A traction control device on an automobile, also known as an electronic stability program (ESP), is a safety feature that is designed to limit power to the vehicle's wheels to minimise spin on slippery roads. The ESP system on the Ford Fiesta functions by automatically reducing wheelspin through a computerised braking system whenever the on-board computer detects wheel slippage. Traction control is standard on the front-wheel-drive Ford Fiesta ST but not all Fiestas are equipped with an option to disable the function.

Locate the button on your Fiesta console labelled "ESP." If no button is present, your model is not equipped with the disablement option.

Release pressure from the accelerator and push the "ESP" button if the wheels spin excessively, such as when you are stuck in mud or snow.

Look on the dashboard for the light that displays "ESP Off" to confirm that the vehicle's traction control has been disabled.

  • A traction control device on an automobile, also known as an electronic stability program (ESP), is a safety feature that is designed to limit power to the vehicle's wheels to minimise spin on slippery roads.
  • Look on the dashboard for the light that displays "ESP Off" to confirm that the vehicle's traction control has been disabled.

Apply light, steady pressure to the accelerator.

Re-engage the traction control when the vehicle starts to move freely by releasing pressure on the accelerator and pressing the "ESP" button again. When the "ESP off" light on the dash goes off, it means traction control is on. Resume driving normally.

TIP

The ESP will automatically reset when you turn off the engine in your Fiesta.

WARNING

Because the ESP function is a safety feature, it should remain enabled unless there is a good reason to deactivate the feature.