A system and method that warn a vehicle driver by shaking or dithering the steering wheel that one or more active control systems on the vehicle is providing active control. The system includes an AFS actuator for providing a steering assist signal for stability control purposes, and a VES actuator for providing resistance against turning of the steering wheel. The system also includes a controller for causing the AFS actuator to shake the steering wheel if the active control is active and for causing the VES controller to apply and release tension to the steering wheel if the steering wheel is turned and the active control is active. The controller may increase the shaking of the steering wheel as the amount of the active control increases.