So, there is a button for this symbol on the control module which resembles a car skiddering around and the same symbol shows up on the dash where the speedo is as well. How or why should I activate it, or does it come on automatically when I'm in the W mode? Or S mode? It's not activated on my car but winter is coming....

Thanks, in advance!

hotwheels aka Dianne

 

When you drive on ice or compacted snow the symbol will light up when the tires are slipping and you have no traction.

 

It's the ESP ( Electronic Stability Program ).
It's ALWAYS activated, the button is to turn it off.
When it flashes on the dash, that's a signal that it took over and got yer butt out of trouble.

 

Just to add to what others have said..........If you turn it off with the switch then the light on the dash stays on. I highly suggest you keep it on all the time. It's the 3rd button from the left on the lower console right next to the red triangle flasher button.

 

i shut mine off on fast take offs & light to light runs playing around always fun !!!

 

Mine comes on when on dry asphalt, is there something wrong???
No ice or compacted snow here.

 

Yes it's called lead foot to heavy on gas pedal on take off !!! LOL

 

You actually want that symbol on all the time....makes life a lot more interesting and fun....just sayin'

 

I call it my Wiggle light. I think, in layman's language, it is saying "you have or are on the verge of loosing traction"... a must have indicator of "about to go over the cliff"...keep it on!!!..Carl

 

Page 111 of my 2008 owner's manual states, "To improve the vehicle's traction when driving with snow chains, or STARTING OFF in deep snow, sand or gravel, SWITCH OFF the ESP system by pressing the upper half of the ESP SWITCH".

I think the idea here is ....if a tire starts to slip when starting off in snow.....the ESP applies that brake....& sometimes this just makes things worse. After you get going.....turn it back on.

I have an automatic now, but used to also have a 6 speed XF.....Tire Rack a few years back dumped a Blizzak "WINTER TIRE" that had gone for $400 when they first came out.....for $100.......You would not believe how it transformed the XF in the snow!!!!!!!!!!!