Mercedes-Benz 2003 M-Class Operator's Manual page 76

Safety and Security
Driving and safety systems
!
The engine must be shut off when
the parking brake is being tested on
a brake test dynamometer.
the vehicle is being towed with the
front axle raised.
Otherwise, the ESP will engage the
brakes and seriously damage the brake
system.
The ESP will only function properly if
you use wheels of the recommended
tire size ( page 279).
LOW RANGE – ESP
During off-road driving a special low range
system for the ESP is operational with
transmission in LOW RANGE mode
( page 118).
In the LOW RANGE mode ESP operates in
a traction improving fashion specifically
adapted for off-road driving. At speeds be-
76
low 27 mph (45 km/h), the ESP assists in
over-/understeering, thus improving vehi-
cle traction.
Switching off the ESP
Warning!
The ESP should not be switched off during
normal driving other than in the circum-
stances described below. Disabling of the
system will reduce vehicle stability in stan-
dard driving maneuvers.
To improve the vehicle's traction, turn off
the ESP in driving situations where it would
be advantageous to have drive wheels spin
and thus cut into surfaces for better grip
such as:
starting out on slippery surfaces and in
deep snow in conjunction with snow
chains
in sand or gravel
when driving off-road
When the ESP is turned off
engine torque is not limited.
the drive wheels can spin.
This helps the wheels cut into surfaces
for a better grip.
G
!
Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an
extended period with the ESP switched
off. This may cause serious damage to
the drivetrain which is not covered by
the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
i
Turn ESP on immediately if the afore-
mentioned circumstances do not apply
anymore.