Mercedes-Benz 2003 E -Class Wagon - Manual (Page 232)

229 Driving systems
Technical
data
Instruments
and controls
Operation Driving
Instrument
cluster display
Practical hints Car care Index
Four wheel electronic traction system (4MATIC)
with electronic stability program (ESP)
(Model with 4MATIC All Wheel Drive)
The 4MATIC improves vehicle’s ability to use available
traction, e.g. during winter operation in mountains
under snowy conditions, by applying power to all four
wheels.
Important!
If the ESP warning lamp flashes:
• during take-off, apply as little throttle as possible,
• while driving, ease up on the accelerator.
Adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road
conditions.
Caution!
Operational tests with the engine running can only be
conducted on a 2-axle dynamometer. Otherwise the ESP
will immediately be engaged and will apply the brakes
to the spinning wheels.
The engine must be shut off (electronic key in steering
lock position 0 or 1):
• if the the vehicle is towed with one axle raised (only
applicable to vehicles without 4MATIC, see also
page 294).
• when testing the parking brake on a brake test
dynamometer (vehicles with 4MATIC should only be
tested on a two-axle dynamometer).
The warning lamp in the speedometer blinks at any
speed as soon as one tire loses traction.
Note:
In winter operation, the maximum effectiveness of the
4MATIC is only achieved with Mercedes-Benz
recommended M+S rated radial-ply tires and /or snow
chains.