Mercedes-Benz 2008 C-Class Operator's Manual page 64

!
Vehicles without 4MATIC:
®
Because the ESP operates automatically, the
engine and ignition must be shut off (SmartKey
in starter switch position 0 or 1 or KEYLESS-GO
(Canada only) start/stop button* in position 0
or 1) when
the parking brake is being tested on a brake
test dynamometer
the vehicle is being towed with the front axle
raised
Active braking action through the ESP
erwise seriously damage the brake system.
For information on vehicles with 4MATIC, see
"Four wheel electronic traction system (4MATIC)
®
with the ESP " (e page 65).
For more information, see "Practical hints"
section ( page 380) and ( page 387).
Electronic traction system
The electronic traction system is a compo-
®
nent of ESP .
The electronic traction system improves
the vehicle's ability to utilize available trac-
tion, especially under slippery road condi-
tions by applying the brakes to a spinning
wheel.
When you switch off the ESP
®
may oth-
tronic traction system is still enabled.
Warning!
If you are driving too fast, the electronic
traction system cannot reduce the risk of an
accident.
The electronic traction system cannot pre-
vent the natural laws of physics from acting
on the vehicle.
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.
®
, the elec-
Do not switch off the ESP
Minispare wheel is mounted.
G
To improve the vehicle's traction, switch
®
off the ESP
would be advantageous to have the drive
wheels spin and thus cut into surfaces for
better grip such as:
when driving with snow chains
in deep snow
in sand or gravel
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
®
G
®
when a
in driving situations where it
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