2002 Mercedes CLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 217

Instruments and controls Driving systems Notes: Operation Driving Instrument cluster display Practical hints Car care Technical data Index 214 Brake assist system (BAS) Warning! BAS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking efficiency beyond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded. The BAS cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or aquaplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of a BAS equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of others. The BAS is designed to maximize the vehicle's braking capability during emergency braking maneuvers by having maximum power boost applied to the brakes more quickly in emergency braking conditions than might otherwise be afforded solely by the driver's braking style. This can help reduce braking distances over what ordinary driving and braking style might do. The BAS complements the antilock brake system (ABS). If the engine does not brake the vehicle sufficiently while driving on a downgrade, the speed you set on the cruise control may be exceeded. In this case the automatic transmission shifts down (max. to 3rd gear) to maintain the set cruise control speed by using the engine's braking power. As soon as the grade eases, the automatic transmission shifts up again dependent on the selector lever position. Nevertheless, in some cases you may have to step on the brake pedal to slow down. In this case the cruise control is switched off. Use the lever to resume the previously set speed.