Clicking the knob resets the device
When I clicked on the knob, the haptic feedback kicked in and immediately resets the ESP. Changing the playHaptic when strain gauge passed a certain threshold to false (motor_task.cpp file) seems to solve this issue.

This also happens in the 'on/off strong detent' mode but i have no clue why it keeps resetting.
anyone face the same issue
For me, that sounds like you are having problems with the power supply when the motor draws a lot of power(playing haptic feedback, moving towards a strong detent, possibly hitting an end stop). This can cause the voltage to drop to a certain threshold where it is not enough for the esp32 and that causes it to reboot. You could try to use a different USB port and/or a different cable.