Mercedes-Benz 2006 CL 500 - Manual (Page 84)

83
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
For more information, see “Practical hints”
(
୴ page 332).
Switching off the ESP ®
To improve the vehicle’s traction, switch
off the ESP
® in driving situations where it
would be advantageous to have the drive
wheels spin and thus cut into surfaces for
better grip such as:
ț when driving with snow chains
ț in deep snow
ț in sand or gravel
Warning!
G
The ESP ® cannot prevent the natural laws of
physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can
it increase the traction afforded. The ESP ®
cannot prevent accidents, including those
resulting from excessive speed in turns, or
hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and
skillful driver can prevent accidents. The ca-
pabilities of an ESP ® equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or danger-
ous manner which could jeopardize the us-
er’s safety or the safety of others.
i
Distronic* is switched off when the
ESP
® engages.
i
The ESP ® will only function properly if
you use wheels of the recommended
tire size (
୴ page 410).
!
Because of the ESP’s ® automatic oper-
ation, the engine and ignition must be
shut off (SmartKey in starter switch
position 0 or 1 or KEYLESS-GO*
start/stop button in position 0 or 1)
when
ț the parking brake is being tested on
a brake test dynamometer
ț the vehicle is being towed with the
front/rear axle raised
Active braking action through the ESP ®
may otherwise seriously damage the
brake system.
Warning!
G
The ESP ® should not be switched off during
normal driving other than in the circum-
stances described below. Disabling of the
system will reduce vehicle stability in stan-
dard driving maneuvers.
i
Distronic* cannot be activated when
the ESP
® has been switched off.