Definition
ESP (Electronic Stability Program) is an active safety system that detects lateral skidding (understeer or oversteer) and corrects it by braking individual wheels and, if needed, reducing engine power. Its goal is to keep the vehicle on the driver's intended path.
Key facts
- Mandatory on all cars sold in the EU since November 2014.
- Significantly reduces loss-of-control crashes.
- If the ESP indicator flashes while driving, the system is intervening — slow down and steer smoothly.
Practice real questions on this topic
Free DGT 2026 test with exam-style questions and explanations. No signup. Or explore the free DGT test in English hub for everything in one place.
In the DGT exam
- In a car’s conventional hydraulic brakes, which of these situations is NOT a usual cause of reduced effectiveness?
- What use of the brakes can cause them to overheat?
- If a vehicle’s brakes get wet, what can happen?