As a content creator for cardiagnosticnearme.com and an automotive repair specialist, I’m always keen to explore the performance capabilities of vehicles, particularly when it comes to understanding how different systems interact and affect handling. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Maserati Ghibli Sq4 in a controlled skid pad environment, and part of this exploration involved temporarily disabling some of its safety systems. This write-up details that experience, focusing on the effects of deactivating the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and front-wheel drive on this luxury performance sedan.
The exercise was conducted under professional supervision, with all necessary safety precautions in place, including helmet, gloves, and appropriate footwear. The goal wasn’t reckless driving but to gain a deeper understanding of the Ghibli SQ4’s dynamics in extreme conditions and how these electronic aids shape its behavior.
To disable the ABS, ESC, and front-wheel drive, the process was surprisingly straightforward. Locating fuse #52, a 10-amp mini fuse situated at the front bottom-most left of the fuse box, I carefully removed it. Interestingly, there was an empty slot right beneath it, which served as a convenient temporary storage for the fuse. The immediate result of pulling this fuse was a cascade of warning lights illuminating the dashboard, resembling a Christmas tree. Messages like ‘Service ABS’ also appeared, confirming the systems were indeed offline.
The initial session was on a dry skid pad. Even with the safety systems disabled, the Ghibli SQ4, equipped with Michelin tires, exhibited remarkable grip. Pushing the throttle aggressively in a radius, the car displayed a tendency to understeer, pushing forward rather than breaking traction at the rear. Initiating a drift in these dry conditions proved challenging; the tires held firm, and the car remained stubbornly planted.
Moving to a wet surface skid pad revealed a different character. At moderate throttle inputs, the Ghibli SQ4 maintained commendable composure. However, once the turbochargers spooled up and delivered a surge of power, the rear end became much more eager to step out. This transition resulted in several spins as the car transitioned into oversteer. A notable observation during these spins was the automatic engagement of neutral by the transmission, accompanied by engine shutdown each time the car rotated excessively. Restarting the Ghibli SQ4 after a spin required a specific sequence: shifting to park, releasing and then depressing the brake pedal before engaging the starter.
Despite the altered dynamics with disabled systems, achieving a controlled drift remained elusive. My skill level in initiating and maintaining a drift proved insufficient, highlighting the need for more practice in such scenarios.
Following the skid pad exercises, the fuse was reinstalled, reactivating the ABS, ESC, and front-wheel drive. With all systems back online, the Maserati Ghibli SQ4 returned to its composed and confident self. Subsequently, the car performed flawlessly on the track (with all systems enabled) and during the drive home. There were no apparent lasting issues or malfunctions resulting from the temporary system deactivation. It remains uncertain whether the event was logged in the car’s computer and might require diagnostic clearing at some point, but for immediate purposes, everything returned to normal.
Overall, this experience provided valuable insights into the Maserati Ghibli SQ4’s inherent handling characteristics and the significant role of electronic safety systems in shaping its on-road behavior. Beyond its performance, the Ghibli SQ4’s auditory experience is undeniably captivating. The engine and exhaust note contribute significantly to the overall driving pleasure, adding another layer to its appeal. The Ghibli SQ4 proved to be a capable and rewarding vehicle both with and without its electronic aids engaged, showcasing its versatility and inherent sporting nature.
