Operator`s manual

dangerous manner which could jeopardize
the user’s safety or the safety of others.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP
®
)
Your vehicle is equipped with the
Electronic Stability Program (ESP
®
). The
ESP
®
is operational as soon as the engine
is running and it 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 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 d in the
instrument cluster flashes when the ESP
®
is
engaged.
The ESP
®
warning lamp d in the
instrument cluster comes on when you
switch on the ignition. It goes out when the
engine is running.
Depending on the driving situation, the
ESP
®
R
reduces the speed
R
selectively brakes individual wheels
R
equalizes the speed of the driven wheels
R
stabilizes the vehicle when braking
R
assists you in evasive maneuvers on all
roads
G
Warning!
If the ESP
®
warning lamp d in the
instrument cluster flashes, proceed as
follows:
R
While 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.
G
Warning!
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 turned
off (ignition switched off) when the
parking brake is being tested on a brake
test dynamometer. Active braking action
through the ESP
®
may otherwise seriously
damage the brake system which is not
covered by the smart Limited Warranty.
i
The ESP
®
will only function properly if
you use wheels of the recommended tire
size (Y page 206).
48
Driving safety systems
>> Safety.