2001 SLK 230. I can’t figure this one out. Really strange. I start this car up, cold or warm, and it drives normally, great power. That is— as long as I don’t give it more than 3/4 gas pedal… if I do, it goes into “low torque protection mode” (my terminology). Power drops off precipitously, and the light may or may not come on. Manipulating the ESP switch seems to do nothing.
Also, and even more disturbing— about once a day I’m merrily driving down the road, and suddenly! A split-second flash of a red or yellow light on my cluster (literally a split second) and it feels like the right rear brake instantly locks up for just a second, and wants to kick the rear of the car to one side. Disconcerting! Anytime this happens, it also goes into “low torque mode” again. It generally stays in low power mode till I shut it off and drive it next time. But not always! Occasionally, I get power back after a few miles. What the heck is up with this car!?!