Audi A3  Driver assistance  Intelligent technology  Electronic stabilisation control (ESC)
Centre console (top): ESC button
Fig. 1 Centre console (top): ESC button
The ESC is switched on automatically when the engine is started.
The ESC operates in several levels. Depending on which level is selected, the stabilising function of the ESC is restricted or switched off, and the vehicle is stabilised to a greater or lesser degree.
In the following special situations, it may be advisable to switch on the sport mode to allow a certain amount of wheelspin:
  • Rocking the car backwards and forwards to free it
  • Driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces
(A) 
(B) Sport mode on
(C) ESC/ASR off
(D) Sport mode off or ESC/ASR on
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
Characteristics
The stabilising function of the ESC and traction control system (ASR) is restricted WARNING!.
The stabilisation function is no longer available WARNING!. ESC and traction control system (ASR) are switched off.
The stabilising function of the ESC and traction control system (ASR) is fully available again.
Controls
Press the OFF button briefly.
Press the OFF button for longer than 3 seconds.
Press the  OFF button again.
Indicator lamps
lights up.
and * light up.
goes out, or and * go out.
Driver messages
Stabilisation control (ESC): sport. Warning! Restricted stability
(on vehicles with driver information system*)
Stabilisation control (ESC): off. Warning! Restricted stability
(on vehicles with driver information system*)
Stabilisation control (ESC): on
(on vehicles with driver information system*)
WARNING!
You should switch on the sport mode or switch off the ESC/traction control system (ASR) only if your driving ability and the traffic conditions allow you to do so safely - danger of skidding!
  • The stabilising functionality is restricted when sport mode is switched on. The driven wheels may start to spin, causing the vehicle to lose grip, in particular on slippery or wet roads.
  • When the ESC/traction control system (ASR) is switched off, the vehicle will not be stabilised.
Note
  • The ESC/traction control system (ASR) cannot be switched off and the sport mode cannot be switched on when the cruise control system* or adaptive cruise control* is on.
  • In the event of a malfunction in the Audi magnetic ride, it may not be possible to switch off the ESC/ASR or switch on the sport mode.

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