- Fig. 1 Version A: Centre console (bottom),
OFF button
- Fig. 2 Version B: Centre console (top), OFF button
The ESC is switched on automatically when the engine is started.
Switching off the traction control system (ASR)
In particular circumstances, it may be advisable to switch off the traction control system (ASR) to allow a certain amount of wheel spin. For example:
- Rocking the car backwards and forwards to free it
- Driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces
- Driving with snow chains
Press the OFF button briefly Fig. 1 or Fig. 2. The indicator lamp 
will light up and the message Traction control (ASR): off. Warning! Restricted stability will appear on the driver information system display.
OFF button briefly Fig. 1 or Fig. 2. The indicator lamp will light up and the message Traction control (ASR): off. Warning! Restricted stability will appear on the driver information system display.The traction control system (ASR) can only be switched off at speeds below 50 km/h on Audi A5s with front-wheel drive. At 70 km/h it will switch on again automatically. The ASR can be deactivated at any speed on Audi A5s with four-wheel drive.
Switching off the ESC
Press the OFF button for longer than 3 seconds. The ESC indicator lamp will light up and the message Stabilisation control (ESC): off. Warning! Restricted stability will appear on the driver information system display. The ASR is also deactivated when the ESC is switched off.
OFF button for longer than 3 seconds. The ESC indicator lamp will light up and the message Stabilisation control (ESC): off. Warning! Restricted stability will appear on the driver information system display. The ASR is also deactivated when the ESC is switched off.Switching on
Press the OFF button again. The indicator lamp will go out and the message Stabilisation control (ESC): on will appear on the driver information system display.
OFF button again. The indicator lamp will go out and the message Stabilisation control (ESC): on will appear on the driver information system display.WARNING!
You should switch off the ESC only if your driving ability and the traffic conditions allow you to do so safely. Please note that, when the ASR and ESC are switched off, the driven wheels may start to spin, causing the Audi A5 to lose grip, in particular on slippery or wet roads - danger of skidding!
Note
The ASR and ESC cannot be switched off when the adaptive cruise control (ACC)* is on.