These instructions apply to the Hyundai Tucson Mk3 (TL) 2015-2020.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
The ESC (Electronic Stability Control) on the Hyundai Tucson Mk3 (TL, 2015–2020) keeps the car stable by braking individual wheels and trimming engine power when it senses a slide. You can switch part of it off with the ESC OFF button — useful when you need wheelspin to rock the car out of snow, mud or sand. For normal road driving, leave it on.
Where the Button Is
The ESC OFF button is on the lower dash to the left of the steering wheel, marked with a car and wavy skid lines above the word OFF. It sits in the same switch cluster as the headlight leveling and instrument dimmer controls.
How to Turn ESC Off
- With the engine running, press the ESC OFF button briefly.
- The ESC OFF warning light comes on in the cluster, confirming traction/stability control is reduced.
- Press the button again — or restart the car — to switch ESC back on.
Good to Know
- ESC switches itself back on every time you restart the engine; a short press can’t make “off” permanent.
- Turning ESC off disables the traction-control wheelspin limit, which is exactly what helps when a wheel is stuck. Once moving, turn it back on.
- If the ESC OFF light comes on by itself (you didn’t press the button), the system has found a fault — it won’t intervene until that’s fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I drive with ESC off?
No, not on the road. ESC is a major safety system; only switch it off briefly to free the car from snow, mud or sand, then turn it back on.
Why won’t my Tucson’s ESC OFF light go out?
If it stays on without you pressing the button, the system has stored a fault — often a wheel-speed sensor or the steering-angle sensor. Have the code read before relying on ESC again.
Does ESC off stay off after I park?
No. The Tucson re-enables ESC automatically at the next engine start, so you have to press the button again each drive if you want it off.
If the ESC or a related light is on, look the fault code up on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Hyundai. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.