Mercedes-Benz 2007 C 230, Operator'S Manual

Page: 86 / 441

85
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
spinning or if the vehicle starts to skid. By
applying the 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
instrument cluster flashes when the ESP
®
is engaged.
The ESP
®
warning lamp
v
in the
instrument cluster comes on when you
switch on the ignition. 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
instrument cluster. In this case, proceed as
follows:
앫
While driving off, apply as little throttle
as possible.
앫
While driving, ease up on the accelera-
tor.
앫
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 by the exist-
ing road and tire conditions. 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 dan-
gerous manner which could jeopardize the
user’s safety or the safety of others.