2003 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 209

Controls in detail Driving systems The most likely cause for a malfunctioning system is a dirty sensor (located behind the hood grille), especially at times of snow and ice or heavy rain. In such a case, Distronic will switch off, and the message DISTRONIC - CLEAN SENSOR! SEE OPERATOR'S MAN. appears in the multifunc- Distronic regulates only the distance between your vehicle and those directly ahead of it, but does not register stationary objects in the road, e.g.: a stopped vehicle in a traffic jam a disabled vehicle an oncoming vehicle The driver must always be on the alert, observe all traffic and intercede as required by steering or braking the vehicle. Turns and bends tion display. For cleaning and care of the Distronic sensor, see "Cleaning the Distronic* system sensor cover" ( page 285). i Warning! G If the message DISTRONIC - CLEAN SENSOR! SEE OPERATOR'S MAN. disappears during driving and the last speed stored flashes for approximately five seconds, the dirt (e.g. slush) has dissolved; Distronic is again operational. In turns or bends, Distronic may not detect a moving vehicle in front, or it may detect one too soon. This may cause your vehicle to brake late or unexpectedly. Distronic should not be used in snowy or icy road conditions. 209