2003 Mercedes E-Class Owner's Manual - Page 79

Safety and Security Driving safety systems i If the SBC brake system is activated when the brake pedal is first depressed, you may feel a reduced pedal resistance and longer pedal travel than normal. When releasing the pedal, you may also feel the brake pedal pulsate and you may hear a sound which is caused by the activation of the SBC pump. This is normal and not an indication of a malfunction. Pedal travel returns to normal when you release the brake pedal and the sound soon ceases. Warning! G The SBC brake servo assistance switches off automatically when you: turn the key in the starter switch to position 0 or remove the key (after approximately two minutes) lock the vehicle with the SmartKey from outside (after approximately 20 seconds) Note on driving with the SBC Following extended periods of only minor loads to your brake system, you should occasionally apply the brakes when traveling at high speeds. This improves the grip of the brake pads. Warning! Have brake pad replacement and other work on the SBC brake system carried out by qualified technicians only. Contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further information. The SBC brake system must be deactivated prior to working on the system. High pressure is intermittently built up in the system as part of its automatic self-test. In addition, the system is automatically activated when the vehicle is unlocked by remote control, when the driver or passenger door is opened, when the key in the starter switch is turned to position 1, when the brake pedal is depressed or when the parking brake is released. Failure to deactivate the system prior to maintenance will cause brake pistons to extend and brake fluid to leak, which may result in injuries (contusions and acid burns). Extended brake pistons may also cause injury. G Be very careful not to endanger other road users when you apply the brakes. 79