2007 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 71

Safety and Security Driving safety systems The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving. Emergency brake maneuver Keep continuous full pressure on the brake pedal. Warning! Adaptive Brake Lights (S 600 and USA only) Depending on vehicle production date the brake lamps flash in quick intervals while you are braking in order to signal to cars behind you that you are braking strongly at a speed of more than 30 mph (50 km/h) you are braking with the aid of BAS or BAS Plus* If you bring the car to a complete stop by hard braking at a speed of more than 40 mph (70 km/h), the hazard warning flasher automatically comes on as soon as the vehicle is at a standstill. While the vehicle is stationary, the brake lamps are continuously lit up. Once you drive faster than 6 mph (10 km/h) afterward, the hazard warning flasher goes out. beyond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded. The ABS cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of others. G When the ABS is malfunctioning, the BAS, BAS Plus*, ESP® and ETS are also switched off. When the ABS is malfunctioning, the wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability and extending the braking distance. For more information, see "Practical hints" ( page 544). Adaptive Brake Adaptive Brake provides a high level of braking safety as well as increased braking comfort. Warning! G The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or steering efficiency 70