2008 Mercedes SL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 270
2008 Mercedes SL-Class Manual
Page 270 highlights
Operation Driving instructions ! Because the ESP® operates automatically, the engine must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1or KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button in position 0 or 1) when the parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer. Active braking action through the ESP may otherwise seriously damage the brake system. ® Warning! G Make sure not to endanger any other road users when carrying out these braking maneuvers. All checks and service work on the brake system should be carried out by qualified technicians only. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only install brake pads and brake fluid recommended by Mercedes-Benz. Warning! To help prevent brake disk corrosion after driving on wet road surfaces (particularly salted roads), it is advisable to brake the vehicle with considerable force prior to parking. The heat generated serves to dry the brakes. If your brake system is normally only subjected to moderate loads, you should occasionally test the effectiveness of the brakes by applying above-normal braking pressure at higher speeds. This will also enhance the grip of the brake pads. Refer to the description of the Brake Assist System (BAS) ( page 91). Brake pad wear or a leak in the system may be the reason for low brake fluid in the reservoir. The brake fluid level in the reservoir may be too low or the electro-hydraulic brake system may be malfunctioning if the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster comes on and an acoustic warning sounds although the parking brake is released ( page 345). Observe additional messages in the multifunction display that may appear, see ( page 377) through ( page 382). Have the brake system inspected immediately. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. G If other than recommended brake pads are installed, or other than recommended brake fluid is used, the braking properties of the vehicle can be degraded to an extent that safe braking is substantially impaired. This could result in an accident. Be certain to read and observe the warning notices on brake pad replacement ( page 96). ! When driving down long and steep grades, relieve the load on the brakes by shifting into a lower gear to use the engine's braking power. This helps prevent overheating of the brakes and reduces brake pad wear. 269