2008 Mercedes SLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 281

Operation Driving instructions Power assistance Brakes Warning! G Warning! G ! Because the ESP® operates automatically, the engine must be turned off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1) when the parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer the vehicle is being towed with the front axle raised Active braking action through the ESP® may otherwise seriously damage the brake system. With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle. 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. 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. To help prevent brake disc 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. 280