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The ESC is switched on automatically when the engine is started.
- Fig. 78 Centre console:
OFF button
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
- Driving with snow chains
Sport mode on | ESC/ASR off | Sport mode off or ESC/ASR on | |
Characteristics | The stabilising function of the ESC and traction control system (ASR) is restricted ►. | The stabilisation function is no longer available ►. 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  button briefly. | Press the button for longer than 3 seconds. | Press the button again. |
Indicator lamps |  lights up. | and      * light up. | goes out, or and * go out. |
Driver messages | Stabilisation control (ESC): sport. Warning! Restricted stability | Stabilisation control (ESC): switched off. Warning! Restricted stability | Stabilisation control (ESC): switched on |
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
- In the event of a malfunction in the rear spoiler system, in the Audi magnetic ride or in the four-wheel drive system, it may not be possible to switch off the ESC/ASR or switch on the sport mode.
- Some racing circuits (e.g. with banked curves) can affect the behaviour of the ESC.