2007 Mercedes CLS-Class Owner's Manual - Page 92

Safety and Security Driving safety systems Driving safety systems In this section you will find information on the following driving safety systems: ABS (Antilock Brake System) Adaptive Brake BAS (Brake Assist System) EBP (Electronic Brake Proportioning) ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) Warning! Warning! ABS Braking 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 yields the advantages provided by the ABS, namely braking power and the ability to steer the vehicle. The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving. i In winter operation, the maximum effectiveness of the ABS, BAS, ESP® and Adaptive Brake is only achieved with winter tires ( page 327) or snow chains as required. The - indicator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on when you switch on the ignition. It goes out when the engine is running. G G The following factors increase the risk of accidents: Excessive speed, especially in turns Wet and slippery road surfaces Following another vehicle too closely The ABS, BAS, ESP® and Adaptive Brake cannot reduce this risk. Always adjust your driving style to the prevailing road and weather conditions. Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pumping the brake pedal defeats the purpose of the ABS and significantly reduces braking effectiveness. The Antilock Brake System (ABS) regulates the brake pressure so that the wheels do not lock during braking. This allows you to maintain the ability to steer your vehicle. The ABS is functional above a speed of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent of road surface conditions. On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will respond even with light brake pressure. 91