Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2008 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 93)

92
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
For more information, see the
“Practical hints” section (
୴ page 342) and
( ୴ page 367).
Warning!
G
Never switch off the ESP ® when you see the
ABS/ESP ® warning lamp v flashing in
the instrument cluster. In this case proceed
as follows:
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
capabilities of an ESP ® equipped vehicle
must never be exploited in a reckless or
dangerous manner which could jeopardize
the user’s safety or the safety of others.
! Because the ESP ® operates automatically,
the engine must be shut off (SmartKey in starter
switch position 0 or 1or 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
otherwise seriously damage the brake system.
The ESP ® will only function properly if you use
wheels of the recommended tire size
(
୴ page 449).
i The cruise control and the Distronic*
system deactivate automatically when the ESP ®
is in operation ( ୴ page 225).