Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 2008 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 94)

93
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
For more information, see the “Practical
hints” section (
୴ page 345) and
( ୴ page 363).
Electronic traction system
The electronic traction system is a
component of ESP
® .
The electronic traction system improves
the vehicle’s ability to utilize available
traction, especially under slippery road
conditions by applying the brakes to a
spinning wheel.
Except CLS 63 AMG:
When you switch off the ESP
® , the
electronic traction system is still enabled.
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.
!
The ESP ® will only function properly if you
use wheels of the recommended tire size
(
୴ page 438).
! Because the ESP ® operates automatically,
the engine and the 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 axle
raised
Active braking action through the ESP ® may oth-
erwise seriously damage the brake system.
Warning!
G
If you are driving too fast, the electronic
traction system cannot reduce the risk of an
accident.
The electronic traction system cannot pre-
vent the natural laws of physics from acting
on the vehicle.