2008 Mercedes R-Class Owner's Manual - Page 100

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) BAS (Brake Assist System) ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) EBP (Electronic Brake Proportioning) Warning! ABS 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 driving systems described in this section cannot reduce these risks or prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle. Always adjust your driving style to the prevailing road and weather conditions and keep a safe distance to other road users and objects on the street. Warning! G 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. respond even to light brake pressure. The - indicator lamp in the instrument cluster ( page 26) comes on when you switch on the ignition. It goes out when the engine is running. ness driving systems described in this section is only achieved with winter tires ( page 398) or snow chains as required. i In winter operation, the maximum effective- On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will 99