Mercedes-Benz R-Class 2009 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 80)

Driving safety systems
78
G Warning!
Never switch off the ESP ® when you see the
ESP ® warning lamp v flashing in the
instrument cluster. In this case proceed as
follows:
R When driving off, apply as little throttle
as possible.
R While driving, ease up on the accelerator
pedal.
R 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 resulting from excessive
speed.
! Only conduct operational or performance
tests on a two-axle dynamometer. If such
tests are necessary, contact an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center. You could
otherwise seriously damage the brake
system or the transfer case which is not
covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.
! Because the ESP ® operates
automatically, 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 the parking
brake is being tested on a brake test
dynamometer. Such testing should be no
longer than 10 seconds.
Active braking action through the ESP
®
may otherwise seriously damage the brake
system which is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
! The ESP ® will only function properly if you
use wheels of the recommended tire size
as specified in the “Technical data” section
of this Operator’s Manual.
i The cruise control switches off
automatically when the ESP ® engages.
For more information, see the “Practical
hints” section (
Y page 306) and
( Y page 346).
Electronic Traction System (4-ETS)
G Observe Safety notes, see
page 75.
The 4-ETS (four-wheel Electronic Traction
System) are components of the ESP
® . The
4-ETS improves the vehicle’s ability to utilize
available traction, especially under slippery
road conditions by applying the brakes to a
spinning wheel. In addition, more power is
transferred to the wheel(s) with traction.
When you switch off the ESP
® , the 4-ETS is
still enabled.
Switching off the ESP ®
G Warning!
The ESP ® should not be switched off during
normal driving other than in the
circumstances described below. Disabling
the system will reduce vehicle stability in
driving maneuvers.
Do not switch off the ESP
® when a spare
wheel is mounted.
To improve the vehicle’s traction, switch off
the ESP
® in driving situations in which it
would be advantageous to have the drive
wheels spin and thus cut into surfaces for
better grip such as:
R when driving with snow chains
R in deep snow
R in sand or gravel
Safety and security