Esp - Mercedes-Benz 2008 C-Class Operator's Manual

Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
®

ESP

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP
operational as soon as the engine is run-
ning and 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 spin-
ning or if the vehicle starts to skid. By ap-
plying brakes to the appropriate wheel and
by limiting the engine output, the ESP
works to stabilize the vehicle. The ESP
especially useful while driving off and on
wet or slippery road surfaces. The ESP
also stabilizes the vehicle during braking
and steering maneuvers.
® warning lamp v in the instru-
The ESP
ment cluster flashes when the ESP
gaged.
® warning lamp v in the instru-
The ESP
ment cluster comes on when you switch on
the ignition ( page 82). It goes out when
the engine is running.
62
Warning!
®
) is
Never switch off the ESP
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warning lamp v flashing in the in-
ESP
strument cluster. In this case proceed as fol-
lows:
While driving off, apply as little throttle
as possible.
While driving, ease up on the accelera-
® tor.
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is
Adapt your speed and driving style to
the prevailing road conditions.
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Failure to observe these guidelines could
cause the vehicle to skid.
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The ESP cannot prevent accidents result-
ing from excessive speed.
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is en-
G
Warning!
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when you see the 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, attentive, and
skillful driver can prevent accidents. The ca-
pabilities of an ESP
never be exploited in a reckless or danger-
ous manner which could jeopardize the us-
er's safety or the safety of others.
i
The cruise control is switched off when the
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ESP engages.
i
The ESP
use wheels of the recommended tire size
( page 467).
G
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cannot prevent the natural laws of
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equipped vehicle must
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will only function properly if you
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