2009 Mercedes E-Class Owner's Manual - Page 165

Controls in detail Driving systems The responsibility for the vehicle's speed, distance to the preceding vehicle and, most importantly, brake operation to ensure a safe stopping distance, always remains with the driver. Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by the Distronic. This could result in wrong or missing distance warnings. G Warning! The Distronic requires familiarity with its operational characteristics. We strongly recommend that you review the following information carefully before operating the system. G Warning! The Distronic cannot take road and traffic conditions into account. Only use the Distronic if the road, weather and traffic conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. G Warning! Use of the Distronic can be dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control. The Distronic does not function in adverse sight and distance conditions. Do not use the Distronic during conditions of fog, heavy rain, snow or sleet. G Warning! The Distronic adaptive cruise control is not a substitute for active driving involvement. It does not react to pedestrians or on stationary objects, nor does it recognize or predict the lane curvature or the movement of preceding vehicles. The Distronic can only apply 20% of the maximum braking power of the vehicle. It is the driver's responsibility at all times to be attentive to the road, weather and traffic conditions. Additionally, the driver must provide the steering, braking and other driving inputs necessary to remain in control of the vehicle. High-frequency sources such as toll stations, speed measuring systems etc. can cause the Distronic system to malfunction. G Warning! The Distronic cannot take weather conditions into account. Switch off the Distronic or do not switch it on if: Rroads are slippery or covered with snow or ice. The wheels could lose traction while braking or accelerating, and the vehicle could skid. Rthe Distronic system sensor cover is dirty or visibility is diminished due to snow, rain or fog, for example. The distance control system functionality could be impaired. Always pay attention to surrounding traffic conditions even while the Distronic is switched on. Otherwise, you may not be able to recognize dangerous situations until it is too late. This could cause an accident in which you and/or others could be injured. G Warning! The "Resume" function should only be operated if the driver is fully aware of the previously set speed and wishes to resume this particular preset speed. Z 163