SMART fortwo coupe Operator's Manual page 50

Driving safety systems
48
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
®
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.
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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,
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the ESP works to stabilize the vehicle. The
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ESP is especially useful while driving off
and on wet or slippery road surfaces. The
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ESP also stabilizes the vehicle during
braking and steering maneuvers.
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The ESP warning lamp d in the
instrument cluster flashes when the ESP
engaged.
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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
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
R
roads
G
Warning!
If the ESP
instrument cluster flashes, proceed as
follows:
®
)
While driving off, apply as little
R
throttle as possible.
®
). The
While driving, ease up on the accelerator
R
pedal.
Adapt your speed and driving style to the
R
prevailing road conditions.
Failure to observe these guidelines could
cause the vehicle to skid.
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The ESP
resulting from excessive speed.
G
Warning!
®
The ESP
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,
®
is
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
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
damage the brake system which is not
covered by the smart Limited Warranty.
i
The ESP
you use wheels of the recommended tire
Y
size (
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warning lamp d in the
cannot prevent accidents
cannot prevent the natural laws of
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operates
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may otherwise seriously
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will only function properly if
page 206).
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