2002 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 251

Instruments and controls Operation Driving Instrument cluster display Practical hints Car care Technical data Index Driving instructions Power assistance Warning! When the engine is not running, the brake and steering systems are without power assistance. Under these circumstances, a much greater effort is necessary to stop or steer the vehicle. Brakes Warning! After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through water deep enough to wet brake components or salty road conditions, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced and increased pedal pressure may be necessary to obtain expected braking effect. Be sure to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front. Resting your foot on the brake pedal will cause excessive and premature wear of the brake pads. It can also result in the brakes overheating thereby significantly reducing their effectiveness. It may not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time to avoid an accident. 248 Excessive use of salt and other snow melting chemicals spread on roads during the winter months may cause a build up of moisture or residue to form on the braking components. This build up or residue could cause light corrosion of the braking components if the vehicle is parked with the brakes cold. Apply steady and even braking pressure when stopping the vehicle to warm up and dry the brake components. Important! Please pay attention to the function of the brake assist system (BAS), see page 277. The condition of the parking brake system is checked each time the vehicle is in the shop for the required maintenance service at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.