Mercedes-Benz 2005 E -Class Wagon Automobile User Manual


 
95
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
Note on driving with the SBC
ț Following extended periods of only
minor loads to your brake system, you
should occasionally apply the brakes
when traveling at high speeds. This
improves the grip of the brake pads.
ț After driving on wet or snow-covered
roads, you should apply your brakes
firmly before parking your vehicle. This
produces heat which serves to dry the
brake disks and help prevent corro-
sion.
ț On long and steep grades, shift to a
lower gear (gear range 1, 2, or 3) to
prevent the brakes from overheating
and to reduce brake wear.
ț After hard braking, it is advisable to
drive on for some time so that the air
stream will cool down the brakes fast-
er.
ț Only Mercedes-Benz approved compo-
nents (e.g. brake pads) should be
installed on your vehicle. Brake pads
not approved by Mercedes-Benz may
impair the safety of your vehicle.
Four wheel electronic traction system
(4MATIC) with the ESP
Models with all-wheel-drive only.
The 4MATIC improves vehicle’s ability to
use available traction, e.g. during winter
operation in mountains under snowy
conditions, by applying power to all four
wheels.
Warning! G
Be very careful not to endanger other road
users when you apply the brakes.
Warning! G
If you see the ESP warning lamp v flash-
ing in the speedometer, proceed as follows:
ț While driving off, apply as little throttle
as possible
ț While driving, ease up on the accelera-
tor
ț 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.