Tesla · Amber · Important

Tesla ESC — stability control

The amber ESC icon on a Tesla fires in two scenarios: Slip Start mode activated (intentionally off for snow/mud escape) or a stored fault.

What this indicator means

Tesla ESC coordinates torque per wheel via independent dual-motor control (on AWD models). This gives finer control than classic wheel-braking. But it also needs more data — losing one sensor disables the whole system.

Common causes

Slip Start enabled (in Autopilot → Driver settings)
Wheel-speed sensor (same as ABS)
YAW sensor issue
Steering-angle sensor out of calibration (after repair)
Multiple subsystem faults after firmware update

What to do as a driver

Check Vehicle Settings → Autopilot → Slip Start (verify not enabled). If off, run diagnostics with a Tesla-compatible scanner. Check 12V AGM too.

Safety

Important: without ESC, slide behaviour is much worse. Avoid slippery roads.