2000 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 270

Distance warning function Even if Distronic is deactivated, the distance to the vehicle ahead continues to be measured, see page 269 for multifunction display. The Distronic lamp in the speedometer dial illuminates to advise the driver of a situation which under normal braking conditions and dry surfaces should have been addressed by the driver. The distance notification function can be activated separately, see page 267. It operates when driving at speeds above approximately 25 mph (Canada: 30 km/h). When recognizing a stationary obstacle or a slower vehicle moving in the vehicle's path and the danger of a collision exists, the distance warning lamp in the speedometer dial lights up and simultaneously a continuous warning sounds. Note: Model S 55 AMG only: Distance notification function is deactivated if the vehicle speed exceeds approximately 160 mph (260 km/h). Important! With the Distronic switched off, only the distance notification function operates, meaning the vehicle does not slow down. Warning! If the distance warning lamp in the speedometer dial lights up while driving and a continuous warning sounds, immediate attention on the part of the driver is required. As required by the traffic situation, apply the service brakes and navigate around a possible obstacle. However, do not drive by relying on the distance notification function as that will result in an emergency braking application which, especially depending on road surface conditions and driver reaction, will not always be able to avoid a collision. Important! Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by Distronic, which could result in wrong or missing distance warnings. See page 264 for additional driving hints. 267 Driving systems Instruments and controls Operation Driving Instrument cluster display Practical hints Car care Technical data Index