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The ESC is switched on automatically when the engine is started.
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- Fig. 196 Centre console with
button
The ESC operates in several levels. Depending on which level is selected, the stabilising function of the ESC is restricted or switched off, and the vehicle is stabilised to a greater or lesser degree.
In the following special situations, it may be advisable to switch on off-road mode to allow a certain amount of wheelspin:
- Rocking the car backwards and forwards to free it
- Driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces
- Driving with snow chains
- Driving on rough terrain when much of the car s weight is lifted off the wheels (axle articulation)
- Braking on unsurfaced tracks when driving downhill
For your own safety you should switch off the off-road mode in time.
ESC levels
Off-road mode on | ESC/ASR off | Off-road mode off or ESC/ASR on | |
Characteristics | The stabilising function of the ESC and traction control system (ASR) is restricted ►. | The stabilisation function is no longer available ►. ESC and traction control system (ASR) are switched off. | The stabilising function of the ESC and traction control system (ASR) is fully available again. |
Operation | Press the button briefly. | Press the button for longer than 3 seconds. | Press the button again. |
Indicator lamps |  lights up. | and      light up. | goes out, or and go out. |
Driver messages | Stabilisation control (ESC): offroad. Warning! Restricted stability | Stabilisation control (ESC): switched off. Warning! Restricted stability | Stabilisation control (ESC): switched on |
You should switch on the off-road mode or switch off the ESC/traction control system (ASR) only if your driving ability and the traffic conditions allow you to do so safely – danger of skidding!
- The stabilising function is restricted when off-road mode is switched on. The driven wheels may start to spin, causing the vehicle to lose grip, in particular on slippery or wet roads.
- When the ESC/traction control system (ASR) is switched off, the vehicle will not be stabilised.