2006 Mercedes C-Class Owner's Manual - Page 91

Safety and Security Driving safety systems ! Vehicles without 4MATIC: Because of the ESP®'s automatic operation, the engine must be turned off (SmartKey in starter switch 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® may otherwise seriously damage the brake system. For information on vehicles with 4MATIC, see "Four wheel electronic traction system (4MATIC) with the ESP®" ( page 92). For more information, see "Practical hints" ( page 354) and ( page 360). Switching off the ESP® Warning! Warning! G The ESP® cannot prevent the natural laws of 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 capabilities of an ESP® equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of others. G The ESP® should not be switched off during normal driving other than in the circumstances described below. Disabling of the system will reduce vehicle stability in standard driving maneuvers. Do not switch off the ESP® when a Minispare wheel is mounted. i The ESP® will only function properly if you use wheels of the recommended tire size ( page 432). To improve the vehicle's traction, turn off the ESP® in driving situations where it 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 90