Electronic stability control (ESC) is a safety feature in cars that helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle and helps prevent it from spinning out due to a loss of traction. ESC is also known as Vehicle Stability Control, Electronic Stability Program, Dynamic Stability Control, and other names. The system is on by default and works automatically and unobtrusively in the background until needed.

An antilock braking system (ABS) moderates vehicle brake pressure in emergency-stopping situations. Instead of applying sudden, constant pressure to the brakes, ABS rapidly pumps them. ABS prevents the wheels and steering from locking up, causing the vehicle to skid and the driver to lose control. Locked wheels increase stopping distance and inhibit the driver from steering around the obstacle they’re trying to avoid.