2001 Mercedes C-Class Owner's Manual - Page 267

Instruments and controls Driving systems Operation Driving Instrument cluster display Practical hints Car care Technical data Index 258 At the instant one of the wheels is about to lock up, a slight pulsation can be felt in the brake pedal, indicating that the ABS is in the regulating mode. Keep firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal while experiencing the pulsation. Continuous steady brake pedal pressure results in applying the advantages of the ABS, namely braking power and ability to steer the vehicle. In the case of an emergency brake maneuver keep continuous full pressure on the brake pedal. In this manner only can the ABS be most effective. On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will respond even with light brake pedal pressure because of the increased likelihood of locking wheels. The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving. Antilock brake system (ABS) Warning! Do not pump the brake pedal, rather use firm, steady brake pedal pressure. Pumping the brake pedal defeats the purpose for ABS and significantly reduces braking effectiveness. Important! The ABS improves steering control of the vehicle during hard braking maneuvers. The ABS prevents the wheels from locking up above a vehicle speed of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent of road surface conditions.