ESP identifies the car's intended direction and response. It applies the brakes on individual wheels, thereby generating one-sided forces that help to keep the car moving in the desired direction. The program uses the anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), the electronic differential lock (EDL) and the traction control (ASR) system, and is permanently active.

The latest version, ESP 8.0 also offers a dry brake function: in adverse weather conditions, the system wipes water off the brake discs at regular intervals by applying the brake pads. This process goes unnoticed by the driver and reduces the stopping distance in wet weather compared with conventional brake systems.

Note:
ESP cannot override a car's physical limits. If a driver pushes the possibilities of the car's chassis and ESP too far, ESP cannot prevent an accident.<ul><li><a href="http://www.audi.com/audi/com/en2/tools/glossary/safety/electronic_stabilization_program.html">Electronic stabilization program (ESP)</a></li></ul>

Jet Jockey/A4 Pilot

Thanks but that's not from the manual which may go more in depth in its operation.

DrCondor

Thanks for the refresher...I had forgotten about the 'max fun' setting!!

absoluteis

What I mean is, examples of how the ESP stage 1 acts ?

I think that ESP 1 will allow wheelspin under acceleration.

But what happens if you take a turn too fast?

What happens if you jam on the accelerator while in a turn?

What about if one wheel is on ice or you hit a slippery spot with one side of the car?

I guess this is all the things i need to do after a nice ice storm to test it...