Esp - Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Operator's Manual

Safety and Security
Driving safety systems

ESP

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
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 spin-
ning or if the vehicle starts to skid. By ap-
plying brakes to the appropriate wheel and
by limiting engine output, the ESP works to
stabilize the vehicle. The ESP is especially
useful while driving off and on wet or slip-
pery road surfaces.
The ABS/ESP warning lamp v in the in-
strument cluster ( page 23) flashes when
the ESP is engaged.
The ABS/ESP warning lamp v in the in-
strument cluster ( page 23) comes on
when you turn the SmartKey in the starter
switch to position 2 or press the
KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button twice. It
goes out when the engine is running.
78
Warning!
Never switch off the ESP when you see the
v
ABS/ESP warning lamp flashing in the
instrument cluster. In this case proceed as
follows:
While driving off, apply as little throttle
as possible.
While driving, ease up on the accelera-
tor.
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 ca-
pabilities of an ESP equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or danger-
ous manner which could jeopardize the us-
er's safety or the safety of others.
i
Distronic* is switched off when the ESP
is engaged.
G