Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2008 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 63)

62
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
ESP ®
The Electronic Stability Program (ESP ® ) is
operational as soon as the engine is run-
ning and monitors the vehicle’s traction
(force of adhesive friction between the
tires and the road surface) and handling.
The ESP ® recognizes when a wheel is spin-
ning or if the vehicle starts to skid. By ap-
plying brakes to the appropriate wheel and
by limiting the engine output, the ESP
®
works to stabilize the vehicle. The ESP ® is
especially useful while driving off and on
wet or slippery road surfaces. The ESP
®
also stabilizes the vehicle during braking
and steering maneuvers.
The ESP ® warning lamp v in the instru-
ment cluster flashes when the ESP ® is en-
gaged.
The ESP ® warning lamp v in the instru-
ment cluster comes on when you switch on
the ignition (
୴ page 82). It goes out when
the engine is running.
Warning!
G
Never switch off the ESP ® when you see the
ESP ® warning lamp v flashing in the in-
strument cluster. In this case proceed as fol-
lows:
ț While driving off, apply as little throttle
as possible.
ț While driving, ease up on the accelera-
tor.
ț Adapt your speed and driving style to
the prevailing road conditions.
Failure to observe these guidelines could
cause the vehicle to skid.
The ESP ® cannot prevent accidents result-
ing from excessive speed.
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 The cruise control 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 467).