Audi Q5   Driving tips   Intelligent technology  Electronic stabilisation program (ESP)
Version A: Centre console (bottom), ESP OFF button
Fig. 1 Version A: Centre console (bottom), ESP OFF button
Version B: Centre console (top), ESP OFF button
Fig. 2 Version B: Centre console (top), ESP OFF button
The ESP is switched on automatically when the engine is started.
ESP off-road mode
An ESP off-road mode has been developed specially for driving off-road. For maximum traction and braking performance when driving off-road, the ESP inputs have been reduced to allow a certain amount of wheel spin. The ESP system intervenes at a later point which means that the car's stability is restricted.
The ESP off-road mode can be useful in the following particular circumstances:
  • Rocking the car backwards and forwards to free it
  • Driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces
  • Driving on rough terrain when much of the car's weight is lifted off the wheels (axle articulation)
  • Driving with snow chains
  • Braking on unsurfaced tracks when driving downhill
For your own safety you should switch off the ESP off-road mode in time.
Switching on ESP off-road mode
Press the ESP OFF button Fig. 1 or Fig. 2. The warning lamp will light up and the message ESP Offroad will appear in the driver information system display.
Switching off ESP off-road mode
Press the ESP OFF button again to switch back to the normal ESP operating mode. The warning lamp will go out and the message ESP/ASR on will appear in the driver information system display.
WARNING!
  • You should switch on the ESP off-road mode only when driving off-road or driving with snow chains.
  • When the vehicle is in ESP off-road mode, the wheels may start to spin, causing the vehicle to lose grip - danger of skidding!
  • The car's stability is restricted in ESP off-road mode.
Note
ESP off-road mode cannot be activated when the adaptive cruise control (ACC)* is activated.