Mercedes-Benz 2003 SLK 230 Kompressor Operator's Manual page 70

Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
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
sand or gravel
70
The switch is located on the center con-
sole.
G
1 ESP off
2 ESP on
Press upper half 1 of the ESP switch
until the ESP warning lamp v in the
speedometer lights up.
The ESP is deactivated.
If one or more drive wheels are spinning,
the ESP warning lamp v in the speed-
ometer flashes, regardless of the speed.
Traction control brakes a spinning wheel
even when ESP is deactivated.
ESP always operates when you are brak-
ing, even when it has been deactivated.
!
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.
Warning!
When the ESP warning lamp
v
illuminated continuously, the ESP is
switched off.
Adapt your speed and driving to the prevail-
ing road conditions and to the non-operating
status of the ESP.
Switching on the ESP
Press lower half 2 of the ESP switch.
The ESP warning lamp v in the
speedometer goes out. You are now
again in normal driving mode.
G
is