Mercedes-Benz 2006 S 430 4MATIC Automobile User Manual


 
81
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
For more information, see “Practical hints”
section (
page 340).
ESP
®
The Electronic Stability Program (ESP
®
) is
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.
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
®
is
especially useful while driving off and on
wet or slippery road surfaces. The ESP
®
also stabilizes the vehicle during braking
maneuvers.
The ESP
®
warning lamp v in the instru-
ment cluster flashes when the ESP
®
is en-
gaged.
The ESP
®
warning lamp v in the instru-
ment cluster comes on when you switch on
the ignition (
page 34). It goes out when
the engine is running.
Warning! G
The BAS cannot prevent the natural laws of
physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can
it increase braking efficiency beyond that af-
forded by the condition of the vehicle brakes
and tires or the traction afforded. The BAS
cannot prevent accidents, including those
resulting from excessive speed in turns, fol-
lowing another vehicle too closely, or hydro-
planing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful
driver can prevent accidents. The capabili-
ties of a BAS equipped vehicle must never
be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner which could jeopardize the user’s
safety or the safety of others.
Warning! G
Never switch off the ESP
®
when you see the
ESP
®
warning lamp v flashing in the in-
strument cluster. In this case proceed as fol-
lows:
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 result-
ing from excessive speed.