How to Locate the ESP Switch in an E220

You might want to switch ESP off sometimes -- when using snow chains, for example.

Mercedes-Benz vehicles, including the E-series, can be fitted with an electronic stability program, called ESP. The ESP system detects that the vehicle is deviating from the direction that the ESP computer believes that the driver wants to go and brakes one or more wheels to stabilize the car. Engine output can also be changed briefly. ESP works well when accelerating on wet roads and can also help when braking. It's on by default, but sometimes you might want to switch it off, for example, when you're using snow chains. It's easy to locate the ESP switch in your Mercedes.

Instructions

1. Start the car's engine, and the press the left or right arrow on the steering wheel to choose the "DriveAssist" menu.

2. Press the up or down arrow to choose "ESP."

3. Press "OK" twice to deactivate ESP. The "ESP Off" warning lamp will come on. The warning lamp is represented by the image of a skidding car and the text "Off." Press "OK" again to reactivate ESP. The warning light will extinguish.

Tips & Warnings

• When ESP is off, ease up on the accelerator.

• Never turn ESP off when you see the ESP warning lamp illuminated. It can cause the car to skid.

References

• Mercedes-Benz: 2011 E-Series Owner's Manual