How to Make an ESP32 RC Car DIY in 10 Steps – Complete Guide

Introduction

Ever dreamed of building your own remote-controlled car that you can drive using your smartphone? With the ESP32 microcontroller, that dream is totally possible—and affordable too! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned tinkerer, this guide will walk you through the process of making your very own ESP32 WiFi-controlled RC car using simple components and some DIY spirit.

The ESP32 is a powerful microcontroller with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, making it perfect for IoT and robotics projects. Its ability to host a mini web server and control peripherals like motors in real-time makes it ideal for building a ESP32 RC car.

Tools and Components Needed

Before you jump into building, let’s round up all the essentials.

Microcontroller: ESP32 Board

Your car's brain. It controls everything and connects to your smartphone over WiFi.

Motor Driver Module (L298N or L9110S)

This component drives the motors based on signals from the ESP32.

DC Motors and Wheels

Two geared motors are usually enough for basic forward, backward, and turning motions.

Power Supply (Battery)

A 7.4V Li-ion battery or 2x18650 battery pack will keep your car running.

Chassis Frame

A simple 2WD or 4WD chassis frame to mount everything.

Jumper Wires and Breadboard

To connect everything without soldering.

Smartphone with WiFi

To control the car via a web interface hosted by ESP32.

Step-by-Step Guide to Build ESP32 RC Car

Let’s break it down into digestible steps.

Step 1: Gather All Components

Lay out your ESP32 board, motors, motor driver, chassis, jumper wires, battery, and other items on a clean work surface.

Step 2: Set Up the Chassis

Assemble your chassis and mount the DC motors securely on it using screws or glue.

Step 3: Connect the DC Motors

Attach the wires from the motors to the motor driver. Usually, Motor A and Motor B pins are used for two motors.

Step 4: Interface Motor Driver with ESP32

Use jumper wires to connect IN1, IN2, IN3, and IN4 from the motor driver to digital pins on ESP32 (e.g., D26, D27, D14, D12).

Step 5: Power Supply Setup

Connect the battery to the motor driver’s power input. Also, power the ESP32 either through VIN or an onboard voltage regulator.

Step 6: Wiring and Pin Configuration

Double-check all wiring. Make sure ground (GND) is shared across all components to avoid glitches.

Step 7: Uploading the Code to ESP32

Write or paste the control code in Arduino IDE, select the correct board and COM port, then upload it to your ESP32.

Step 8: Setting Up WiFi Control

The ESP32 creates a web server. You connect your phone to the ESP32’s WiFi hotspot and open a browser to control it.

Step 9: Testing and Calibration

Put the car on a flat surface and test forward, backward, left, and right directions. Adjust motor direction in code if needed.

Step 10: Final Assembly and Enclosure

Secure all components with glue, tape, or screws. You can also 3D print a casing to make it look cooler and protect the electronics.

Coding the ESP32 for RC Car

Let’s break down the code structure.

Code Structure Overview

Setup for pins and WiFi

• Setup for pins and WiFi

HTTP server for the web interface

• HTTP server for the web interface

HTML buttons for directional control

• HTML buttons for directional control

Logic to drive motors

• Logic to drive motors

WiFi Connection Logic

The ESP32 either creates a soft AP (Access Point) or connects to your router. Soft AP is easier for beginners.

Motor Control Logic

When you click a button on the web page, the ESP32 receives an HTTP request and drives the motors accordingly.

Using Web Interface as Remote

You just need a browser—no app required. That’s the beauty of it.

How WiFi Control Works

Understanding the Web Server on ESP32

The ESP32 hosts a simple HTML page. Each button on the page sends a command via a GET request.

Smartphone as Remote Controller

Just connect to the ESP32’s WiFi, type in the IP address (e.g., 192.168.4.1), and you’re in control.

Real-time Commands over WiFi

Latency is minimal if you're close to the car. Ideal for indoor use.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

WiFi Not Connecting

Check if the ESP32 is broadcasting a network. If not, reset the board and check your code.

Motors Not Responding

Check motor driver connections. Test with direct battery power to ensure motors work.

Power Fluctuations

Use a dedicated battery for motors and power ESP32 separately if you face resets during movement.

Tips to Enhance Your ESP32 RC Car

Add a Camera for FPV

Use an ESP32-CAM to stream live video and experience first-person driving.

Use Li-ion Battery Pack

Longer battery life and better power supply than alkaline batteries.

Integrate Sensor Modules

Want to go autonomous? Add ultrasonic sensors for obstacle avoidance.