Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2008 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 90)

89
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
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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)
ț Electro-hydraulic brake system
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 re-
spond even to light brake pressure.
Warning!
G
The following factors increase the risk of ac-
cidents:
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 effective-
ness of the ABS, the BAS, the ESP ® , and the
electro-hydraulic brake system is only achieved
with winter tires (
୴ page 327) 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.