What system helps a driver maintain control during a skid by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels?

Electronic Stability Control helps a driver maintain control during a skid by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels.

ESC continuously compares the driver’s intended path, inferred from steering-wheel angle, with the vehicle’s actual movement. Wheel-speed sensors, a yaw-rate sensor, and lateral-acceleration measurements help the control unit detect understeer, oversteer, or another developing loss of control. It can then brake one or more wheels independently to create a corrective turning force.

For example, ESC may brake an outer front wheel during oversteer or an inner rear wheel during understeer. Many systems also reduce engine torque when braking alone is not enough. The goal is not to make a car corner faster, but to help bring its path closer to the driver’s steering input.

ESC is often confused with ABS or traction control. ABS prevents wheel lock during braking, while traction control limits wheelspin during acceleration. ESC uses some of the same hardware and may incorporate both functions, but its defining task is correcting vehicle-direction instability. It cannot overcome the laws of physics, worn tires, excessive speed, or a surface with insufficient grip.