2009 Mercedes CL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 71

Safety and security Driving safety systems ESP® G Observe Safety notes, see page 65. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) is operational as soon as the engine is running 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 spinning or if the vehicle starts to skid. By applying brakes to individual wheels 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 and steering maneuvers. The ESP® warning lamp v in the instrument cluster comes on when you switch on the ignition. It goes out when the engine is running. The ESP® warning lamp v in the instrument cluster flashes when the ESP® is engaged. G Warning! Never switch off the ESP® when you see the ESP® warning lamp v flashing in the instrument cluster. In this case proceed as follows: RWhen driving off, apply as little throttle as possible. RWhile driving, ease up on the accelerator pedal. RAdapt 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. ! Vehicles with 4MATIC: Only conduct operational or performance tests on a two-axle dynamometer. If such tests are necessary, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. You could otherwise seriously damage the brake system or the transfer case which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. ! Vehicles with 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 start/stop button in position 0 or 1) when the electronic parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer. Active braking action through the ESP® may otherwise seriously damage the brake system which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. ! 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 start/stop button in position 0 or 1) when the electronic parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer or when the vehicle is being towed with one axle raised. Active braking action through the ESP® may otherwise seriously damage the brake system which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. ! The ESP® will only function properly if you use wheels of the recommended tire size Z 69