Safety systems

Modern cars have various electronic safety systems. ABS prevents the wheels from locking during hard braking, so you can keep steering. ESP (electronic stability control) intervenes when the car threatens to break away in a bend and brakes individual wheels in a targeted way. TCS (traction control) prevents the driven wheels from spinning when accelerating on a slippery surface. Airbags supplement the seatbelt — without a seatbelt an airbag can actually cause injury. ISOFIX is a standardised attachment system for child seats that anchors the seat firmly to the bodywork. Important: these systems support you, but they do not change the laws of physics. ESP can limit a skid but cannot work miracles on ice; so always adjust your speed. An ABS or ESP warning light that stays on means the system may not be working — have it checked.