Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class 2008 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 85)

84
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
In this section you will find information on
the following driving safety systems:
ț ABS (Antilock Brake System)
ț BAS (Brake Assist System)
ț ESP ® (Electronic Stability Program)
ABS
The Antilock Brake System (ABS) regulates
the brake pressure so that the wheels do
not lock during braking. This allows you to
maintain the ability to steer your vehicle.
The ABS is functional above a speed of
approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) indepen-
dent of road surface conditions.
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will
respond even to light brake pressure.
The - indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster ( ୴ page 26) comes on when you
switch on the ignition. It goes out when the
engine is running.
Warning!
G
The following factors increase the risk of
accidents:
ț Excessive speed, especially in turns
ț Wet and slippery road surfaces
ț Following another vehicle too closely
The driving systems described in this sec-
tion cannot reduce these risks or prevent
the natural laws of physics from acting on
the vehicle.
Always adjust your driving style to the
prevailing road and weather conditions and
keep a safe distance to other road users and
objects on the street.
i
In winter operation, the maximum
effectiveness of the ABS, the BAS, and the ESP ®
is only achieved with winter tires ( ୴ page 335)
or snow chains as required.
Warning!
G
Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm,
steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pump-
ing the brake pedal defeats the purpose of
the ABS and significantly reduces braking
effectiveness.